Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit India on September 12 and 13, 2026, to attend the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, marking his first visit to the country in seven years. China’s Foreign Ministry officially confirmed the visit on Thursday, saying Xi will travel to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The visit is being closely watched as India and China seek to stabilise bilateral relations following years of tensions, particularly after the deadly 2020 border clash. Xi’s last visit to India was in 2019, when he travelled to Mamallapuram for an informal summit with Modi.
Xi Jinping to Attend BRICS Summit in Delhi
India is hosting the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi on September 12-13 as part of its 2026 BRICS chairship. The summit will bring together leaders from BRICS member countries to discuss global governance, economic cooperation and major geopolitical challenges.
Key areas expected to feature during the summit include food and energy security, healthcare, technology, disaster resilience, trade, investment and critical supply chains. The summit is scheduled to conclude with the New Delhi Declaration.
India-China Relations in Focus
Xi’s visit comes at a time when relations between New Delhi and Beijing have shown signs of a cautious improvement. Both countries have taken steps to reduce some of the tensions that emerged after the 2020 border confrontation.
According to Reuters, India has eased some restrictions on Chinese investment in sectors including electronics, capital goods and solar cells. However, significant challenges remain, with regulatory restrictions, visa issues and security concerns continuing to affect business ties between the two countries.
A possible meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi Jinping could therefore become one of the most closely watched events during the BRICS summit. Reuters reported that there was no confirmation at the time of its report about whether the two leaders would hold a bilateral meeting.
Xi Jinping India Visit: Why It Matters
Xi’s return to India after seven years carries considerable diplomatic significance. The visit could provide an opportunity for India and China to discuss unresolved bilateral issues while also strengthening cooperation on trade, investment and regional matters.
With Russian President Vladimir Putin and other BRICS leaders also expected in New Delhi, the summit is likely to become a major diplomatic gathering.