LOC02:45
23:45 GMT
NEW DELHI, Feb 10 (KUNA) -- India and China discussed on Tuesday a host of bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest.
A statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said that Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met his counterpart Executive Vice Foreign Minister of China Ma Zhaoxu as part of the India China Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi and exchanged views on a wide gamut of issues covering bilateral, regional and international affairs.
"Bilateral discussions primarily focussed on the recent progress made in stabilising and rebuilding bilateral ties and ways to take bilateral engagement forward," the statement said.
Both sides stressed the importance of peace and tranquility in the border regions for overall progress in bilateral relations.
Both the leaders reiterated their commitment to implement the guidance provided by their leaders including on the need to proceed from a political and strategic direction to approach issues and concerns related to bilateral trade.
The Indian Foreign Secretary recalled the successful resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and hoped for the continued expansion of the scale of the Yatra.
"Both sides recognised the need for an early conclusion of an updated Air Services Agreement. The two sides agreed to continue to take practical steps for visa facilitation and promote people-to-people contacts," the statement said.
India and China discussed multilateral cooperation, including in the context of India's BRICS Chairship. The Chinese official conveyed that China understands and respects India's aspirations for UNSC membership. (end)
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