Border talks: 'India, China committed to resolve boundary issues'

India and China on Friday re-emphasised their commitment to achieve a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution to the India-China boundary question at the earliest.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and his Chinese counterpart State Councillor Yang Jiechi held 20th round of annual boundary negotiations here today.

The official release said the talks were positive and focussed on bringing out the full potential of the closer developmental partnership between the two countries.

"The Special Representatives undertook a comprehensive review of earlier rounds of the talks and agreed that an early settlement of the boundary question serves the fundamental interests of both countries," it further said.

"They re-emphasized their commitment to achieve a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution to the India-China boundary question at an early date. The two sides agreed that pending the final resolution of the boundary question, it is necessary to maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas. In this regard, the Special Representatives exchanged ideas on various confidence building measures," the release added.

The two sides also reviewed the development of India-China bilateral relations and agreed to maintain regular contact and to advance the development of bilateral relations in all areas.

"They underlined the need for the two countries to build on their convergences, while seeking mutually acceptable resolutions of their differences with due respect for each other's sensitivities, concerns and aspirations," the release said.

Bothe the representatives acknowledged that as two large developing countries engaged in their national modernisation, relations between India and China transcend their bilateral dimensions and have significance for peace, stability and development of Asia and the world.

India and China also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated that strong India-China relations were important to the entire world.

In a meeting with Chinese State Councillor Yang Jiechi here today, PM Modi said, "A strong India-China relationship is important not only for the mutual benefit of the people of India and China, but also for the region and the world."

The Chinese envoy met the prime minister at his official residence here.