Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi put up a strong show of their personal chemistry as Mr. Modi prepares for his maiden journey to Beijing as Premier this summer
In a video message sent on Monday afternoon by Mr. Modi during the launch of ‘Visit India’ year, the Prime Minister revealed that he shared a “a personal bond” with China, on account of his four visits as Gujarat Chief Minister to the Middle Kingdom.
Mr. Modi also sharply focused on partnering China to ensure the rise of “an Asian Century,” a topic on which visiting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj spoke at considerable length on Sunday during the inaugural of the China-India media seminar.
As Ms. Swaraj called on Mr. Xi at the iconic Great Hall of the People on Monday, the Chinese President spoke with exuberance about the time he spent, during his India visit last September, with Mr. Modi.
“I still cherish the fresh memories in my mind about the gracious hospitality extended to me by the government and people and particularly I cherish the fond memories of my trip to Prime Minister Modi’s hometown in Gujarat State.” Mr. Xi stressed the special gesture shown by Mr. Modi for personally accompanying him during the visit to Ahmedabad. “Please convey my best regards and cordial greetings to President (Pranab) Mukherjee and Prime Minister Modi.” The Chinese President said: “Solid steps are being taken to implement agreements between Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi and I.” He added: “I have full confidence on the future of China and India relations. I believe the good process will be achieved in the growth of bilateral relations”.
Sino-Indian ties were advancing with a steady “momentum,” the President observed.
Mr.Xi pointed out that Sino-Indian ties had achieved a turnaround, having entered a “new stage” of partnership following his visit to India.
“Since my visit to India, the relations between our two countries have entered a new phase.
Warming up to the conversation, Ms. Swaraj conveyed to Mr. Xi, Mr. Modi’s warm wishes on the occasion of the upcoming Lunar Year of the Sheep, the Chinese New Year.
She said the Year of the Sheep signalled creativity and innovation, reinforcing President Xi’s stress on creativity and innovation during his visit.
Ms. Swaraj was confident that the two countries would be able to devise new ways during the Chinese New Year to further improve the relationship.
