Rajnath Singh in China: India’s Assertive Diplomatic Push at SCO Defence Meet

Introduction: A Strategic Return to China

In a significant diplomatic development, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Qingdao, China, on June 25, 2025, to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting. This marks the first high-level visit by an Indian Union Minister to China since the military standoff between the two countries in eastern Ladakh began in 2020. Singh’s visit carries weight not only as a symbol of re-engagement but also as an opportunity for India to assert its vision for global peace, security, and counter-terrorism cooperation on a multilateral platform.

China is hosting the conclave as the current chair of the SCO | NDTV

India’s Message: Peace, Sovereignty, and the Fight Against Terrorism

Ahead of the meeting, Rajnath Singh shared his thoughts on social media, stating his intent to present India’s commitment to peace and security and to call for collective efforts against terrorism. His message underscores a consistent Indian diplomatic position: peace cannot exist without the eradication of terrorism, and global forums like the SCO must reject selective silence on the issue. The emphasis on a unified stance against terrorism is particularly relevant in the context of Pakistan’s history of harboring extremist groups—something Singh is expected to raise diplomatically during bilateral and multilateral sessions.

Operation Sindoor and India’s New Military Posture

The Qingdao visit takes place in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, India’s bold military response in May 2025 targeting multiple terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The airstrikes, which reportedly destroyed nine key terror infrastructure facilities, are seen by defence analysts as one of the most assertive Indian military actions in recent years. The operation was not only a demonstration of India's military capabilities but also a political statement: India will no longer tolerate cross-border terrorism without responding in kind.

In a clear warning to Pakistan, Singh recently remarked that if terrorist attacks were to continue, the consequences would be “disastrous.” He stressed that Operation Sindoor is “not over,” suggesting that India remains in a heightened state of preparedness. This assertiveness is backed by the Indian Army’s recent acquisition of advanced counter-terrorism weaponry, including loitering munitions, drone jammers, and modern radar systems—purchased under new, faster procurement rules designed to reduce red tape and enhance military responsiveness.

The Strategic Significance of the SCO Platform

India’s participation in the SCO is not new, but this year’s meeting holds unique significance. With China as the current chair of the organization, Singh’s presence in Qingdao signals that India is willing to engage constructively, even with adversarial neighbors, provided the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and mutual respect are upheld. It also allows India to expand its influence within the Eurasian security framework, alongside countries like Russia, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan.

Singh is expected to hold bilateral talks with both the Chinese and Russian defence ministers. These discussions will likely address regional security concerns ranging from instability in Afghanistan to narco-trafficking in Central Asia. India’s focus will be on enhancing connectivity and ensuring that all member states adhere to consistent anti-terror frameworks. Singh’s visit, therefore, serves both tactical and strategic objectives: pressing the case against terrorism while preserving India's geopolitical relevance within the region.

Recalibrating Ties with China: A Post-Galwan Reset?

Beyond the SCO agenda, Singh’s visit also opens the door to a possible diplomatic recalibration with China. Since the Galwan clash of 2020, India–China relations have remained tense, marked by stalled talks and military stand-offs. By attending this meeting, Singh signals a willingness to resume dialogue—without compromising on India’s territorial claims or national security interests. While any breakthroughs remain unlikely in the short term, the visit reflects India’s intent to keep channels open, particularly in multilateral settings where optics and influence matter.

A Broader Foreign Policy Context

Singh’s participation aligns with India’s broader foreign policy trajectory under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which emphasizes strategic autonomy, self-reliance in defence, and leadership in multilateral fora. Recent statements by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval during the SCO National Security Advisors' meet also reinforce this vision. Doval strongly opposed the double standards applied by certain nations when dealing with terrorism and called for a united, evidence-based approach to combating extremism.

Prime Minister Modi has further highlighted the significance of indigenous technology and local defence production, noting that Operation Sindoor was powered by Indian-made equipment. This moment has become a showcase for the government’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative in the defence sector.

Conclusion: India’s Reassertion on the Global Stage

Rajnath Singh’s visit to China for the SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting represents more than just another diplomatic event. It is a calculated move to project India’s strategic posture, assert its red lines on terrorism, and engage in dialogue from a position of strength. While geopolitical tensions persist—particularly with China and Pakistan—India’s participation reflects maturity, resilience, and a belief in multilateralism.

By putting forward a clear, uncompromising stance on terrorism and simultaneously advocating for regional cooperation, Singh’s mission in Qingdao encapsulates India’s evolving identity as a global power—strong, sovereign, and committed to peace.

(Sources: NDTV, TOI, The Indian Express)