TIANJIN, China — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi clasped Russian President Vladimir Putin’s hand with the gusto of an previous good friend on Monday, breaking into his trademark hearty laughter as the 2 leaders grinned and chuckled.
Chinese language President Xi Jinping stood alongside them, providing a measured smile because the three huddled briefly in dialog earlier than lining up for a gaggle picture.
The casual change got here forward of the opening of the Shanghai Cooperation Group summit in northern China’s port metropolis of Tianjin.
The gathering of Eurasian powers, as soon as considered as a counterweight to U.S. affect in Central Asia, has expanded in each membership and weight on the worldwide stage.
Xi used his opening remarks to name for the rejection of “Chilly Struggle pondering, rival blocs and bullying,” urging member states to strengthen a U.N.-centered worldwide system and transfer towards a extra multipolar world order.
He stated the discussion board ought to push for “a extra simply and balanced international governance system” as geopolitical rivalries intensify. — Companies
