May 19, 9:4 AM
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang is arriving in New Delhi today on a 3 day offcial visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. The visit of Li amidst optimism of expanding of cooperation between the two countries substantially.
A large business delegation is also accompanying him. During the visit, both leaders are expected to discuss the entire gamut of India-China relations.
The two leaders, accompanied by high-level delegations, will hold comprehensive talks on key international, regional and bilateral issues including boundary, waters and on market access under economic ties.
Joint Secretary (East Asia) Gautam Bambawale said the two Prime Ministers will talk about these subjects and everything is on the table. He also said since Chinese incursion being the recent occurrence, it will be discussed.
On the occasion of Li's visit to India, External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid in an interview to Chinese state-run news agency has said that India is ready to write a new chapter of its relationship with China.
He said the two countries should align their positions in many areas despite differences. Mr Khurshid also said that this visit is special because it is the first visit abroad by the Chinese premier since he assumed office in March.
External Affairs Ministry Spokersperson Syed Akbaruddin said New Delhi is highly hopeful that the visit will enhance mutual trust and understanding between the people and leadership on sensitivities of two countries.
He said India has accorded priority to relations with China which needs to be carefully nurtured and India-China relations are important for the 21st Century as it evolves into both regional and global significance.
Chinese analysts in Beijing say that the visit of the Chinese Premier aimed at breaking new ground amid recent border stand-off, could also focus on the need for settlement of border dispute besides boosting trade.
