PM conveys India's commitment to China on visa simplification

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Wednesday conveyed India's commitment to China on simplification of visa procedures to facilitate easier travel for Chinese nationals to India and expressed the hope that Beijing will also reciprocate.

Dr. Singh said he had had candid and constructive discussions on regional and global issues of importance with his Chinese counterpart Li Keqiang.

"This is one of the promising developments in our relationship," he added.

Dr. Singh further said the agreements and MOUs signed today in various areas --- covering defence cooperation, road transport sector, trans-border rivers, power equipment, cultural exchanges, Nalanda University and sister-city linkages --- will build on the two countries impressive range of cooperation.

"As Premier Li has said, India and China are two ancient civilisations. We account for 2.5 billion people. When India and China shake hands, the world takes notice. I believe that my visit to China has put our relations on a path of stable and fast growth," said Dr. Singh in his statement to the media after delegation-level talks with the Chinese Premier.

"I thank Premier Li once again and look forward to my other engagements with the Chinese leadership and the public today and tomorrow. It has been a most enjoyable stay in this beautiful city and I thank Premier Li and the people of China for their hospitality," he added.