Summit will usher in ‘new era' in India-China ties, says Modi

Both sides agree to set up a high-level economic and trade dialogue mechanism.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Chinese President Xi Jinping at Fisherman's Cove in Kovalam near Mamallapuram on October 12, 2019. Photo: Special Arrangement

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the second India-China “informal summit” would usher in “a new era” in ties that had seen “increased stability and fresh momentum” after the first summit between him and President Xi Jinping in Wuhan last year.

Initiating the delegation-level talks at a private beach resort in Kovalam, 30 km from Chennai, Mr. Modi said, referring to the Wuhan summit, “We had decided that we would prudently manage our differences and not let them become disputes, be sensitive to each other’s concerns, and be a reason for peace and stability in the world.”

Mr. Modi said, referring to the Wuhan summit, “We had decided that we would prudently manage our differences and not let them become disputes, be sensitive to each other’s concerns, and be a reason for peace and stability in the world.”

‘New momentum’

Talking of the many opportunities to enhance ties, he said, “The Wuhan spirit has given our relations new momentum and trust. Today, our Chennai Connect will begin a new age in relations between our countries.”

Plogging at a beach in Mamallapuram this morning. It lasted for over 30 minutes.

Also handed over my 'collection' to Jeyaraj, who is a part of the hotel staff.

Let us ensure our public places are clean and tidy!

Let us also ensure we remain fit and healthy. pic.twitter.com/qBHLTxtM9y

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 12, 2019

At the beginning, Mr. Modi spoke a few words in Tamil to welcome the visiting dignitary.

In his response, Mr. Xi recalled that the initiative for the informal summit came from Mr. Modi and he had agreed to the proposal. The Wuhan summit had led to “healthy and steady development” in the ties. The two countries had “deepened strategic communication”, apart from having “closer cooperation” at multilateral forums.

Welcome President...

Prime Minister @narendramodi welcomes President #XiJinping at the Fisherman's Cove in #Mamallapuram for talks on the second day of 2nd Informal India-China Summit#ModixijinpingMeetpic.twitter.com/iKjNyar3eg

— PIB India (@PIB_India) October 12, 2019

During talks, India and China agreed to set up a high-level economic and trade dialogue mechanism. It would include Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and China’s Vice-Premier Hu Chunhua, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said.

Asked about China’s support for Pakistan in the Kashmir issue, Mr. Gokhale said the issue was not discussed. He added that the relationship was “not predicated on a single issue”. However, Mr. Xi did brief Mr. Modi about Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s visit this week to Beijing, where Kashmir had prominently featured in their statements.

( With inputs from Suhasini Haidar in New Delhi )