- The 17th round of talks between the Special Representatives of India and China on the Boundary Question, Shri Shivshankar Menon, National Security Advisor and Mr. Yang Jiechi, State Councillor took place in New Delhi on 10-11 February 2014. The talks were held in a candid, friendly and constructive atmosphere.
- The Special Representatives made a positive evaluation of India-China relations in the aftermath of the visit to India by Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and the return visit to China by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in 2013. They agreed that a strong and expanding India-China partnership bodes well for peace and stability in the region and the world.
- Undertaking a holistic review of bilateral relations, the Special Representatives expressed satisfaction that 2014 would be marked as the Year of Friendly Exchanges with a series of economic, cultural and social events in both countries. They stressed the need for continuing the momentum of high-level exchanges and enhancing people-to-people ties. They encouraged the holding of regular dialogues between the two Governments on all bilateral issues, including on counter-terrorism, disarmament & international security and maritime affairs on schedule.
- The Special Representatives continued their discussions on a framework for a resolution of the Boundary Question, the second of a 3-step process earlier agreed to by both sides. This will be based on the Agreement on the Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for the Settlement of the India-China Boundary Question.
- They also discussed the continued maintenance of peace and tranquility in the India-China border areas, the cornerstone of an expanding India-China relationship. The Special Representatives elaborated on possible additional confidence building measures, including the early implementation of the Border Defence Cooperation Agreement. They welcomed the decision to have an early meeting in 2014 of the Annual Defence Dialogue. These measures augur well for building the habit of regular discussions between the two sides which will enhance trust and understanding.
- The discussions also focused on regional and international issues of mutual interest including cooperation in the East Asia Summit process as well as developments in West Asia and Afghanistan. They agreed to expand India-China consultations on such subjects.
- State Councillor Yang Jiechi called on Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh.
New Delhi
February 11, 2014
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