As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his first visit to Beijing in seven years to meet President Xi Jinping, India is facing mounting criticism from the United States over its purchase of discounted Russian oil. Modi, however, has highlighted the recent progress in India-China relations, describing them as “stable, predictable, and constructive,” and key to regional peace and prosperity.

India and China Seek a Reset

Modi’s remarks followed a meeting in New Delhi with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, marking Wang’s first visit to India in three years. Both sides agreed on a series of cooperative measures, including resuming direct flights, easing visa procedures, and boosting trade. Beijing also pledged to supply India with rare earth minerals, fertilizer, and infrastructure equipment.

Easing Tensions, Expanding Trade

Despite lingering border tensions, leaders engaged in what officials mentioned as “candid” discussions and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace along disputed frontiers. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval said bilateral ties have shown “an upward trend” over the past nine months, with borders remaining calm. Confidence-building steps are also in motion: Beijing has relaxed restrictions on urea exports, India has reinstated tourist visas for Chinese nationals, and businesses on both sides are seeking new partnerships.

Washington Targets India’s Russian Oil Deals

The shift towards Beijing comes as Washington steps up criticism of India’s Russian crude imports. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent accused India of “profiteering,” estimating excess profits of $16 billion and suggesting they benefited “some of the richest families in India.” The comments were seen as a veiled reference to Reliance Industries, led by billionaire Mukesh Ambani. Bessent contrasted India’s sharp increase in Russian oil purchases after the Ukraine conflict with China’s more modest rise, while defending the US decision not to impose secondary tariffs on Beijing.

Trade Pressures Test India’s Policy Choices

Further complicating matters, former US President Donald Trump has already imposed 25% tariffs on Indian exports and threatened to raise them to 50% by August 27 unless India curbs Russian imports. Modi, however, has defended India’s energy policy, stressing the need to buy from the most affordable source. He also reaffirmed ties with Moscow, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin as a “friend” during a recent call.

As Modi heads to Beijing, India’s foreign policy remains a careful balancing act, deepening ties with China and Russia while managing criticism and tariff threats from Washington.