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Thursday, Sep 25, 2008
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India, China satisfied over border talks

Harish Khare

Manmohan, Wen Jiabao meet

NEW YORK: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Chinese counterpart, Wen Jiaobao expressed “satisfaction” at the progress made recently by their respective designated special representatives on the boundary question. Acknowledging that the boundary dispute was a “complicated” issue, the two prime ministers reportedly encouraged the special representatives to continue their labours.

The two premiers are here to attend the United Nations General Assembly, and on Wednesday the Chinese leader called on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at Hotel New York Palace. The two leaders met for 30 minutes.

According to Foreign Secretary Shivshankar Menon the two countries expressed their desire to expand their cooperation in the civilian uses of nuclear energy. Mr. Menon made it clear that the Indian side did not raise the question of China’s presumed unhelpful role at the recent Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

Mr. Menon reiterated the familiar formulation that “China was part of the consensus at the NSG” and this consensus could not have come about without the Chinese acquiescence. “We are happy it is behind us,” he said.

Dr. Singh and Mr. Wen struck a “personal rapport” and the interaction was marked by warmth and friendliness, Mr. Menon said.

He pointed out that the two leaders have a similar approach to global economic issues. The Chinese premier brought along for Dr. Singh a copy of a book, published by Cambridge University Press. The book reproduces Dr. Singh’s address at Cambridge University on ‘international inclusive growth” and Mr. Wen ’s call for “inclusive international development.”

In the context of the current global financial crisis, the two leaders felt the need for greater and open management of international economic institutions. They also shared views on regional and world developments. There was also satisfaction over the expanding trade ties before the two nations; the target of $60 billion trade, set for 2010, within reach.

Dr. Singh later met the president of the World Bank and had a luncheon meeting with a select group of American CEOs.

And, later in the afternoon (early Thursday morning, Indian Standard Time), the Prime Minister is scheduled to meet Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari.

Still later he is scheduled to receive Republican Presidential candidate John McCain. There is considerable interest and speculation whether Mr. McCain would bring along with him his vice-presidential running mate Sarah Pallin.

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