Singh, who started his three-day visit to forward areas along the borders with Pakistan and China, said India "only wants to defend its borders" and infiltration and transgressions from across the frontiers should stop. He said India was ready to take lead to improve ties with neighbours but would not compromise on honour and dignity.
"We want better relationships with China and Pakistan. Peace cannot prevail in Asia and the continent cannot prosper on the path of development" till India's relations with them improve, Singh said while addressing ITBP troops, who guard India's border with China, at a function here.
"India has never been an expansionist country. Neither we have been expansionist nor we will be in future.
"Why I am saying this with full determination because India is the only country in the world where saints and sages have not only considered people living within the borders as its citizens, but also the other people living in the world," he said.
Not only with China, but Indian wants "heart-to-heart" relationship with all neighbouring countries, he said.
Earlier speaking to reporters, Singh said, "I always wish for better relationship with our neighbours. It is always an endeavour from our side. We have extended our hand (of friendship to Pakistan and China)."
He was replying to a volley of questions about major ceasefire violations by Pakistan and transgressions on Sino- Indian border.
On the issue of dialogue with Pakistan in the backdrop of heavy shelling and firing on Indian civilian population, he said, "I have said that India wants better relations with the neighbours. Better relations can be built. Pakistan should come forward, both the sides should come forward. India is ready to take lead."
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