May 20, 10:11 PM
India and China on Monday agreed for early settlement of differences on border perceptions, expand cooperation on trans-border rivers and increase bilateral trade.
The two countries signed eight pacts including an MOU on sharing of information on water flow in river Brahmaputra.
This followed the delegation-level talks between the visiting Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and his Indian counterpart Dr Manmohan Singh in New Delhi on Monday afternoon.
The other pacts are in areas of trade, commerce, agriculture, education, literature, enhancing people to people contacts and providing facilities for Kailash Mansarovar yatris who travel to Tibet.
In his press statement, Dr Singh said that peace and tranquility on the borders are the basis for expansion of ties between New Delhi and Beijing. Stating that economic cooperation constitutes an important part of the bilateral relationship, Dr Singh said the growth potential of the two economies can provide the engine for greater cooperation.
Chinese Premier, in his media interaction, said that he shared the hydrological information with India and the two neighbours are ready to set up communication with regard to water projects.
He stressed that both sides have more common interests than differences.
Briefing newsmen on the delegation level talks between the two sides, Indian Ambassador to China, S. Jayshanker said, the two countries have already exchanged draft proposals of Border cooperation agreement for early settlement. The special representative of both countries will be meeting soon to take the process forward.
Jayshanker also said, the Defence Minister A. K Antony will be visiting China.
Both India and China also agreed to enhance cooperation in maritime security and also agreed to hold the joint military exercises later this year.
A study will also be conducted on the proposed Bangladesh, China, India, Myanmar (BCIM) trade corridor.
