1. What event might bring Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping face-to-face again?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping could meet again at the East Asian Summit (EAS) and meetings with the ASEAN countries in Indonesia, following the BRICS summit. The dates under consideration are September 6-7.
2. What is the East Asian Summit (EAS)?
The East Asian Summit (EAS) is an annual forum that brings together leaders from the ASEAN countries and its partners to discuss regional and global issues. It includes discussions on political, security, and economic cooperation.
3. What could Prime Minister Modi's visit signify?
His visit to Jakarta would affirm India's ties with ASEAN countries and emphasize "ASEAN centrality" in India's Indo-Pacific policy. It would also reflect a special gesture towards Indonesia, a member of the "G-20 Troika," which aids India in G-20 negotiations.
4. Why is the ASEAN-India Summit significant?
The ASEAN-India Summit holds importance due to India's Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN. The summit is expected to boost talks regarding reviewing the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the countries.
5. What's the context of their possible meeting?
The military commanders of India and China have been intensifying efforts to resolve the border standoff in Ladakh and de-escalate tensions. A potential meeting between the leaders could have implications for these discussions.
6. How does the U.S. factor into this?
U.S. President Joe Biden will not attend the East Asia Summit; Vice President Kamala Harris will represent the U.S. instead. Biden will be in India for the G-20 Leaders' Summit, focusing on issues like climate change, global conflicts, and multilateral financial institutions.
7. What's the broader significance of such meetings?
Meetings like these provide opportunities for leaders to discuss critical regional and global matters, enhance diplomatic ties, and work towards resolving conflicts or tensions.
8. Could this meeting have an impact on India's foreign policy?
Prime Minister Modi's visit would underscore India's commitment to regional cooperation, strengthen ASEAN-India relations, and contribute to discussions shaping the Indo-Pacific region's geopolitical landscape.
