India wants fair solution to border issue: Pranab

President is scheduled to visit China on May 24.

U.S. President Barack Obama waves, as Indian President Pranab Mukherjee, center, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi stand beside him during a ceremonial reception at the Indian presidential Palace in New Delhi, India, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015. Obama is the first American leader to be invited to attend India's Republic Day festivities, which commence Monday and mark the anniversary of the enactment of the country's democratic constitution. (AP Photo/Saurabh Das)

Ahead of his visit to China, President Pranab Mukherjee said on Friday that India was in favour of a “fair, reasonable” and mutually acceptable settlement of boundary question which will help in achieving the full potential of Sino-India relationship.

To visit China on May 24

Talking to state-run Chinese Central Television (CCTV) and Xinuha news agencies ahead of his first State visit beginning May 24, the President spoke on various issues including India’s concerns on terrorism, bilateral trade and cultural and educational exchanges.

To a question on some “sensitive problems” left over from history between India and China, Mr. Mukherjee said India would like to expand and diversify its engagement with China across various fields while “proactively addressing outstanding issues” including the boundary question.

“We seek a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable settlement of the boundary question and, pending the boundary settlement, to maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas.

“Both sides should strive to ensure that the outstanding issues are addressed in a manner that demonstrates mutual sensitivity to each other’s concerns and aspiration,” he said. Only then can “we ensure that these differences will not come in the way of continued development of bilateral relations.”