Indo-Sino relation: 'More consensus than differences'

The three-day visit beginning on January 13 would further enhance communications between the two nations and better coordinate their stances in regional and international affairs, the state-run People's Daily, whose views are reflective of the ruling Communist Party of China's (CPC) stance, said in an article.

"China and India are neighbours of great significance to each other. Both are emerging powers noted for rapid development. In recent years, China and India have continuously exchanged high-level visits and bilateral ties have kept a strong momentum for further development," the paper said.

The article took note of the high-level exchanges between the two countries, including the visits to India by Chinese President Hu Jintao in 2006 and by Premier Wen Jiabao in 2005 and the trip by UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi to China last year, the first foreign leader to undertake the visit after the CPC's 17th National Congress in October.

In 2007, the paper said, leaders of the two countries held meetings on important international occasions, including the outreach session of the Group of Eight (G8) summit and the East Asia Summit, and had discussions on how to further deepen bilateral relations.

The two countries maintained close contact and coordination in regional and international affairs, the article said, adding, such mechanisms as the China India strategic dialogue, the bilateral dialogue on anti terrorism had provided an important channel for two-way communications.

Referring to the consensus reached by the two neighbours over climate change and energy supply, the article said both governments had realised that the Strategic and Cooperative Partnership between China and India was in their interests and peoples, and "is conducive to peace, stability and prosperity of Asia and the world."

"Leaders from both sides have said that Sino-Indian relations have transcended the mere concept of bilateral ties to have international significance."

Taking note of the border problem "left over by history," it said the two countries would surely work out solutions that are practical and satisfactory for both sides so long as they cherish the values of peace, friendship, equality, consultation, mutual respect and understanding.

Delegates from both sides for settling the border issues have held three meetings in 2007, it said. Currently, the article added, the two countries have "more consensus than differences" as a result of efforts to boost mutual trust.