India and China have more mutual interest than differences

In wake of Chinese Premier Li's visit to India, Ambassador of India in China Jaishankar during a press conference said that India is a priority in China's agenda of global development.

Jai Shankar said that the present visit of the Chinese Premier Li to India is significant because it is his first visit to India. " India surely is a priority in China's agenda today on global development. This is substantive because all matters were discussed in a wide range of talks. It took place at a time when the relationship is expanding in many ways", he said

Jaishankar pointed out that there were issues," but it was seen that our shared interest is more than the differences. Bilateral issues were the main concern. Discussions were made to build trust."

He also said, "We made the point that maintaining peace on the borders is the most important factor in maintaining peace. The Special Representatives will meet and discuss the issues to maintain peace and tranquility."

Jaishankar pointed out that the Chinese Premier suggested some measures to overcome the financial deficit in the trade between the two countries. He said:" In the past few years this is the most positive response we have got from the Chinese front. Both sides saw investments as a major tool to enhance bilateral ties."

India and China on Monday signed eight pacts, including sharing of information on water flow in the River Brahmaputra.The other pacts are on trade, commerce, education and culture.

The agreements were signed after delegation-level talks between the visiting Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and his Indian counterpart Dr Manmohan Singh here this afternoon.

In his press statement, Dr Singh said that the Special Representatives of both the countries will meet soon to seek a mutually beneficial settlement of border issue.

He said 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.

The Prime Minister sought greater market access for Indian products in China.

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 interest than differences.