India has successfully test-fired an indigenously developed intermediate-range ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead deep into the territory of its geopolitical rival, China, just as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his first visit there in years.

Relations plummeted in 2020 after security forces clashed along the border. The violence, the worst in decades, left 20 Indian soldiers and four Chinese soldiers dead, freezing high-level political engagements.

It follows his meeting China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi in New Delhi this week.Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the "steady progress" made in improving the bilateral relationship with China during his meeting with Beijing's Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday.