Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-foreign-minister-javad-zarif-makes-surprise-visit-to-g7-summit-245580">Zarif kicked off his Asian tour</a> in Beijing on Monday, presenting a 25-year plan to cement Iran's ties with its biggest Asian trading partner amid biting US sanctions.

In Beijing, Zarif met with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi and said the pair had discussed a 25-year road map to strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries.

China has continued to purchase Iranian crude despite sanctions.

"We reject actions of interference by others in the affairs of progressive countries including Iran and China," China's foreign minister told reporters after the meeting with Zarif.

"We have stood together in dealing with these interventions and interferences and rejecting them as a major threat to international peace and security and friendly relations among countries."

Zarif's Asian tour -- which also includes stopovers in Japan and Malaysia -- comes fresh on the heels of a surprise visit to the G7 summit in France over the weekend.

The summit in Biarritz saw a dramatic shift of focus when Zarif flew in at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the diplomatic deadlock on Tehran's disputed nuclear programme.

Iran's top diplomat didn't meet US President Donald Trump, French diplomats said, but the presence of the two men in the same place at least sparked hopes of detente.&nbsp;

Zarif was a key architect of the 2015 nuclear deal reached between Iran, the United States, European powers, Russia and China.&nbsp;

Trump's policy of applying "maximum pressure" on Tehran via crippling sanctions has been criticised by European powers and China and is seen as raising the risk of conflict in the Middle East.

In July, the US government imposed heavy sanctions seeking to hamper Zarif's travel, and effectively banning him from the United States.

Zarif tweeted that he was heading to Japan and Malaysia in the next leg of his Asian tour without offering details.

Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif kicked off his Asian tour in Beijing on Monday, presenting a 25-year plan to cement Iran's ties with its biggest Asian trading partner amid biting US sanctions.

Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif kicked off his Asian tour in Beijing on Monday, presenting a 25-year plan to cement Iran's ties with its biggest Asian trading partner amid biting US sanctions. In Beijing, Zarif met with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi and said the pair had discussed a 25-year road map to strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries. China has continued to purchase Iranian crude despite sanctions. "We reject actions of interference by others in the affairs of progressive countries including Iran and China," China's foreign minister told reporters after the meeting with Zarif. "We have stood together in dealing with these interventions and interferences and rejecting them as a major threat to international peace and security and friendly relations among countries." Zarif's Asian tour -- which also includes stopovers in Japan and Malaysia -- comes fresh on the heels of a surprise visit to the G7 summit in France over the weekend. The summit in Biarritz saw a dramatic shift of focus when Zarif flew in at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the diplomatic deadlock on Tehran's disputed nuclear programme. Iran's top diplomat didn't meet US President Donald Trump, French diplomats said, but the presence of the two men in the same place at least sparked hopes of detente. Zarif was a key architect of the 2015 nuclear deal reached between Iran, the United States, European powers, Russia and China. Trump's policy of applying "maximum pressure" on Tehran via crippling sanctions has been criticised by European powers and China and is seen as raising the risk of conflict in the Middle East. In July, the US government imposed heavy sanctions seeking to hamper Zarif's travel, and effectively banning him from the United States. Zarif tweeted that he was heading to Japan and Malaysia in the next leg of his Asian tour without offering details.

Iran's foreign minister meets China's Wang Yi, discusses 25-year road map to strengthen economic cooperation between two countries

India has told China that the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir will have no impact on the Line of Actual Control (LAC). During a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on Monday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that China’s concerns were misplaced.

S Jaishankar: Abrogation of Article 370, bifurcation is India's internal matter

After China expressed disapproval of the Indian government’s decision to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, at a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing said,” Any bilateral differences should not become disputes.” Also, India and China on Monday signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs)

Watch: India-China sign four MoUs

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in Bejing. The meeting took place at Diaoyutai guest house, which was once the residence of Chairman Mao Zedong but now used to receive foreign dignitaries.&nbsp;

Jaishankar is on a pre-scheduled visit to Beijing from August 11 to 13 and left for China on Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;The&nbsp;focus during the visit is on the second informal summit between&nbsp;PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year.&nbsp;

Post lunch, both the foreign ministers will later inaugurate the India China Media forum and make press statements as well.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
External Affairs Minister will co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges (HLM) along with his counterpart. The HLM aims to increase people-to-people ties and enhance engagement in areas such&nbsp;as tourism, art, films, media, culture, sports.

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"The second HLM meeting will provide an opportunity to follow up on the outcomes of the first HLM meeting and discuss new initiatives for enhancing people-to-people exchanges between our two countries", MEA in a statement said. 
&nbsp; 
The HLC was one of the key outcomes of the Wuhan informal meet and the first meet happened in Delhi in&nbsp;2018&nbsp;between Wang Yi and former external affairs minister S Jaishankar. 
&nbsp; 
Earlier in the day,&nbsp;External Affairs Minister called on Vice President of China&nbsp;Wang&nbsp;Qishan.

Ahead of the visit, India called China an important partner. Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs said,&nbsp;"China is a very important partner. There are many channels available to us to discuss all bilateral&nbsp;issues"

Adding, "it is expected bilateral issues will come up for discussion. We will discuss the informal summit. We will also discuss how to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties."

India's prime minister met the Chinese President in Kyrgyzstan earlier this year on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation summit and last year both met each other four times starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan in April.

&nbsp;The visit of Indian foreign minister comes even as Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi went on an emergency visit to China to meet the Chinese FM in the backdrop of India's internal decision to change the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir.&nbsp;

Pakistani FM met Chinese FM on Friday and in a release, the Chinese foreign ministry said, "Pakistan and India are both China’s friendly neighbours and major developing countries that are in a crucial stage of development", and called on the "two sides to proceed&nbsp;from their national development and peace in South Asia".

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in Bejing. The meeting took place at Diaoyutai guest house, which was once the residence of Chairman Mao Zedong but now used to receive foreign dignitaries.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in Bejing. The meeting took place at Diaoyutai guest house, which was once the residence of Chairman Mao Zedong but now used to receive foreign dignitaries. Jaishankar is on a pre-scheduled visit to Beijing from August 11 to 13 and left for China on Sunday. The focus during the visit is on the second informal summit between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year. Post lunch, both the foreign ministers will later inaugurate the India China Media forum and make press statements as well. External Affairs Minister will co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges (HLM) along with his counterpart. The HLM aims to increase people-to-people ties and enhance engagement in areas such as tourism, art, films, media, culture, sports. China: External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar meets Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi in Beijing. pic.twitter.com/6RHgad285b — ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2019 × "The second HLM meeting will provide an opportunity to follow up on the outcomes of the first HLM meeting and discuss new initiatives for enhancing people-to-people exchanges between our two countries", MEA in a statement said. The HLC was one of the key outcomes of the Wuhan informal meet and the first meet happened in Delhi in 2018 between Wang Yi and former external affairs minister S Jaishankar. Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister called on Vice President of China Wang Qishan. Ahead of the visit, India called China an important partner. Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs said, "China is a very important partner. There are many channels available to us to discuss all bilateral issues" Adding, "it is expected bilateral issues will come up for discussion. We will discuss the informal summit. We will also discuss how to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties." India's prime minister met the Chinese President in Kyrgyzstan earlier this year on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation summit and last year both met each other four times starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan in April. The visit of Indian foreign minister comes even as Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi went on an emergency visit to China to meet the Chinese FM in the backdrop of India's internal decision to change the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistani FM met Chinese FM on Friday and in a release, the Chinese foreign ministry said, "Pakistan and India are both China’s friendly neighbours and major developing countries that are in a crucial stage of development", and called on the "two sides to proceed from their national development and peace in South Asia".

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar meets Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in Beijing amid Article 370 row

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar&nbsp;on a three-day visit to China held talks with foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday.

In the joint address at the foreign minister's meeting, Jaishanker announced that Prime Minister Modi and President Xi would be meeting in October.

"Some suggestions were made today by the Chinese side to expand the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, we are deeply appreciative of those initiatives," Jaishanker said. &nbsp;

The talks between Jaishanker and Wang Yi focussed&nbsp;on a second, informal, Wuhan-like summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping to be held in India this year.

"India, China should be a factor of stability," Wang Yi said. "We need to deepen our cooperation, there are certain differences between the two nations,"&nbsp;China's foreign minister said.

Watch:&nbsp;EAM S Jaishankar hold talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eam-s-jaishankar-hold-talks-with-chinese-foreign-minister-wang-yi-242368/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"There are differences between the two countries, we don't shy away from it but are candid and we will address it," Wang asserted.

During talks with Wang Yi, Jaishankar invoked the Astana consensus. Jaishanker announced that four agreements were signed between India and China&nbsp;including promoting cultural exchanges, enhance cooperation in the field of traditional medicine in healthcare and&nbsp;promote exchanges between sports associations and sportspersons.

India's external affairs minister had met Chinese vice president Wang Qishan earlier.

This is Jaishankar's first ministerial-level meeting with Chinese officials as part of the new government which was formed in May after the BJP-led NDA received&nbsp;a huge mandate in the general elections.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on a three-day visit to China held talks with foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday. In the joint address at the foreign minister's meeting, Jaishanker announced that Prime Minister Modi and President Xi would be meeting in October.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on a three-day visit to China held talks with foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday. In the joint address at the foreign minister's meeting, Jaishanker announced that Prime Minister Modi and President Xi would be meeting in October. "Some suggestions were made today by the Chinese side to expand the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, we are deeply appreciative of those initiatives," Jaishanker said. The talks between Jaishanker and Wang Yi focussed on a second, informal, Wuhan-like summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping to be held in India this year. "India, China should be a factor of stability," Wang Yi said. "We need to deepen our cooperation, there are certain differences between the two nations," China's foreign minister said. Watch: EAM S Jaishankar hold talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi "There are differences between the two countries, we don't shy away from it but are candid and we will address it," Wang asserted. During talks with Wang Yi, Jaishankar invoked the Astana consensus. Jaishanker announced that four agreements were signed between India and China including promoting cultural exchanges, enhance cooperation in the field of traditional medicine in healthcare and promote exchanges between sports associations and sportspersons. India's external affairs minister had met Chinese vice president Wang Qishan earlier. This is Jaishankar's first ministerial-level meeting with Chinese officials as part of the new government which was formed in May after the BJP-led NDA received a huge mandate in the general elections.

PM Modi to meet President Xi in October, announces Jaishankar in China

India and China agreed to cooperate in several areas on Monday, during India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar's meeting with his counterpart Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi.&nbsp;

The visit is a preparatory visit for the second informal summit between Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping which will take place on October 11 in Varanasi. The first informal summit between the two leaders had taken place in April 2018 at Wuhan.

During the joint press conference with Wang Yi, Jaishanker said: "Wuhan was a historic meeting that has provided positive direction to our relations", adding, "there has been progress in overall relationship. The two countries agree that maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas is essential for the smooth development of our relations."

Beijing has offered to expand Mansarovar Yatra and said it is aware of India's call for greater access to domestic Chinese market.

"We are of the view that we need to deepen our cooperation," China's foreign minister said, adding, "we stand ready to provide facilities to Indian exports to China".

Jaishanker is in the Chinese capital for a three-day visit to participate in the India-China high-level mechanism to increase cultural and people-to-people exchanges. It was part of the informal agreement between PM Modi and President Xi at the Wuhan Summit.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eam-s-jaishankar-hold-talks-with-chinese-foreign-minister-wang-yi-242368/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Jaishanker's meeting on Monday took place in the backdrop of New Delhi's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir which cropped up during the Jaishankar-Wang discussions.

The Chinese foreign minister said: "There are some differences between our two countries, we don't shy away from those differences. We exchanged view on those matters in a candid manner regarding recent tensions between India and Pak, we made clear China's concerns and issues regarding China's sovereignty, we stated China's principled position."&nbsp;

Jaishankar called for "mutual sensitivity to each other’s core concerns" and "properly managing differences" vital for India-China relations.&nbsp;

"As our leaders agreed in Astana, differences should not become disputes. That is how India-China relations can remain a factor of stability in an uncertain world," he said.

Meanwhile, China has called for Indian support to "pushback unilateralism, protectionism with concrete action" and "safeguard the status of China and India as developing countries" even as Bejing faces Washington's ire on the trade front.

Both sides also concluded four MoUs on promoting cultural exchanges, enhancing cooperation in the field of traditional medicine, promoting exchanges between national sports associations and cooperation in museum management.&nbsp;

The two foreign ministries have agreed on a plan of action for bilateral engagements for the year 2020 which marks 70 years of establishment of diplomatic ties.

Jaishanker will be calling the Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday morning before leaving for Delhi. He called on Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan on Monday morning.

India and China agreed to cooperate in several areas on Monday, during India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar's meeting with his counterpart Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi.

India and China agreed to cooperate in several areas on Monday, during India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar's meeting with his counterpart Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi. The visit is a preparatory visit for the second informal summit between Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping which will take place on October 11 in Varanasi. The first informal summit between the two leaders had taken place in April 2018 at Wuhan. During the joint press conference with Wang Yi, Jaishanker said: "Wuhan was a historic meeting that has provided positive direction to our relations", adding, "there has been progress in overall relationship. The two countries agree that maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas is essential for the smooth development of our relations." Beijing has offered to expand Mansarovar Yatra and said it is aware of India's call for greater access to domestic Chinese market. "We are of the view that we need to deepen our cooperation," China's foreign minister said, adding, "we stand ready to provide facilities to Indian exports to China". Jaishanker is in the Chinese capital for a three-day visit to participate in the India-China high-level mechanism to increase cultural and people-to-people exchanges. It was part of the informal agreement between PM Modi and President Xi at the Wuhan Summit. Watch Video: Jaishanker's meeting on Monday took place in the backdrop of New Delhi's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir which cropped up during the Jaishankar-Wang discussions. The Chinese foreign minister said: "There are some differences between our two countries, we don't shy away from those differences. We exchanged view on those matters in a candid manner regarding recent tensions between India and Pak, we made clear China's concerns and issues regarding China's sovereignty, we stated China's principled position." Jaishankar called for "mutual sensitivity to each other’s core concerns" and "properly managing differences" vital for India-China relations. "As our leaders agreed in Astana, differences should not become disputes. That is how India-China relations can remain a factor of stability in an uncertain world," he said. Meanwhile, China has called for Indian support to "pushback unilateralism, protectionism with concrete action" and "safeguard the status of China and India as developing countries" even as Bejing faces Washington's ire on the trade front. Both sides also concluded four MoUs on promoting cultural exchanges, enhancing cooperation in the field of traditional medicine, promoting exchanges between national sports associations and cooperation in museum management. The two foreign ministries have agreed on a plan of action for bilateral engagements for the year 2020 which marks 70 years of establishment of diplomatic ties. Jaishanker will be calling the Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday morning before leaving for Delhi. He called on Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan on Monday morning.

PM Modi, President Xi to meet in Varanasi on October 11

With focus on the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will meet Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday.&nbsp;

Jaishankar is on a pre-scheduled visit to Beijing from August 11-13 and left for China on Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ahead of the visit, India called China an important partner. Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs said,&nbsp;"China is a very important partner. There are many channels available to us to discuss all bilateral issues."

Further adding Raveesh Kumar said, "It is expected that bilateral issues will come up for discussion. We will discuss the informal summit. We will also discuss how to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties."

PM Modi met the Chinese President in Kyrgyzstan earlier this year on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Summit and last year both met each other four times starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan in April.

External Affairs Minister will co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges (HLM) along with his counterpart.&nbsp;

The HLM aims to increase&nbsp;people-to-people ties and enhance engagement in areas such as tourism, art, films, media, culture, sports.

"The second HLM meeting will provide an opportunity to follow up on the outcomes of the first HLM meeting and discuss new initiatives for enhancing people-to-people exchanges between our two countries", MEA said in a statement.

The HLC was one of the key outcomes of the Wuhan informal meet and the first meet happened in Delhi in 2018 between Wang Yi and former external affairs minister S Jaishankar.

The visit of Indian foreign minister comes even as Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi went on an emergency visit to China to meet Wang Yi in the backdrop of India's internal decision to change the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Qureshi met Wang Yi on Friday and in a release, the Chinese foreign ministry said, "Pakistan and India are both China’s friendly neighbours and major developing countries that are in a crucial stage of development", and called on the "two sides to proceed from their national development and peace in South Asia."

China has reacted negatively to New Delhi's decision on Jammu and Kashmir evoking a strong reaction New Delhi and said, "India&nbsp;does not comment on the internal affairs of other countries and similarly expects other countries to do likewise."

With focus on the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will meet Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday.

With focus on the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will meet Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday. Jaishankar is on a pre-scheduled visit to Beijing from August 11-13 and left for China on Sunday. Ahead of the visit, India called China an important partner. Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs said, "China is a very important partner. There are many channels available to us to discuss all bilateral issues." Further adding Raveesh Kumar said, "It is expected that bilateral issues will come up for discussion. We will discuss the informal summit. We will also discuss how to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties." PM Modi met the Chinese President in Kyrgyzstan earlier this year on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Summit and last year both met each other four times starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan in April. External Affairs Minister will co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges (HLM) along with his counterpart. The HLM aims to increase people-to-people ties and enhance engagement in areas such as tourism, art, films, media, culture, sports. "The second HLM meeting will provide an opportunity to follow up on the outcomes of the first HLM meeting and discuss new initiatives for enhancing people-to-people exchanges between our two countries", MEA said in a statement. The HLC was one of the key outcomes of the Wuhan informal meet and the first meet happened in Delhi in 2018 between Wang Yi and former external affairs minister S Jaishankar. The visit of Indian foreign minister comes even as Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi went on an emergency visit to China to meet Wang Yi in the backdrop of India's internal decision to change the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Qureshi met Wang Yi on Friday and in a release, the Chinese foreign ministry said, "Pakistan and India are both China’s friendly neighbours and major developing countries that are in a crucial stage of development", and called on the "two sides to proceed from their national development and peace in South Asia." China has reacted negatively to New Delhi's decision on Jammu and Kashmir evoking a strong reaction New Delhi and said, "India does not comment on the internal affairs of other countries and similarly expects other countries to do likewise."

India's foreign minister Jaishankar leaves for China ahead of second informal summit

Footage emerged Saturday of the moment a bomb exploded in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-fake-bombs-found-near-bangkok-forum-of-world-powers-police-240006">Bangkok</a> mall as the city hosted a major summit, the device hidden inside a cuddly toy animal.

There were nine successful or attempted bomb blasts on Friday throughout Bangkok which left four wounded as the city hosted a regional summit attended by top diplomats, including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Footage showed an explosion in a shopping mall minutes from the summit venue in the early hours of Friday morning, after it was planted by a man dressed in a student's uniform about 12 hours earlier.

The man, wearing a fedora and face mask, entered a store in Siam Square mall at around 3:30 pm on Thursday, according to time stamps on the footage obtained by AFP.

Milling around the store, he stopped at a shelf full of cuddly toy seals and polar bears and fiddled with one of them for a few seconds before placing it back on the shelf.

The next video recordings showed an explosion in the store originating from the shelf around 4:45 am on Friday, which caused a fire and a swirl of smoke as the store's sprinkler system was activated.

No one was injured and police confirmed the bomb blast.

"The staff from the ... the store filed a complaint with the police about the blast yesterday," Colonel Thammanoon Boonruang told AFP Saturday, declining to comment on whether it was one of the nine explosions authorities confirmed.

The store remained closed on Saturday.

Speculation swirled in Thailand about the motive behind the bombings, with many linking them to retaliation from the insurgency hit south for the recent arrest of a rebel suspect who was left in a coma after arriving at a notorious army camp.

A preliminary army led probe showed that Abdulloh Esormusor, 34, could have been suffocated.

Thailand has a grim history of political violence and remains deeply divided after a controversial March election which returned junta chief Prayut Chan-O-Cha to power as a civilian premier.&nbsp;

Its three southernmost provinces bordering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-malaysia-restart-massive-belt-and-road-project-after-hiccups-238327">Malaysia</a>, which are predominantly Muslim-Malay, are also in a grip of a 15 year conflict, where a shadowy rebel group has agitated for more autonomy outside of the Buddhist majority Thai state.

So far, two men linked to the conflict hit region were arrested hours after wires and ball bearings were found in an inactive device outside Thai police headquarters late Thursday.

But police said it was "too early" to clearly tie them to the rebellion.

Footage emerged Saturday of the moment a bomb exploded in a Bangkok mall as the city hosted a major summit, the device hidden inside a cuddly toy animal. There were nine successful or attempted bomb blasts on Friday throughout Bangkok which left four wounded as the city hosted a regional summit attended by top diplomats, including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Footage emerged Saturday of the moment a bomb exploded in a Bangkok mall as the city hosted a major summit, the device hidden inside a cuddly toy animal. There were nine successful or attempted bomb blasts on Friday throughout Bangkok which left four wounded as the city hosted a regional summit attended by top diplomats, including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Footage showed an explosion in a shopping mall minutes from the summit venue in the early hours of Friday morning, after it was planted by a man dressed in a student's uniform about 12 hours earlier. The man, wearing a fedora and face mask, entered a store in Siam Square mall at around 3:30 pm on Thursday, according to time stamps on the footage obtained by AFP. Milling around the store, he stopped at a shelf full of cuddly toy seals and polar bears and fiddled with one of them for a few seconds before placing it back on the shelf. The next video recordings showed an explosion in the store originating from the shelf around 4:45 am on Friday, which caused a fire and a swirl of smoke as the store's sprinkler system was activated. No one was injured and police confirmed the bomb blast. "The staff from the ... the store filed a complaint with the police about the blast yesterday," Colonel Thammanoon Boonruang told AFP Saturday, declining to comment on whether it was one of the nine explosions authorities confirmed. The store remained closed on Saturday. Speculation swirled in Thailand about the motive behind the bombings, with many linking them to retaliation from the insurgency hit south for the recent arrest of a rebel suspect who was left in a coma after arriving at a notorious army camp. A preliminary army led probe showed that Abdulloh Esormusor, 34, could have been suffocated. Thailand has a grim history of political violence and remains deeply divided after a controversial March election which returned junta chief Prayut Chan-O-Cha to power as a civilian premier. Its three southernmost provinces bordering Malaysia, which are predominantly Muslim-Malay, are also in a grip of a 15 year conflict, where a shadowy rebel group has agitated for more autonomy outside of the Buddhist majority Thai state. So far, two men linked to the conflict hit region were arrested hours after wires and ball bearings were found in an inactive device outside Thai police headquarters late Thursday. But police said it was "too early" to clearly tie them to the rebellion.

Footage shows Bangkok bombing in mall minutes from ASEAN summit

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said on Friday she met her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, to discuss t<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-says-another-citizen-detained-in-china-amid-huawei-cfo-row-235648">ensions following Canada's December arrest of a Huawei Technologies Co executive</a> on a US warrant, and the subsequent detention of two Canadians by China.

"The fact that we were able to speak and discuss these issues face-to-face, directly with one another, absolutely is a positive step," Freeland said in a teleconference from Bangkok, where she was attending an annual East Asia summit.

Freeland said the two ministers "committed to continued discussions," but she gave few details about their conversation.

"Our relationship with China is complicated at the moment, and I am convinced ... that the surest route to a successful outcome is for us not to be negotiating in public," she added.

It was the first encounter between the two since Canada detained Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou - the daughter of the Chinese company's founder - in December. Beijing is demanding her return.

She is facing possible extradition to the United States to face charges that she conspired to defraud global banks about Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran.

"Minister Wang expressed concerns regarding the extradition process of Meng Wanzhou," Freeland said without elaborating.

US President Donald Trump said in December that he was willing to intervene in the Justice Department's case against Meng if it would serve national security interests or help close a trade deal with China.

After Meng was picked up in Vancouver, China detained Canadians Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig and later charged them with spying.

Freeland said she expressed Canada's concerns over the two men, "who have been arbitrarily detained in China."

Trudeau's nagging problem

The diplomatic dispute has intensified in recent months and is a nagging problem for Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who faces a tight race for re-election in October.

In June, China blocked all imports of Canadian meat after fraudulent documents were discovered. Chinese importers have also stopped buying Canadian canola.

Trudeau, who spoke briefly to Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Japan in June, has faced repeated attacks from Conservative leader Andrew Scheer, his main rival, over his handling of the affair.

On Friday, Scheer said Freeland's meeting with her Chinese counterpart was "a very basic step" and "the government has done nothing" since the men were detained at the start of the year.

"Canadian families, Canadian workers, Canadian farmers, and Canadian job-creators are paying the price for your weak leadership," Scheer wrote in a letter to Trudeau last month, calling on the government to take tough countermeasures, including examining retaliatory tariffs.

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said on Friday she met her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, to discuss tensions following Canada's December arrest of a Huawei Technologies Co executive on a US warrant, and the subsequent detention of two Canadians by China.

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said on Friday she met her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, to discuss tensions following Canada's December arrest of a Huawei Technologies Co executive on a US warrant, and the subsequent detention of two Canadians by China. "The fact that we were able to speak and discuss these issues face-to-face, directly with one another, absolutely is a positive step," Freeland said in a teleconference from Bangkok, where she was attending an annual East Asia summit. Freeland said the two ministers "committed to continued discussions," but she gave few details about their conversation. "Our relationship with China is complicated at the moment, and I am convinced ... that the surest route to a successful outcome is for us not to be negotiating in public," she added. It was the first encounter between the two since Canada detained Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou - the daughter of the Chinese company's founder - in December. Beijing is demanding her return. She is facing possible extradition to the United States to face charges that she conspired to defraud global banks about Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran. "Minister Wang expressed concerns regarding the extradition process of Meng Wanzhou," Freeland said without elaborating. US President Donald Trump said in December that he was willing to intervene in the Justice Department's case against Meng if it would serve national security interests or help close a trade deal with China. After Meng was picked up in Vancouver, China detained Canadians Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig and later charged them with spying. Freeland said she expressed Canada's concerns over the two men, "who have been arbitrarily detained in China." Trudeau's nagging problem The diplomatic dispute has intensified in recent months and is a nagging problem for Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who faces a tight race for re-election in October. In June, China blocked all imports of Canadian meat after fraudulent documents were discovered. Chinese importers have also stopped buying Canadian canola. Trudeau, who spoke briefly to Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Japan in June, has faced repeated attacks from Conservative leader Andrew Scheer, his main rival, over his handling of the affair. On Friday, Scheer said Freeland's meeting with her Chinese counterpart was "a very basic step" and "the government has done nothing" since the men were detained at the start of the year. "Canadian families, Canadian workers, Canadian farmers, and Canadian job-creators are paying the price for your weak leadership," Scheer wrote in a letter to Trudeau last month, calling on the government to take tough countermeasures, including examining retaliatory tariffs.

Canadian and Chinese ministers meet amid tensions, pledge to continue talks

External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday wrapped up his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-to-visit-beijing-to-prepare-for-pm-narendra-modi-xi-jinping-second-informal-summit-240245">two-day visit to Thailand</a>, during which he had 18 bilateral, four multilateral meetings. He also had five pull-aside meetings.

The focus during his bilateral and multilateral meetings was on Indo-Pacific, terrorism and India's Act East policy.&nbsp;

The four big meetings in which Jaishankar took part includes, ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting, the 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (EAS FMM), 26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting.&nbsp;

At the meetings, Jaishankar called for a "collective action to secure the Indo-Pacific, where terrorism remains a common scourge" while underlining "ASEAN centrality in free, open and inclusive regional architecture."&nbsp;

The focus on Indo-Pacific in Bangkok meet got more steam this year as ASEAN released its outlook on the evolving concept which China views suspiciously earlier this year.

At the ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting, Jaishankar said, India seeks "greater connectedness with the ASEAN region," envisions "connectivity in very broad terms, including physical, economic, political connectivity and close contact at the people-to-people level."&nbsp;

While his meeting with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo remained much talked about which came in the backdrop of American President Donald Trump's recent remarks on Kashmir. Jaishankar also met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah, the new British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab. He also met his Sri Lankan and Bangladeshi counterpart, Tilak Marapana and Dr AK Abdul Momen.&nbsp;

The meeting between Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart ahead of his China visit on August 12, is being seen as preparatory the second India-China informal summit. The summit is set to take place by the end of this year.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday wrapped up his two-day visit to Thailand, during which he had 18 bilateral, four multilateral meetings. He also had five pull-aside meetings.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday wrapped up his two-day visit to Thailand, during which he had 18 bilateral, four multilateral meetings. He also had five pull-aside meetings. The focus during his bilateral and multilateral meetings was on Indo-Pacific, terrorism and India's Act East policy. The four big meetings in which Jaishankar took part includes, ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting, the 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (EAS FMM), 26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting. At the meetings, Jaishankar called for a "collective action to secure the Indo-Pacific, where terrorism remains a common scourge" while underlining "ASEAN centrality in free, open and inclusive regional architecture." The focus on Indo-Pacific in Bangkok meet got more steam this year as ASEAN released its outlook on the evolving concept which China views suspiciously earlier this year. At the ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting, Jaishankar said, India seeks "greater connectedness with the ASEAN region," envisions "connectivity in very broad terms, including physical, economic, political connectivity and close contact at the people-to-people level." While his meeting with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo remained much talked about which came in the backdrop of American President Donald Trump's recent remarks on Kashmir. Jaishankar also met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah, the new British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab. He also met his Sri Lankan and Bangladeshi counterpart, Tilak Marapana and Dr AK Abdul Momen. The meeting between Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart ahead of his China visit on August 12, is being seen as preparatory the second India-China informal summit. The summit is set to take place by the end of this year.

In 2-day Bangkok visit, S Jaishankar holds meetings with 18 foreign ministers; discusses Indo-Pacific, Act East policy

China's top diplomat Wang Yi said maritime problems involving Vietnam should not interfere with bilateral relations, according to a report released by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Tensions between <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-outsiders-not-to-sow-distrust-in-south-china-sea-239750&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjJo8nOseHjAhVH_XMBHfosBk4QFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1m7dDqekgrr56MzmR6XYoq">Vietnam and China</a> have risen over a weeks-long standoff between ships near an offshore oil block in the South China Sea.

China released the statement following a meeting between Wang and Vietnamese Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh on Thursday in Bangkok. Wang said China-Vietnam relations continued to develop and the two sides will "properly control and manage the situation at sea."

China's top diplomat Wang Yi said maritime problems involving Vietnam should not interfere with bilateral relations, according to a report released by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

China's top diplomat Wang Yi said maritime problems involving Vietnam should not interfere with bilateral relations, according to a report released by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Tensions between Vietnam and China have risen over a weeks-long standoff between ships near an offshore oil block in the South China Sea. China released the statement following a meeting between Wang and Vietnamese Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh on Thursday in Bangkok. Wang said China-Vietnam relations continued to develop and the two sides will "properly control and manage the situation at sea."

Vietnam 'maritime problems' should not impinge on bilateral ties: China

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday urged the United States to correctly handle the Taiwan-related issues, and not "play with fire." Watch this video to know more.

China's stern warning to US over Taiwan

China's top diplomat Wang Yi warned the United States on Friday that it should "not play with fire" on the question of Taiwan, expressing anger about a planned US arms sale.

During a visit to Hungary, Wang said that no foreign force could stop the reunification of China and no foreign force should try to intervene.

The US State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of M1A2T Abrams tanks, Stinger missiles and related equipment at an estimated value of $2.2 billion, the Pentagon said on Monday, despite Chinese criticism of the deal.

China claims self-ruled and democratic Taiwan as its own and views it as a wayward province.

"We urge the US to fully recognise the gravity of the Taiwan question ... (and) not to play with fire on the question of Taiwan," Wang told a news conference via an interpreter.

China's top diplomat Wang Yi warned the United States on Friday that it should "not play with fire" on the question of Taiwan, expressing anger about a planned US arms sale.

China's top diplomat Wang Yi warned the United States on Friday that it should "not play with fire" on the question of Taiwan, expressing anger about a planned US arms sale. During a visit to Hungary, Wang said that no foreign force could stop the reunification of China and no foreign force should try to intervene. The US State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of M1A2T Abrams tanks, Stinger missiles and related equipment at an estimated value of $2.2 billion, the Pentagon said on Monday, despite Chinese criticism of the deal. China claims self-ruled and democratic Taiwan as its own and views it as a wayward province. "We urge the US to fully recognise the gravity of the Taiwan question ... (and) not to play with fire on the question of Taiwan," Wang told a news conference via an interpreter.

China says the US should 'not play with fire' on Taiwan amid Tsai Ing-wen's New York visit

A day ahead of declaration of Lok Sabha election&nbsp;results, China said it's ready to work with the new government in New Delhi.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday. It is during this meet, Wang Yi expressed his country's desire to work with the soon to be elected new Government.&nbsp;

Both sides also agreed on the implementation of the Wuhan informal summit goals. A tweet by the ministry of external affairs said, "Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including implementation of understanding, reached during Wuhan Summit". As part of Wuhan understanding, both leaders gave "strategic guidance" to their respective militaries to strengthen communication in order to build trust.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Continuing the momentum of high-level exchanges 
 
EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> met Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi on the sidelines of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SCO</a> Foreign Minister's Meeting in Bishkek. Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including implementation of understanding reached during Wuhan Summit. <a href="https://t.co/apfo2sEv9D">pic.twitter.com/apfo2sEv9D</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1131124148355383296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Both sides also discussed how to celebrate the 70th year anniversary of India-China relations. On 1 April 1950, India became the first non-socialist bloc country to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China.&nbsp;

This is the first meeting between both the ministers after listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist at the United Nation. China prevented the listing of Azhar, the chief of Pakistan based United nations listed terror group--Jaish-e-Mohammad since 2009. On May 1, it finally relented, paving the way for his listing leading to an arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze on him.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met four times in 2018 starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan. The Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India for the second informal summit this year.

A day ahead of declaration of Lok Sabha election results, China said it's ready to work with the new government in New Delhi. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday.

A day ahead of declaration of Lok Sabha election results, China said it's ready to work with the new government in New Delhi. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday. It is during this meet, Wang Yi expressed his country's desire to work with the soon to be elected new Government. Both sides also agreed on the implementation of the Wuhan informal summit goals. A tweet by the ministry of external affairs said, "Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including implementation of understanding, reached during Wuhan Summit". As part of Wuhan understanding, both leaders gave "strategic guidance" to their respective militaries to strengthen communication in order to build trust. Continuing the momentum of high-level exchanges EAM @SushmaSwaraj met Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi on the sidelines of #SCO Foreign Minister's Meeting in Bishkek. Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including implementation of understanding reached during Wuhan Summit. pic.twitter.com/apfo2sEv9D — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) May 22, 2019 × Both sides also discussed how to celebrate the 70th year anniversary of India-China relations. On 1 April 1950, India became the first non-socialist bloc country to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. This is the first meeting between both the ministers after listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist at the United Nation. China prevented the listing of Azhar, the chief of Pakistan based United nations listed terror group--Jaish-e-Mohammad since 2009. On May 1, it finally relented, paving the way for his listing leading to an arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze on him. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met four times in 2018 starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan. The Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India for the second informal summit this year.

Ready to work with new government in India: Chinese foreign minister 

World leaders meeting in Beijing this week for a summit on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/will-sign-accord-backing-chinas-belt-and-road-initiative-switzerland-210910&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjCgOfLxeDhAhULSo8KHY8PAhcQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw07d5wX_sMgOF08GS4UGgOb">China's Belt and Road </a>initiative will agree to project financing that respects global debt goals and promotes green growth, according to a draft communique seen by Reuters.

The Belt and Road Initiative is a key policy of President Xi Jinping and envisions rebuilding the old Silk Road to connect China with Asia, Europe and beyond with massive infrastructure spending.

But it has proved controversial in many Western capitals, particularly Washington, which views it as merely a means to spread Chinese influence abroad and saddle countries with unsustainable debt through nontransparent projects.

The United States has been particularly critical of Italy`s decision to sign up to the plan last month, the first for a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-becomes-the-first-g7-nation-to-join-chinas-belt-and-road-initiative-205117&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjCgOfLxeDhAhULSo8KHY8PAhcQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0cZEgFaTvKXJjeQP2vVx4Z">G7 nation</a>.

In an apparent nod to these concerns, the communique reiterates promises reached at the last summit in 2017 for sustainable financing - but adds a line on debt, which was not included the last time.

"We support collaboration among national and international financial institutions to provide diversified and sustainable financial support for projects," the draft communique reads.&nbsp;

"We encourage local currency financing, the mutual establishment of financial institutions, and a greater role of development finance in line with respective national priorities, laws, regulations and international commitments, and the agreed principles by the UNGA on debt sustainability," it added, referring to the United Nations General Assembly.

The word "green" appears in the draft seven times. It was not mentioned once in the summit communique from two years ago.

"We underline the importance of promoting green development," the draft reads. "We encourage the development of green finance including the issuance of green bonds as well as the development of green technology."

The Chinese government`s top diplomat, Wang Yi, said on Friday that the Belt and Road project is not a "geopolitical tool" or a debt crisis for participating nations, but Beijing welcomes constructive suggestions on how to address concerns over the initiative.

A total of 37 foreign leaders are due to attend the April 25-27 summit, though the United States is only sending lower-level representatives, reflecting its unease over the scheme.

The number of foreign leaders at the April 25-27 summit is up from 29 last time, mainly from China`s closest allies like Pakistan and Russia but also Italy, Switzerland and Austria.

China has repeatedly said Belt and Road are for the benefit of the whole world, and that it is committed to upholding globally accepted norms in ensuring projects are transparent and win-win for all parties.

"We emphasise the importance of the rule of law and equal opportunities for all," the draft reads.

World leaders meeting in Beijing this week for a summit on China's Belt and Road initiative will agree to project financing that respects global debt goals and promotes green growth, according to a draft communique seen by Reuters.

World leaders meeting in Beijing this week for a summit on China's Belt and Road initiative will agree to project financing that respects global debt goals and promotes green growth, according to a draft communique seen by Reuters. The Belt and Road Initiative is a key policy of President Xi Jinping and envisions rebuilding the old Silk Road to connect China with Asia, Europe and beyond with massive infrastructure spending. But it has proved controversial in many Western capitals, particularly Washington, which views it as merely a means to spread Chinese influence abroad and saddle countries with unsustainable debt through nontransparent projects. The United States has been particularly critical of Italy`s decision to sign up to the plan last month, the first for a G7 nation. In an apparent nod to these concerns, the communique reiterates promises reached at the last summit in 2017 for sustainable financing - but adds a line on debt, which was not included the last time. "We support collaboration among national and international financial institutions to provide diversified and sustainable financial support for projects," the draft communique reads. "We encourage local currency financing, the mutual establishment of financial institutions, and a greater role of development finance in line with respective national priorities, laws, regulations and international commitments, and the agreed principles by the UNGA on debt sustainability," it added, referring to the United Nations General Assembly. The word "green" appears in the draft seven times. It was not mentioned once in the summit communique from two years ago. "We underline the importance of promoting green development," the draft reads. "We encourage the development of green finance including the issuance of green bonds as well as the development of green technology." The Chinese government`s top diplomat, Wang Yi, said on Friday that the Belt and Road project is not a "geopolitical tool" or a debt crisis for participating nations, but Beijing welcomes constructive suggestions on how to address concerns over the initiative. A total of 37 foreign leaders are due to attend the April 25-27 summit, though the United States is only sending lower-level representatives, reflecting its unease over the scheme. The number of foreign leaders at the April 25-27 summit is up from 29 last time, mainly from China`s closest allies like Pakistan and Russia but also Italy, Switzerland and Austria. China has repeatedly said Belt and Road are for the benefit of the whole world, and that it is committed to upholding globally accepted norms in ensuring projects are transparent and win-win for all parties. "We emphasise the importance of the rule of law and equal opportunities for all," the draft reads.

In nod to debt concerns, China Belt and Road summit to urge sustainable financing

India on Wednesday signalled that it will boycott <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/southeast-asia-wary-of-chinas-belt-and-road-project-sceptical-of-us-report-188706">China's second Belt and Road</a> Forum for a second time, saying no country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity.

India boycotted the first Belt and Road Forum (BRF) in 2017 after protesting to Beijing over the controversial China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which is being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) overriding New Delhi's sovereignty concerns.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently said that next month China plans to hold a much bigger, second BRF which will also be attended by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Speculation is rife whether India would attend the second BRF as China has deepened its commitment to expand the USD 60 billion CPEC, which aims to connect China's Xinjiang province with Pakistan's Gwadar port with a host of road, rail, gas and oil pipelines.

China has also undertaken a host of energy projects under the aegis of the CPEC.

India's Ambassador to China Vikram Misri told the state-run Global Times that "above all, connectivity initiatives must be pursued in a manner that respects the sovereignty, equality and territorial integrity of nations".

"No country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity," he replied to a question about India's concerns over the BRI and whether India would take part in the second BRF meet.

The Indian envoy's interview was carried by the daily on Wednesday.

"To be honest, we have made no secret of our views and our position on the BRI is clear and consistent and one that we have conveyed to the authorities concerned.

"India shares the global aspiration to strengthen connectivity and it is an integral part of our economic and diplomatic initiatives. We ourselves are working with many countries and international institutions in our region and beyond on a range of connectivity initiatives," Misri said.

"However, it is also our belief that connectivity initiatives must be based on universally recognised international norms, good governance and rule of law. They must emphasise social stability and environmental protection and preservation, promote skill and technology transfers and follow principles of openness, transparency and financial sustainability," the Indian envoy said.

India along with the US and several other countries have been highlighting the concerns over the BRI projects, leaving a number of smaller countries in debt traps.

The concerns grew louder after China took over Sri Lanka's Hambantota port on a 99-year lease as debt swap.

Several countries including Malaysia and even Pakistan have wished to reduce the Chinese projects over debt concerns.

Asked whether India-China ties are back on track, Misri said: "the bilateral relationship between India and China is of great significance not just to the two countries, but also to the larger region and the international community".

He said that the Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in April 2018 was a "milestone in bilateral relations during which the two leaders exchanged views on overarching issues of bilateral and global importance, and elaborated their respective visions and priorities for national development in context of the current international situation".

Last year, the two leaders also met on the sidelines of multilateral summits.

"These meetings have reinforced strategic communication between the two countries at the highest levels and helped in elaborating a road map for continuing contacts. China is India's biggest neighbour and we assign a very high priority to this relationship," the Indian envoy said.

"Unlike some 50 years ago, when our relationship had a much narrower basis and there was not much communication, today we have what one would call a full-spectrum relationship.

"This has been possible because our respective leaders have realised that mutually-beneficial cooperation responds to the most urgent developmental needs of our people and these needs to be prioritised over other issues," Misri said.

Asked about the impact of India's elections on India-China ties, Misri said: "my own feeling is that on foreign policy issues there is a broad political consensus in India on where our national interests lie. I do not think therefore that the outcome of the elections will impact the broad contours of India's foreign policy in general or the very important relationship with China in particular".&nbsp;

India on Wednesday signalled that it will boycott China's second Belt and Road Forum for a second time, saying no country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity.

India on Wednesday signalled that it will boycott China's second Belt and Road Forum for a second time, saying no country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity. India boycotted the first Belt and Road Forum (BRF) in 2017 after protesting to Beijing over the controversial China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which is being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) overriding New Delhi's sovereignty concerns. Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently said that next month China plans to hold a much bigger, second BRF which will also be attended by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Speculation is rife whether India would attend the second BRF as China has deepened its commitment to expand the USD 60 billion CPEC, which aims to connect China's Xinjiang province with Pakistan's Gwadar port with a host of road, rail, gas and oil pipelines. China has also undertaken a host of energy projects under the aegis of the CPEC. India's Ambassador to China Vikram Misri told the state-run Global Times that "above all, connectivity initiatives must be pursued in a manner that respects the sovereignty, equality and territorial integrity of nations". "No country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity," he replied to a question about India's concerns over the BRI and whether India would take part in the second BRF meet. The Indian envoy's interview was carried by the daily on Wednesday. "To be honest, we have made no secret of our views and our position on the BRI is clear and consistent and one that we have conveyed to the authorities concerned. "India shares the global aspiration to strengthen connectivity and it is an integral part of our economic and diplomatic initiatives. We ourselves are working with many countries and international institutions in our region and beyond on a range of connectivity initiatives," Misri said. "However, it is also our belief that connectivity initiatives must be based on universally recognised international norms, good governance and rule of law. They must emphasise social stability and environmental protection and preservation, promote skill and technology transfers and follow principles of openness, transparency and financial sustainability," the Indian envoy said. India along with the US and several other countries have been highlighting the concerns over the BRI projects, leaving a number of smaller countries in debt traps. The concerns grew louder after China took over Sri Lanka's Hambantota port on a 99-year lease as debt swap. Several countries including Malaysia and even Pakistan have wished to reduce the Chinese projects over debt concerns. Asked whether India-China ties are back on track, Misri said: "the bilateral relationship between India and China is of great significance not just to the two countries, but also to the larger region and the international community". He said that the Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in April 2018 was a "milestone in bilateral relations during which the two leaders exchanged views on overarching issues of bilateral and global importance, and elaborated their respective visions and priorities for national development in context of the current international situation". Last year, the two leaders also met on the sidelines of multilateral summits. "These meetings have reinforced strategic communication between the two countries at the highest levels and helped in elaborating a road map for continuing contacts. China is India's biggest neighbour and we assign a very high priority to this relationship," the Indian envoy said. "Unlike some 50 years ago, when our relationship had a much narrower basis and there was not much communication, today we have what one would call a full-spectrum relationship. "This has been possible because our respective leaders have realised that mutually-beneficial cooperation responds to the most urgent developmental needs of our people and these needs to be prioritised over other issues," Misri said. Asked about the impact of India's elections on India-China ties, Misri said: "my own feeling is that on foreign policy issues there is a broad political consensus in India on where our national interests lie. I do not think therefore that the outcome of the elections will impact the broad contours of India's foreign policy in general or the very important relationship with China in particular".

India may boycott China's Belt and Road Forum for second time

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Tuesday hailed China's support to his country in the challenging times and said Islamabad was committed to the expeditious implementation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Qureshi also appreciated the Chinese stand that there should be no double standards in combating terrorism as he thanked Beijing for its support to Pakistan in international fora on the issue of tackling the menace.

He made the remarks during the first-ever China-Pakistan Foreign Minister-level strategic dialogue, which was attended by his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

In his opening remarks, Qureshi acknowledged that China has been "helpful in these challenging times for Pakistan", in an apparent reference to the multi-billion dollar Chinese financial assistance to Pakistan, which is going through a "low point", to minimise its dependence on an IMF bailout package.

"The Chinese government was very generous in supporting Pakistan. We had good discussions...We are committed to expeditious implementation of CPEC," Qureshi said.

The CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, is the flagship project of Chinese President Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

"There is a national consensus that this project is not simply beneficial to Pakistan and China but also the entire region and has a far-reaching impact," he said.

"Obviously, our leaders have set huge agenda for us and they have entrusted us to implement their vision and that we intend to do," Qureshi said as he informed his Chinese counterpart about Prime Minister Imran Khan's desire to attend the 2nd Belt and Road Forum in Beijing next month.

China will host a second global meeting on its ambitious Belt and Road Initiative in Beijing in April.

The BRI includes USD 60-billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor which India opposes as it traverses through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. 
 
The US, India and several other countries have raised concerns over the BRI as China doled out huge loans to smaller countries for infrastructure projects without taking into consideration their ability to pay back the money. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Tuesday hailed China's support to his country in the challenging times and said Islamabad was committed to the expeditious implementation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Tuesday hailed China's support to his country in the challenging times and said Islamabad was committed to the expeditious implementation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Qureshi also appreciated the Chinese stand that there should be no double standards in combating terrorism as he thanked Beijing for its support to Pakistan in international fora on the issue of tackling the menace. He made the remarks during the first-ever China-Pakistan Foreign Minister-level strategic dialogue, which was attended by his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. In his opening remarks, Qureshi acknowledged that China has been "helpful in these challenging times for Pakistan", in an apparent reference to the multi-billion dollar Chinese financial assistance to Pakistan, which is going through a "low point", to minimise its dependence on an IMF bailout package. "The Chinese government was very generous in supporting Pakistan. We had good discussions...We are committed to expeditious implementation of CPEC," Qureshi said. The CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, is the flagship project of Chinese President Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). "There is a national consensus that this project is not simply beneficial to Pakistan and China but also the entire region and has a far-reaching impact," he said. "Obviously, our leaders have set huge agenda for us and they have entrusted us to implement their vision and that we intend to do," Qureshi said as he informed his Chinese counterpart about Prime Minister Imran Khan's desire to attend the 2nd Belt and Road Forum in Beijing next month. China will host a second global meeting on its ambitious Belt and Road Initiative in Beijing in April. The BRI includes USD 60-billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor which India opposes as it traverses through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The US, India and several other countries have raised concerns over the BRI as China doled out huge loans to smaller countries for infrastructure projects without taking into consideration their ability to pay back the money.

Pakistan: Foreign minister Mahmood Qureshi hails China's support in challenging times

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in on Friday welcomed de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan that were on the rise since the Pulwama attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama region. However, the Chinese foreign minister made no&nbsp;mention of Pakistan support's to terrorism on its soil.

Addressing the annual presser in Beijing,&nbsp;Wang Yi said, "China has played a constructive role and both India and Pakistan have indicated the desire to de-escalate and we welcome this."

The foreign minister also did not make any comments on the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar under the UN terror list.&nbsp;

The development comes in the backdrop of India Pakistan tensions. Last week in response to India's anti-terror operation in Balakot, Pakistan launched strikes on Indian military installations.&nbsp;

Wan Yi also called 2018 a year of "great significance for China India relations" and added, cooperation between the two countries should "surge ahead like Ganga and the Yangtze giving a strong and sustained impetus to our relationship."

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping both have met four times in 2018 starting with the famous Wuhan informal summit in April to the last meeting on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina.

Wang Yi said, "Over the past year government departments on both sides have done a lot and made considerable progress in following through on many of the understandings reached between our leaders. The priority now is that strategic understanding of our leaders trickles down to our common people".

Chinese President will be coming to India in 2019 for the second informal summit between both countries.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in on Friday welcomed de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan that were on the rise since the Pulwama attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama region.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in on Friday welcomed de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan that were on the rise since the Pulwama attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama region. However, the Chinese foreign minister made no mention of Pakistan support's to terrorism on its soil. Addressing the annual presser in Beijing, Wang Yi said, "China has played a constructive role and both India and Pakistan have indicated the desire to de-escalate and we welcome this." The foreign minister also did not make any comments on the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar under the UN terror list. The development comes in the backdrop of India Pakistan tensions. Last week in response to India's anti-terror operation in Balakot, Pakistan launched strikes on Indian military installations. Wan Yi also called 2018 a year of "great significance for China India relations" and added, cooperation between the two countries should "surge ahead like Ganga and the Yangtze giving a strong and sustained impetus to our relationship." The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping both have met four times in 2018 starting with the famous Wuhan informal summit in April to the last meeting on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina. Wang Yi said, "Over the past year government departments on both sides have done a lot and made considerable progress in following through on many of the understandings reached between our leaders. The priority now is that strategic understanding of our leaders trickles down to our common people". Chinese President will be coming to India in 2019 for the second informal summit between both countries.

China welcomes de-escalation of Indo-Pak tensions; makes no mention of Masood Azhar in annual presser

A day after Indian Air Force carried out airstrikes targeting terror launch pads in Pakistan's Balakot, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Wuzhen.&nbsp;

Swaraj reportedly raised Pulwama terror attack in her meeting with the Chinese foreign minister, reported news agency PTI.&nbsp;

"I am visiting China at a time when there is grief and anger in India. It is the worst terrorist attack directed against our security forces in Jammu and Kashmir," she said in her opening remarks during the meeting held on the side-lines of Russia, India, China Foreign Ministers meeting.&nbsp;

"The attack was carried out by Jaish-e-Muhammed, the Pakistan-based and supported terrorist organisation," she said.&nbsp;

Forty Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in a suicide attack by Pakistan-based JeM in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14, sparking outrage in the country.

Stating that the JeM is banned by the UN and other countries, Swaraj told Wang that this terrorist attack is the direct result of the impunity and cover provided to the JeM and its leaders by the Pakistani side.

After the Pulwama attack the entire UN has spoken with full voice to condemn it, she said.&nbsp;

Swaraj who arrived here early this morning told Wang that this is their first meeting this year and therefore an opportune time for the two sides to take stock of the bilateral relations and look ahead for cooperation.

''This is our first meeting this year. Therefore, an opportune time for us to take stock of our bilateral relations and look ahead for cooperation. The India-China relationship is an important relationship for both of our countries,'' she said.&nbsp;

Swaraj met the Chinese foreign minister ahead of 16th Foreign Ministers Meeting of Russia-India-China (RIC) at the scenic town in China.

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She will also hold bilateral discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, besides the Chinese Foreign Minister, according to ANI.&nbsp;

(With agencies inputs)

A day after Indian Air Force carried out airstrikes targeting terror launch pads in Pakistan's Balakot, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Wuzhen.

A day after Indian Air Force carried out airstrikes targeting terror launch pads in Pakistan's Balakot, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Wuzhen. Swaraj reportedly raised Pulwama terror attack in her meeting with the Chinese foreign minister, reported news agency PTI. "I am visiting China at a time when there is grief and anger in India. It is the worst terrorist attack directed against our security forces in Jammu and Kashmir," she said in her opening remarks during the meeting held on the side-lines of Russia, India, China Foreign Ministers meeting. "The attack was carried out by Jaish-e-Muhammed, the Pakistan-based and supported terrorist organisation," she said. Forty Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in a suicide attack by Pakistan-based JeM in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14, sparking outrage in the country. Stating that the JeM is banned by the UN and other countries, Swaraj told Wang that this terrorist attack is the direct result of the impunity and cover provided to the JeM and its leaders by the Pakistani side. After the Pulwama attack the entire UN has spoken with full voice to condemn it, she said. Swaraj who arrived here early this morning told Wang that this is their first meeting this year and therefore an opportune time for the two sides to take stock of the bilateral relations and look ahead for cooperation. ''This is our first meeting this year. Therefore, an opportune time for us to take stock of our bilateral relations and look ahead for cooperation. The India-China relationship is an important relationship for both of our countries,'' she said. Swaraj met the Chinese foreign minister ahead of 16th Foreign Ministers Meeting of Russia-India-China (RIC) at the scenic town in China. #WATCH China: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj meets her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Wuzhen. pic.twitter.com/RDLfXz6cqV — ANI (@ANI) February 27, 2019 × She will also hold bilateral discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, besides the Chinese Foreign Minister, according to ANI. (With agencies inputs)

Sushma Swaraj raises Pulwama terror attack with Chinese counterpart: Report

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-president-ashraf-ghani-meets-pakistan-foreign-minister-qureshi-186178">Senior Chinese and Pakistani diplomats </a>discussed on Tuesday "new changes" to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/strongly-support-afghan-led-afghan-owned-peace-process-china-pakistan-186354">the situation in Afghanistan</a>, China`s foreign ministry said, amid plans by the United States to withdraw about half of the 14,000 US troops based in the country.

US officials have told Reuters that President Donald Trump has issued verbal orders to plan for a drawdown of close to 7,000 US troops. The White House and the Pentagon have not yet commented publicly.

China, a close ally of Pakistan, has been deepening its economic and political ties with Kabul and is using its influence to try to bring the two uneasy neighbours closer.

Meeting in Beijing, the Chinese government`s top diplomat State Councillor Wang Yi and Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had a "deep discussion about new changes to the situation in Afghanistan and reached a broad consensus", China`s Foreign Ministry said.

"Both sides believe that military means cannot resolve the Afghanistan issue, and promoting political reconciliation is the only realistic way," the ministry said in its short statement.

"The two sides welcome the various efforts made by all parties and are willing to maintain close communication and strategic coordination."

There was no direct mention of the planned US troop drawdown.&nbsp;

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying, speaking at a daily news briefing, reiterated the statement and did not answer a question on whether the meeting was connected to the US troop withdrawal.

Wang visited Kabul earlier this month, where he pledged to help Afghanistan and Pakistan overcome their longstanding suspicions of each other.

China has long worried about the effect of instability in Afghanistan on China`s violence-prone far western region of Xinjiang, home to the mostly Muslim Uighur people and where China says it faces a threat from Islamist militants.

Senior Chinese and Pakistani diplomats discussed on Tuesday "new changes" to the situation in Afghanistan, China`s foreign ministry said, amid plans by the United States to withdraw about half of the 14,000 US troops based in the country.

Senior Chinese and Pakistani diplomats discussed on Tuesday "new changes" to the situation in Afghanistan, China`s foreign ministry said, amid plans by the United States to withdraw about half of the 14,000 US troops based in the country. US officials have told Reuters that President Donald Trump has issued verbal orders to plan for a drawdown of close to 7,000 US troops. The White House and the Pentagon have not yet commented publicly. China, a close ally of Pakistan, has been deepening its economic and political ties with Kabul and is using its influence to try to bring the two uneasy neighbours closer. Meeting in Beijing, the Chinese government`s top diplomat State Councillor Wang Yi and Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had a "deep discussion about new changes to the situation in Afghanistan and reached a broad consensus", China`s Foreign Ministry said. "Both sides believe that military means cannot resolve the Afghanistan issue, and promoting political reconciliation is the only realistic way," the ministry said in its short statement. "The two sides welcome the various efforts made by all parties and are willing to maintain close communication and strategic coordination." There was no direct mention of the planned US troop drawdown. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying, speaking at a daily news briefing, reiterated the statement and did not answer a question on whether the meeting was connected to the US troop withdrawal. Wang visited Kabul earlier this month, where he pledged to help Afghanistan and Pakistan overcome their longstanding suspicions of each other. China has long worried about the effect of instability in Afghanistan on China`s violence-prone far western region of Xinjiang, home to the mostly Muslim Uighur people and where China says it faces a threat from Islamist militants.

China, Pakistan discuss 'new changes' to situation in Afghanistan

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday in Moscow and the two leaders discussed the progress on Afghan peace process and the recent developments in the region.

Qureshi, who arrived here early wednesday on the last leg of his four-nation tour, also talked about the bilateral and regional situation.

"On the final leg of his tour to regional countries, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi held discussions with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov," Foreign Office Spokesperson Mohammad Faisal tweeted.

He said that bilateral and regional situation especially progress on Afghan peace and reconciliation discussed.

Russia last month hosted Afghan peace talks that were attended by delegations of the Taliban, the Afghan government and global stakeholders. A Pakistani delegation had also attended the peace talks.

So far Qureshi has visited Kabul, Tehran and Beijing, where he met his counterparts and other high-ranking officials.

In Kabul, he met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani on Monday and later dashed to Iran to meet his counterpart Javad Zarif.

During his meetings in Afghanistan, Qureshi stressed the importance of peace in the war-torn nation for regional stability and renewed Pakistan's commitment to assist in the process.

With Zarif on his trip to Tehran on the same day, the foreign minister discussed bilateral relations and regional situation. Both officials agreed on the importance of improved bilateral relations between the two countries.

On Tuesday, Qureshi was in Beijing and met Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and discussed the latest situation in Afghanistan.

China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying told a media briefing in Beijing on Tuesday that both sides reiterated their determination to adopt a joint course of action for regional peace and stability, to promote connectivity and work for Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.

Diplomatic sources said Qureshi briefed his hosts about Pakistan's efforts to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table in order to achieve peace in war-torn Afghanistan.

In a sudden move, President Donald Trump last week announced his decision to pull around half of the 14,000 US troops stationed in Afghanistan. The move has stunned and dismayed allies, diplomats and officials in Kabul. The announcement comes during a renewed push for talks with the Taliban to end the 17-year war.

Last week, Pakistan brokered a meeting between the US and the Taliban in Abu Dhabi in a bid to pave the way for reviving the peace process that has remained stalled since 2015, Dawn reported.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday in Moscow and the two leaders discussed the progress on Afghan peace process and the recent developments in the region.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday in Moscow and the two leaders discussed the progress on Afghan peace process and the recent developments in the region. Qureshi, who arrived here early wednesday on the last leg of his four-nation tour, also talked about the bilateral and regional situation. "On the final leg of his tour to regional countries, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi held discussions with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov," Foreign Office Spokesperson Mohammad Faisal tweeted. He said that bilateral and regional situation especially progress on Afghan peace and reconciliation discussed. Russia last month hosted Afghan peace talks that were attended by delegations of the Taliban, the Afghan government and global stakeholders. A Pakistani delegation had also attended the peace talks. So far Qureshi has visited Kabul, Tehran and Beijing, where he met his counterparts and other high-ranking officials. In Kabul, he met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani on Monday and later dashed to Iran to meet his counterpart Javad Zarif. During his meetings in Afghanistan, Qureshi stressed the importance of peace in the war-torn nation for regional stability and renewed Pakistan's commitment to assist in the process. With Zarif on his trip to Tehran on the same day, the foreign minister discussed bilateral relations and regional situation. Both officials agreed on the importance of improved bilateral relations between the two countries. On Tuesday, Qureshi was in Beijing and met Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and discussed the latest situation in Afghanistan. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying told a media briefing in Beijing on Tuesday that both sides reiterated their determination to adopt a joint course of action for regional peace and stability, to promote connectivity and work for Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process. Diplomatic sources said Qureshi briefed his hosts about Pakistan's efforts to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table in order to achieve peace in war-torn Afghanistan. In a sudden move, President Donald Trump last week announced his decision to pull around half of the 14,000 US troops stationed in Afghanistan. The move has stunned and dismayed allies, diplomats and officials in Kabul. The announcement comes during a renewed push for talks with the Taliban to end the 17-year war. Last week, Pakistan brokered a meeting between the US and the Taliban in Abu Dhabi in a bid to pave the way for reviving the peace process that has remained stalled since 2015, Dawn reported.

Pakistan: Foreign minister Qureshi discusses Afghan peace process with Lavrov in Moscow

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/good-momentum-achieved-in-relations-with-india-china-186424">Good momentum achieved in relations with India: China</a>

A day after Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi concluded his India visit, China's foreign ministry said a good momentum has been achieved in the current China-India relations.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modi-takes-a-walk-ridges-on-bogibeel-bridge-in-assam-186371">Watch: PM Modi takes a walk, rides on Bogibeel bridge in Assam</a>

PM Modi today inaugurated the rail-road bridge over the Brahmaputra river at Bogibeel near Dibrugarh in Assam today.

The 4.94 km bridge has double line broad gauge rail tracks and upper deck road spread in three lanes. The bridge connects Assam's Dibrugarh to Nharlgun in Itanagar in just four hours.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-bcci-announces-playing-xi-for-boxing-day-test-186410">IND vs AUS: BCCI announces playing XI for Boxing Day Test</a>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced the playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against Australia.

In the list, both openers Murali Vijay and KL Rahul have been dropped while rookies Hanuma Vihari and debutant Mayank Agarwal will be given the opportunity to open, according to Reuters.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rat-hole-mining-rampant-in-meghalaya-despite-ngt-ban-15-labours-still-trapped-186369">After two weeks, 15 miners still trapped in Meghalaya; search operation suspended</a>

There seems to be no hope at the end of the tunnel for the 15 labourers trapped in a coal mine a fortnight ago, as search operations have been suspended by the Meghalaya government for want of high-powered pumps to flush out water from the pit.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/attackers-hit-libya-foreign-ministry-in-tripoli-one-dead-186382">Watch: Attackers hit Libya foreign ministry in Tripoli; 3 dead</a>

Gunfire and explosions rocked Libya's foreign ministry on Tuesday as attackers stormed the building in the capital Tripoli, killing at least three people.

A car bomb exploded in front of the ministry, after which "three or four assailants" entered, the source told AFP from the scene.

Good momentum achieved in relations with India: China A day after Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi concluded his India visit, China's foreign ministry said a good momentum has been achieved in the current China-India relations.

Good momentum achieved in relations with India: China A day after Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi concluded his India visit, China's foreign ministry said a good momentum has been achieved in the current China-India relations. Watch: PM Modi takes a walk, rides on Bogibeel bridge in Assam PM Modi today inaugurated the rail-road bridge over the Brahmaputra river at Bogibeel near Dibrugarh in Assam today. The 4.94 km bridge has double line broad gauge rail tracks and upper deck road spread in three lanes. The bridge connects Assam's Dibrugarh to Nharlgun in Itanagar in just four hours. IND vs AUS: BCCI announces playing XI for Boxing Day Test The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced the playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against Australia. In the list, both openers Murali Vijay and KL Rahul have been dropped while rookies Hanuma Vihari and debutant Mayank Agarwal will be given the opportunity to open, according to Reuters. After two weeks, 15 miners still trapped in Meghalaya; search operation suspended There seems to be no hope at the end of the tunnel for the 15 labourers trapped in a coal mine a fortnight ago, as search operations have been suspended by the Meghalaya government for want of high-powered pumps to flush out water from the pit. Watch: Attackers hit Libya foreign ministry in Tripoli; 3 dead Gunfire and explosions rocked Libya's foreign ministry on Tuesday as attackers stormed the building in the capital Tripoli, killing at least three people. A car bomb exploded in front of the ministry, after which "three or four assailants" entered, the source told AFP from the scene.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met his Chinese counterpart, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in Beijing on December 25. A statement issued by the two sides said they conducted an in-depth exchange of views on the "entire spectrum of bilateral relations and regional matters" including the situation in Afghanistan.

The statement quoted Qureshi as saying the "All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership" between Pakistan and China "is deeply rooted in mutual trust and respect".&nbsp;

While discussing the evolving political dynamic in Afghanistan, the two sides underscored their commonality of views on the matter. Qureshi said that as neighbouring countries and friends of Afghanistan, Pakistan and China strongly support the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.&nbsp;

He also appreciated China’s role in the furtherance of peace and development in Afghanistan, particularly through the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan trilateral mechanism.

Qureshi added that CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) has added an important dimension to bilateral ties.&nbsp;

Yi in return thanked Pakistan for its efforts at peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

He said China attaches "paramount importance" to its relations with Pakistan and underlined that the "time-tested partnership between the two countries is based on mutual respect, trust and the strong bonds of friendship".&nbsp;

Both leaders agreed that the "highly successful" visit of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had set the tone for further expanding that friendship.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met his Chinese counterpart, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in Beijing on December 25. A statement issued by the two sides said they conducted an in-depth exchange of views on the "entire spectrum of bilateral relations and regional matters" including the situation in Afghanistan.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met his Chinese counterpart, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in Beijing on December 25. A statement issued by the two sides said they conducted an in-depth exchange of views on the "entire spectrum of bilateral relations and regional matters" including the situation in Afghanistan. The statement quoted Qureshi as saying the "All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership" between Pakistan and China "is deeply rooted in mutual trust and respect". While discussing the evolving political dynamic in Afghanistan, the two sides underscored their commonality of views on the matter. Qureshi said that as neighbouring countries and friends of Afghanistan, Pakistan and China strongly support the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process. He also appreciated China’s role in the furtherance of peace and development in Afghanistan, particularly through the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan trilateral mechanism. Qureshi added that CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) has added an important dimension to bilateral ties. Yi in return thanked Pakistan for its efforts at peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan. He said China attaches "paramount importance" to its relations with Pakistan and underlined that the "time-tested partnership between the two countries is based on mutual respect, trust and the strong bonds of friendship". Both leaders agreed that the "highly successful" visit of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had set the tone for further expanding that friendship.

Strongly support Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace process: China, Pakistan

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - December 22nd, 2018

Eyeing a new chapter in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wuhan-was-a-milestone-pm-modi-president-xi-have-personal-connect-sushma-swaraj-185698">Sino-India ties</a>, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday held extensive talks under a new set up framework and agreed on "ten pillars" of cooperation to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

In her media statement, Swaraj said the armies of the two countries are working to strengthen communication and striving to implement confidence-building measures that will help in maintaining peace and tranquillity in border areas, which she said, is an important prerequisite for development of ties.

Referring to trade ties, Swaraj said there was a need to find a solution to India's expanding trade deficit with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sino-india-ties-actively-moving-forward-president-xi-185704">China</a> and hoped that China will provide support for market access to Indian goods and services.

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MEA: EAM Sushma Swaraj &amp; Chinese State Councilor &amp; FM Wang Yi jointly inaugurated a Photo Exhibition at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra portraying the various facets of enhanced exchanges between India &amp; China. <a href="https://t.co/4mOPPMl2QA">pic.twitter.com/4mOPPMl2QA</a>
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Swaraj said the special relationship between the two countries is not only important for the region but also for the world. "At a time of global uncertainty, the relationship between the two countries are a factor of stability," she said.

In their talks under the 'High Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges', the two foreign ministers deliberated for around two hours on ways to boost people-to-people contact and cultural exchanges between the two neighbours.

The setting up of the new mechanism was decided upon during the Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping.

"Our leaders had realised that unless we have better people-to-people cooperation, we cannot have close cooperation between the two countries," said Swaraj.

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Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi: We agreed to leverage strengths in respective fields. People to people exchanges should be of the people and for the people. It is a major initiative in the history of India and China relations. <a href="https://t.co/ilVvycgB0G">pic.twitter.com/ilVvycgB0G</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1076050084666589185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"I am very happy over outcome of our talks... I am confident that the new mechanism will help both the countries in building greater synergies in bilateral ties," she said in her media statement in the presence of Wang.&nbsp;

Since the resolution of the Doklam face-off, the two countries have taken a series of measures to enhance overall ties.

Wang, who arrived here early Friday morning, said he had a "very successful" meeting with Swaraj.

"India-China relations have reached a new historical stage," he said at the inaugural session of 3rd India-China High Level Media Forum.

Swaraj said she and Wang held a series of bilateral meetings in the last few years and talks on people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges were for not more than 10 minutes in each of the meetings.&nbsp;

"But today, the meeting was very unique and very different. And the reason for it was that we focused on two subjects during the two-hour deliberations -- people-to-people relations and cultural exchanges," she said.

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EAM Sushma Swaraj at 3rd India-China High-Level Media Forum Inaugural Session: I'm satisfied with the quality of discussion today.Ten priorities we discussed include enhancing cooperation in films, education, tourism, art, yoga, media, culture, sports, academic &amp; youth exchanges <a href="https://t.co/GzWnMgRPud">pic.twitter.com/GzWnMgRPud</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1076052889565609986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Swaraj said India and China have agreed on '10 pillars' of cooperation to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

These pillars are cultural exchange, cooperation in films and television, museum administration and sports, exchanges between youths, cooperation on tourism, exchanges between states and cities, cooperation in traditional medicine, yoga and education.

Swaraj said both sides made good progress in ties in 2018 and an ambitious agenda is being prepared for next year.

"We are confident that the visit of Xi Jinping to India next year for the second informal summit will add another new facet to our continuously expanding ties," Swaraj said.&nbsp;

Wang described the new mechanism for cultural and people-to-people exchanges as a "major initiative" in the history of India-China ties.&nbsp;

Eyeing a new chapter in Sino-India ties, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday held extensive talks under a new set up framework and agreed on "ten pillars" of cooperation to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

Eyeing a new chapter in Sino-India ties, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday held extensive talks under a new set up framework and agreed on "ten pillars" of cooperation to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges. In her media statement, Swaraj said the armies of the two countries are working to strengthen communication and striving to implement confidence-building measures that will help in maintaining peace and tranquillity in border areas, which she said, is an important prerequisite for development of ties. Referring to trade ties, Swaraj said there was a need to find a solution to India's expanding trade deficit with China and hoped that China will provide support for market access to Indian goods and services. MEA: EAM Sushma Swaraj & Chinese State Councilor & FM Wang Yi jointly inaugurated a Photo Exhibition at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra portraying the various facets of enhanced exchanges between India & China. pic.twitter.com/4mOPPMl2QA — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2018 × Swaraj said the special relationship between the two countries is not only important for the region but also for the world. "At a time of global uncertainty, the relationship between the two countries are a factor of stability," she said. In their talks under the 'High Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges', the two foreign ministers deliberated for around two hours on ways to boost people-to-people contact and cultural exchanges between the two neighbours. The setting up of the new mechanism was decided upon during the Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping. "Our leaders had realised that unless we have better people-to-people cooperation, we cannot have close cooperation between the two countries," said Swaraj. Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi: We agreed to leverage strengths in respective fields. People to people exchanges should be of the people and for the people. It is a major initiative in the history of India and China relations. pic.twitter.com/ilVvycgB0G — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2018 × "I am very happy over outcome of our talks... I am confident that the new mechanism will help both the countries in building greater synergies in bilateral ties," she said in her media statement in the presence of Wang. Since the resolution of the Doklam face-off, the two countries have taken a series of measures to enhance overall ties. Wang, who arrived here early Friday morning, said he had a "very successful" meeting with Swaraj. "India-China relations have reached a new historical stage," he said at the inaugural session of 3rd India-China High Level Media Forum. Swaraj said she and Wang held a series of bilateral meetings in the last few years and talks on people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges were for not more than 10 minutes in each of the meetings. "But today, the meeting was very unique and very different. And the reason for it was that we focused on two subjects during the two-hour deliberations -- people-to-people relations and cultural exchanges," she said. EAM Sushma Swaraj at 3rd India-China High-Level Media Forum Inaugural Session: I'm satisfied with the quality of discussion today.Ten priorities we discussed include enhancing cooperation in films, education, tourism, art, yoga, media, culture, sports, academic & youth exchanges pic.twitter.com/GzWnMgRPud — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2018 × Swaraj said India and China have agreed on '10 pillars' of cooperation to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges. These pillars are cultural exchange, cooperation in films and television, museum administration and sports, exchanges between youths, cooperation on tourism, exchanges between states and cities, cooperation in traditional medicine, yoga and education. Swaraj said both sides made good progress in ties in 2018 and an ambitious agenda is being prepared for next year. "We are confident that the visit of Xi Jinping to India next year for the second informal summit will add another new facet to our continuously expanding ties," Swaraj said. Wang described the new mechanism for cultural and people-to-people exchanges as a "major initiative" in the history of India-China ties.

India-China relations have reached new historical stage: Chinese foreign minister

Tibetans protest Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi's India visit

Afghanistan on Saturday hosted a three-way meeting with Pakistan and China to discuss trade and development in the country with a focus on counter-terrorism cooperation.&nbsp;

The foreign minister of three countries,&nbsp;Shah Mahmood Qureshi,&nbsp;Wang Yi and Afghan counterpart Salahuddin Rabbani signed a Memorandum of Understanding on anti-terrorism cooperation in Kabul.

During the inaugural speech of the trilateral dialogue, Rabbani said that collective efforts are required to address the common challenge of terrorism.

He also said that Pakistan-Afghan relations are rooted in common faith and culture and added that he desire to strengthen their relations.

Reaffirming commitment to eradicate terrorism, Pakistan foreign minister Qureshi&nbsp;said,&nbsp;"better border management between Pakistan and Afghanistan and intelligence sharing will be greatly beneficial for both countries."

This was the second round of the trilateral dialogue Beijing initiated last year to help ease political tensions between Islamabad and Kabul.&nbsp;

Qureshi is also expected to meet Afghan President Ashraf Ghani during his visit. This is his second&nbsp;visit to Afghanistan&nbsp;since assuming office this year.

Pakistan and Afghanistan are trying to improve ties despite lingering suspicions and mistrust about each other.&nbsp;

The Taliban are fighting to flush out international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001.&nbsp;

China, a close ally of Pakistan, has lent tens of billions of dollars to Pakistan and the two have forged close economic ties as part of Beijing's "One Belt, One Road" policy of expanding trade links across Asia.

 
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Afghanistan on Saturday hosted a three-way meeting with Pakistan and China to discuss trade and development in the country with a focus on counter-terrorism cooperation.

Afghanistan on Saturday hosted a three-way meeting with Pakistan and China to discuss trade and development in the country with a focus on counter-terrorism cooperation. The foreign minister of three countries, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Wang Yi and Afghan counterpart Salahuddin Rabbani signed a Memorandum of Understanding on anti-terrorism cooperation in Kabul. During the inaugural speech of the trilateral dialogue, Rabbani said that collective efforts are required to address the common challenge of terrorism. He also said that Pakistan-Afghan relations are rooted in common faith and culture and added that he desire to strengthen their relations. Reaffirming commitment to eradicate terrorism, Pakistan foreign minister Qureshi said, "better border management between Pakistan and Afghanistan and intelligence sharing will be greatly beneficial for both countries." This was the second round of the trilateral dialogue Beijing initiated last year to help ease political tensions between Islamabad and Kabul. Qureshi is also expected to meet Afghan President Ashraf Ghani during his visit. This is his second visit to Afghanistan since assuming office this year. Pakistan and Afghanistan are trying to improve ties despite lingering suspicions and mistrust about each other. The Taliban are fighting to flush out international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001. China, a close ally of Pakistan, has lent tens of billions of dollars to Pakistan and the two have forged close economic ties as part of Beijing's "One Belt, One Road" policy of expanding trade links across Asia.

Afghanistan holds second round of trilateral dialogue with Pakistan, China

The first meeting of the newly constituted India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges will take place on December 21. The meeting will be co-chaired by India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Remember, this was one of the outcomes agreed upon during the Wuhan informal summit which took place in China earlier this year.&nbsp;

According to the Ministry of External Affairs release, "the High-Level Mechanism reflects the desire on both the sides to build greater synergies in the people-to-people ties between the two countries through enhanced exchanges in areas such as tourism, art, films, media, culture, sports and academic and youth exchanges."

The release added that the High-Level Mechanism "will bring all the existing bilateral cultural and people-to-people engagements between India and China under one umbrella and, thus, add more substance and purpose to the efforts on both sides to promote greater cultural and people-to-people exchanges between them."

Several events will also be held on the sidelines of the meeting of the High-Level Mechanism, including an India-China think tanks forum and a High-Level media forum.

This year saw Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping meeting for a record four times. They first met at the Informal Wuhan Summit in China, followed by a meeting during the Shanghai Cooperation Summit in China and BRICS summit in South Africa. The two leaders finally met in Argentina on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The development comes in the backdrop of the worst stand-off between Indian and Chinese forces at the Doklam Plateau in Bhutan.

During the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-summit-in-wuhan-removed-several-misconceptions-between-india-and-china-indian-envoy-177673">informal meet in China's Wuhan</a>, India and China also agreed on taking up joint projects in Afghanistan. The first one was the joint training of Afghan Diplomats in Delhi and Bejing which took place in the month of April.&nbsp;

India and China, earlier this month, resumed the joint military exercise "Hand In Hand" in which Indian and Chinese forces were seen sharing lighter moments and doing the Bhangra together.&nbsp;

The first meeting of the newly constituted India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges will take place on December 21. The meeting will be co-chaired by India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

The first meeting of the newly constituted India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges will take place on December 21. The meeting will be co-chaired by India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Remember, this was one of the outcomes agreed upon during the Wuhan informal summit which took place in China earlier this year. According to the Ministry of External Affairs release, "the High-Level Mechanism reflects the desire on both the sides to build greater synergies in the people-to-people ties between the two countries through enhanced exchanges in areas such as tourism, art, films, media, culture, sports and academic and youth exchanges." The release added that the High-Level Mechanism "will bring all the existing bilateral cultural and people-to-people engagements between India and China under one umbrella and, thus, add more substance and purpose to the efforts on both sides to promote greater cultural and people-to-people exchanges between them." Several events will also be held on the sidelines of the meeting of the High-Level Mechanism, including an India-China think tanks forum and a High-Level media forum. This year saw Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping meeting for a record four times. They first met at the Informal Wuhan Summit in China, followed by a meeting during the Shanghai Cooperation Summit in China and BRICS summit in South Africa. The two leaders finally met in Argentina on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The development comes in the backdrop of the worst stand-off between Indian and Chinese forces at the Doklam Plateau in Bhutan. During the informal meet in China's Wuhan, India and China also agreed on taking up joint projects in Afghanistan. The first one was the joint training of Afghan Diplomats in Delhi and Bejing which took place in the month of April. India and China, earlier this month, resumed the joint military exercise "Hand In Hand" in which Indian and Chinese forces were seen sharing lighter moments and doing the Bhangra together.

Indian, Chinese foreign ministers to meet in Delhi on December 21

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the 21st round of border talks in China's southwestern Sichuan province on Saturday, officials said.

Besides the border dispute, the two senior officials at the picturesque Dujiangyan city, would also review the progress made in bilateral ties since the Wuhan Summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in April, officials said.

Doval and Wang are the designated special representatives for border talks between India and China. The talks were expected to be concluded later Saturday.

This is the first round of talks for Wang after he succeeded State Councillor Yang Jiechi earlier this year. Wang has become the state councillor, a rank higher than the foreign minister in the Chinese government's hierarchy.

Announcing the talks on November 21, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang presented an upbeat picture of the bilateral ties saying, "We have properly managed the differences through dialogue and consultation. The border areas on the whole maintained stability".

Officials maintain that this round of talks may focus more on reviewing the progress on trade and maintenance of peace at borders than movement towards a solution to the border dispute as India is headed for general elections next year.

Since the first-ever "informal summit" between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi in Wuhan, the two countries have launched a dialogue between trade officials to enhance India's exports to China to address the over $ 51-billion trade deficit.

Since then, progress has been made towards increasing India's export of rice, sugar and pharmaceuticals. This is expected to come under review at the talks, officials said.

Negotiations between the special representatives are regarded highly significant by both the countries as they cover all aspects of bilateral ties besides making efforts to resolve the vexed border dispute.

The India-China border dispute covers 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control. China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of southern Tibet.

The last round, held in New Delhi between Doval and Yang, took place in the backdrop of the 73-day standoff between the two militaries at Doklam over

Chinese army's plan to build a road close to India's strategic "Chicken's Neck" corridor connecting the north-eastern states.

The standoff ended after the People's Liberation Army halted the plans to build the road.

Officials on both sides say a lot of spadework has been done to ensure peace and tranquillity at the border, though the solution to the border dispute is still elusive even after 20 rounds of talks.

Senior defence officials of India and China held the 9th India-China Annual Defence and Security Dialogue in Beijing on November 13 after a one-year gap due to the Doklam standoff. During the meeting, both sides agreed to enhance defence exchanges and interactions.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the 21st round of border talks in China's southwestern Sichuan province on Saturday, officials said.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the 21st round of border talks in China's southwestern Sichuan province on Saturday, officials said. Besides the border dispute, the two senior officials at the picturesque Dujiangyan city, would also review the progress made in bilateral ties since the Wuhan Summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in April, officials said. Doval and Wang are the designated special representatives for border talks between India and China. The talks were expected to be concluded later Saturday. This is the first round of talks for Wang after he succeeded State Councillor Yang Jiechi earlier this year. Wang has become the state councillor, a rank higher than the foreign minister in the Chinese government's hierarchy. Announcing the talks on November 21, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang presented an upbeat picture of the bilateral ties saying, "We have properly managed the differences through dialogue and consultation. The border areas on the whole maintained stability". Officials maintain that this round of talks may focus more on reviewing the progress on trade and maintenance of peace at borders than movement towards a solution to the border dispute as India is headed for general elections next year. Since the first-ever "informal summit" between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi in Wuhan, the two countries have launched a dialogue between trade officials to enhance India's exports to China to address the over $ 51-billion trade deficit. Since then, progress has been made towards increasing India's export of rice, sugar and pharmaceuticals. This is expected to come under review at the talks, officials said. Negotiations between the special representatives are regarded highly significant by both the countries as they cover all aspects of bilateral ties besides making efforts to resolve the vexed border dispute. The India-China border dispute covers 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control. China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of southern Tibet. The last round, held in New Delhi between Doval and Yang, took place in the backdrop of the 73-day standoff between the two militaries at Doklam over Chinese army's plan to build a road close to India's strategic "Chicken's Neck" corridor connecting the north-eastern states. The standoff ended after the People's Liberation Army halted the plans to build the road. Officials on both sides say a lot of spadework has been done to ensure peace and tranquillity at the border, though the solution to the border dispute is still elusive even after 20 rounds of talks. Senior defence officials of India and China held the 9th India-China Annual Defence and Security Dialogue in Beijing on November 13 after a one-year gap due to the Doklam standoff. During the meeting, both sides agreed to enhance defence exchanges and interactions.

NSA Ajit Doval, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi hold India-China border talks

NSA Ajit Doval meets Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi

US Secretary of State in frosty exchange with Chinese State Councillor in Beijing

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