India and China will resume there annual bilateral exercise this December. The exercise will take place Chengdu, China and will see the participation of around 48 officers and 100 other personnel. The exercise did not take place last year due to the Doklam incident.&nbsp;

China and India have been trying to engage since the Doklam incident last year had put ties under strain. Indian PM Modi and Chinese president have met three times in the past few months.

They first met at the famous informal summit in Wuhan, followed by a meet on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Summit and then in Johannesburg on the sidelines of the BRICS summit.

They will be meeting again on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Argentina next month. The summit will take place from November 20&nbsp;to December 1. This will be the 4th meeting between the two leaders this year.

India and China have also been trying to engage with each other especially in Afghanistan. This week both began the joint training of Afghan diplomats which was agreed during Wuhan informal summit.

Speaking exclusively to WION, China's Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui said, "training of diplomats is just the first step. I am sure in future, discussion will be on how to upgrade and cooperate on other concrete projects. This is just the beginning for China, India to cooperate on Afghan issues. Its implementation of Wuhan spirit."

At the end of this week, Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Zhao Kezhi will visit India. In December, Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi will visit India and launch the first meeting of China-India High Level People-to-People Exchanges Mechanism.

&nbsp;

India and China will resume there annual bilateral exercise this December. The exercise will take place Chengdu, China and will see the participation of around 48 officers and 100 other personnel.

India and China will resume there annual bilateral exercise this December. The exercise will take place Chengdu, China and will see the participation of around 48 officers and 100 other personnel. The exercise did not take place last year due to the Doklam incident. China and India have been trying to engage since the Doklam incident last year had put ties under strain. Indian PM Modi and Chinese president have met three times in the past few months. They first met at the famous informal summit in Wuhan, followed by a meet on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Summit and then in Johannesburg on the sidelines of the BRICS summit. They will be meeting again on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Argentina next month. The summit will take place from November 20 to December 1. This will be the 4th meeting between the two leaders this year. India and China have also been trying to engage with each other especially in Afghanistan. This week both began the joint training of Afghan diplomats which was agreed during Wuhan informal summit. Speaking exclusively to WION, China's Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui said, "training of diplomats is just the first step. I am sure in future, discussion will be on how to upgrade and cooperate on other concrete projects. This is just the beginning for China, India to cooperate on Afghan issues. Its implementation of Wuhan spirit." At the end of this week, Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Zhao Kezhi will visit India. In December, Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi will visit India and launch the first meeting of China-India High Level People-to-People Exchanges Mechanism.

India, China to undertake military exercise in December

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held bilateral talks with&nbspChinese President Xi Jinping soon after his arrival in this port city, where the two leaders are to take stock of the progress in the implementation of decisions they had taken at their first informal summit in Wuhan.

The talks took place on the sidelines of the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit&nbspwhich will explore concrete ways to bolster cooperation in the fight against terrorism, extremism and radicalisation besides deliberating on pressing global issues.

Modi and Xi are expected to explore ways to deepen ties in areas of trade and investment besides reviewing the overall bilateral cooperation, reported news agency PTI.

The meeting is taking place weeks after the two leaders held an informal summit in the central Chinese city of Wuhan during which they exchanged views on solidifying the relationship between the two Asian powers.

Modi and Xi are likely to take stock of progress in the implementation of decisions they had taken at the Wuhan informal summit, official sources said.

Modi is expected to hold nearly half a dozen bilateral meetings with leaders of other SCO countries.&nbsp

It is for the first time the Indian prime minister will be attending the SCO Summit after India along with Pakistan became full-fledged members of the grouping, which has been increasingly seen as a counter to NATO.

The SCO was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.&nbsp

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held bilateral talks with&nbspChinese President Xi Jinping soon after his arrival in this port city, where the two leaders are to take stock of the progress in the implementation of decisions they had taken at their first informal summit in Wuhan. The talks took place on the sidelines of the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit&nbspwhich will explore concrete ways to bolster cooperation in the fight against terrorism, extremism and radicalisation besides deliberating on pressing global issues. Modi and Xi are expected to explore ways to deepen ties in areas of trade and investment besides reviewing the overall bilateral cooperation, reported news agency PTI. The meeting is taking place weeks after the two leaders held an informal summit in the central Chinese city of Wuhan during which they exchanged views on solidifying the relationship between the two Asian powers. Modi and Xi are likely to take stock of progress in the implementation of decisions they had taken at the Wuhan informal summit, official sources said. Modi is expected to hold nearly half a dozen bilateral meetings with leaders of other SCO countries. It is for the first time the Indian prime minister will be attending the SCO Summit after India along with Pakistan became full-fledged members of the grouping, which has been increasingly seen as a counter to NATO. The SCO was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

PM Modi meets Chinese President Xi on the sidelines of SCO summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday on the sidelines of the SCO Summit during which they will take stock of the implementation of decisions taken at the informal summit just over a month ago in Wuhan.

Modi is expected to hold nearly half a dozen bilateral meetings with leaders of other SCO countries. However, there is no official word on whether there will be any interaction between Modi and Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain, who is scheduled to attend the meeting in China.

The bilateral meeting with President Xi would take place on June 9, while meetings with other leaders on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Qingdao were being finalised, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said at a media briefing here.

Officials have said Modi and Xi are expected to take stock of the implementation of decisions taken at their informal summit in Wuhan.

Among other issues, the SCO summit is expected to focus on opportunities for cooperation among the member countries and the situation in the region, Kumar said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is also expected to attend the summit.

Modi had last month met Putin in an informal summit in Sochi.

The SCO was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan became its members last year, and are participating as full members for the first time.

Kumar, while talking to reporters after the briefing, said China appreciated Prime Minister Modi's speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore last week.

This was conveyed by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj during a meeting held on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers Meeting in South Africa this week, he said.

This was also conveyed by China's Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou to Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale in a meeting held here, Kumar said.

In his address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, Modi said Asia and the world will have a better future when India and China work together with trust and confidence while being sensitive to each other's interests.&nbsp

Russian President Vladimir Putin is also expected to attend the summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday on the sidelines of the SCO Summit during which they will take stock of the implementation of decisions taken at the informal summit just over a month ago in Wuhan. Modi is expected to hold nearly half a dozen bilateral meetings with leaders of other SCO countries. However, there is no official word on whether there will be any interaction between Modi and Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain, who is scheduled to attend the meeting in China. The bilateral meeting with President Xi would take place on June 9, while meetings with other leaders on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Qingdao were being finalised, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said at a media briefing here. Officials have said Modi and Xi are expected to take stock of the implementation of decisions taken at their informal summit in Wuhan. Among other issues, the SCO summit is expected to focus on opportunities for cooperation among the member countries and the situation in the region, Kumar said. Russian President Vladimir Putin is also expected to attend the summit. Modi had last month met Putin in an informal summit in Sochi. The SCO was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan became its members last year, and are participating as full members for the first time. Kumar, while talking to reporters after the briefing, said China appreciated Prime Minister Modi's speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore last week. This was conveyed by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj during a meeting held on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers Meeting in South Africa this week, he said. This was also conveyed by China's Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou to Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale in a meeting held here, Kumar said. In his address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, Modi said Asia and the world will have a better future when India and China work together with trust and confidence while being sensitive to each other's interests.

PM Modi to meet Xi on SCO Summit sidelines in China

China today<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-gold-mine-at-arunachal-border-may-become-another-flashpoint-with-india-report-138412"> emphatically declared that mining operations</a> close to the Arunachal Pradesh was "completely" within its sovereignty, and it "totally" belongs to China.

A media report on Sunday said Chinese authorities were&nbsp;engaging in "large scale" mining operations after discovering huge reserves of gold, silver and other minerals on its side of the border with Arunachal Pradesh. China claims Arunachal Pradesh as "southern Tibet".

The report said the precious minerals were&nbsp;valued at around $60 billion.

"China conducts regular geological and scientific research on its own territory. It is completely within China's sovereignty.&nbsp;China always attaches importance to protecting ecological environment. We hope relevant media can refrain from hyping up based on groundless report," China's foreign ministry spokesman said.

"I have also noted the report mentioned by you. The area mentioned by the report totally belongs to China," Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Lu Kang added.

The report said the terrain was inaccessible, however, now China was aggressively&nbsp;mining in the area in Lhunze with thousands of people pouring into the area and the country extensively building road networks to increase mining activity.

"I hope the media can stop hyping up based on groundless report and the area mentioned by the report belongs to China's territory and the geological and scientific activities are conducted on China's territory," China's foreign office asserted while making its stand clear.

On the status of Arunachal Pradesh, the foreign ministry spokesman said: "I can tell you that China's position on the India-China boundary is consistent and clear cut. China never recognised the so-called Arunachal Pradesh."

A media report on Sunday said Chinese authorities was engaging in "large scale" mining operations after discovering huge reserves of gold, silver and other minerals on its side of the border with Arunachal Pradesh. China claims Arunachal Pradesh as "southern Tibet".

China today emphatically declared that mining operations close to the Arunachal Pradesh was "completely" within its sovereignty, and it "totally" belongs to China. A media report on Sunday said Chinese authorities were engaging in "large scale" mining operations after discovering huge reserves of gold, silver and other minerals on its side of the border with Arunachal Pradesh. China claims Arunachal Pradesh as "southern Tibet". The report said the precious minerals were valued at around $60 billion. "China conducts regular geological and scientific research on its own territory. It is completely within China's sovereignty. China always attaches importance to protecting ecological environment. We hope relevant media can refrain from hyping up based on groundless report," China's foreign ministry spokesman said. "I have also noted the report mentioned by you. The area mentioned by the report totally belongs to China," Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Lu Kang added. The report said the terrain was inaccessible, however, now China was aggressively mining in the area in Lhunze with thousands of people pouring into the area and the country extensively building road networks to increase mining activity. "I hope the media can stop hyping up based on groundless report and the area mentioned by the report belongs to China's territory and the geological and scientific activities are conducted on China's territory," China's foreign office asserted while making its stand clear. On the status of Arunachal Pradesh, the foreign ministry spokesman said: "I can tell you that China's position on the India-China boundary is consistent and clear cut. China never recognised the so-called Arunachal Pradesh."

Never recognised 'so-called Arunachal Pradesh', gold mining part of geological & scientific research: China

The White House said today <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-labour-day-india-china-troops-meet-at-the-border-exchange-sweets-134113">that PM Modi and Chinese President Xi </a>Jinping's meeting last week when they met for an "informal summit" was a "good thing".

"I certainly think it's always good when other world leaders are getting along," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said.

Modi and Xi met for<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-wont-force-india-to-accept-belt-and-road-project-says-chinese-vice-foreign-minister-133409"> two days last week in Wuhan </a>as the two leaders agreed to improve ties understand each other's point of view on military and civilian matters, especially along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

"And, certainly, when we can cooperate, that's definitely a good thing. We have a great relationship with both countries and hope to continue to do so," Sanders told reporters at the news briefing.

US's reaction comes even as the Trump administration is engaged in trade talks with China after the US president imposed stiff tariffs against Chinese goods last month. The US trade team arrived in Beijing on Thursday as Trump said his country was seeking trying to negotiate a "level playing field on trade".

A week after Xi and Modi meeting at Wuhan, the two countries decided to setup a military "hotline" similar to the one between DGMos of India and Pakistan. The move was part of Xi and Modi's &nbsp"strategic guidance" to their forces in order to defuse tensions along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

The hotline was already in the works since 2013 and was endorsed by Modi during his visit to China in 2015. Both sides decided to take up joint projects in Afghanistan as India and China tried to find common ground in South Asia.

Modi and Xi met for two days last week in Wuhan as the two leaders agreed to improve ties

The White House said today that PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping's meeting last week when they met for an "informal summit" was a "good thing". "I certainly think it's always good when other world leaders are getting along," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said. Modi and Xi met for two days last week in Wuhan as the two leaders agreed to improve ties understand each other's point of view on military and civilian matters, especially along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). "And, certainly, when we can cooperate, that's definitely a good thing. We have a great relationship with both countries and hope to continue to do so," Sanders told reporters at the news briefing. US's reaction comes even as the Trump administration is engaged in trade talks with China after the US president imposed stiff tariffs against Chinese goods last month. The US trade team arrived in Beijing on Thursday as Trump said his country was seeking trying to negotiate a "level playing field on trade". A week after Xi and Modi meeting at Wuhan, the two countries decided to setup a military "hotline" similar to the one between DGMos of India and Pakistan. The move was part of Xi and Modi's "strategic guidance" to their forces in order to defuse tensions along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). The hotline was already in the works since 2013 and was endorsed by Modi during his visit to China in 2015. Both sides decided to take up joint projects in Afghanistan as India and China tried to find common ground in South Asia.

Modi-Xi meeting a good thing, always good when world leaders get along: White House

A week after PM Modi met <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-xis-chai-pe-charcha-on-wuhan-lake-133368">President Xi at Wuhan, India </a>and Chinese military are reportedly setting up a "hotline" which was regarded as a major Confidence Building Measure(CBM) between the two sides, China's state-run Global Times reported.

"India and China are now looking to set up a hotline between the operations directorates of the two nations' central military headquarters, which was first proposed in The Border Defense Cooperation Agreement (BDCA) and agreed to by Modi during his visit to China in 2015," Global Times said.

Prime Minister Modi during his "informal summit" with President Xi had decided to issue "strategic guidance" to their forces in order to defuse tensions along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

The proposed hotline has been in the works since 2013 but wasn't&nbsp;operationalised due to procedural delays and the ever-changing situation at the China border. &nbsp;However, post-Wuhan summit, both countries seem to be "resetting" border relations.

"The informal summit in Wuhan is a good start to alleviating stress between the two countries, which is the basis for future communication and trust building," Zhao Gancheng, director of the Shanghai Institute for International Studies' Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies, told the Global Times.

India and Pakistan already have a hotline service with Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMO) in touch with each other.

"Military trust and military cooperation should be the direction that both sides make efforts to achieve, though it will take some time," Zhao told the daily.

Meanwhile, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-labour-day-india-china-troops-meet-at-the-border-exchange-sweets-134113">on International Labour Da</a>y, Indian and Chinese troops held a special border personnel meeting at the Chusul-Moldo meeting point in eastern Ladakh. Troops from both sides exchanged sweets at Wacha border post in Arunachal Pradesh which is being seen as major confidence-building move.

According to an official statement, the meeting was organised to "build trust between the two armies deployed at the border."

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2DagYV07VPg" width="560"></iframe>

India and Pakistan already have a hotline service with DGMO in touch with each other.

A week after PM Modi met President Xi at Wuhan, India and Chinese military are reportedly setting up a "hotline" which was regarded as a major Confidence Building Measure(CBM) between the two sides, China's state-run Global Times reported. "India and China are now looking to set up a hotline between the operations directorates of the two nations' central military headquarters, which was first proposed in The Border Defense Cooperation Agreement (BDCA) and agreed to by Modi during his visit to China in 2015," Global Times said. Prime Minister Modi during his "informal summit" with President Xi had decided to issue "strategic guidance" to their forces in order to defuse tensions along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). The proposed hotline has been in the works since 2013 but wasn't operationalised due to procedural delays and the ever-changing situation at the China border. However, post-Wuhan summit, both countries seem to be "resetting" border relations. "The informal summit in Wuhan is a good start to alleviating stress between the two countries, which is the basis for future communication and trust building," Zhao Gancheng, director of the Shanghai Institute for International Studies' Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies, told the Global Times. India and Pakistan already have a hotline service with Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMO) in touch with each other. "Military trust and military cooperation should be the direction that both sides make efforts to achieve, though it will take some time," Zhao told the daily. Meanwhile, on International Labour Day, Indian and Chinese troops held a special border personnel meeting at the Chusul-Moldo meeting point in eastern Ladakh. Troops from both sides exchanged sweets at Wacha border post in Arunachal Pradesh which is being seen as major confidence-building move. According to an official statement, the meeting was organised to "build trust between the two armies deployed at the border."

Post-Wuhan, India, China decide to set up military 'hotline': Report

On International <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-agree-to-issue-strategic-guidance-to-their-militaries-to-build-trust--133407">Labour Day, Indian and Chinese troops</a> held a special border personnel meeting at the Chusul-Moldo meeting point in eastern Ladakh.

Indicating an upward trend in relations between the two sides, post-Doklam, troops and families of both armies took part in celebrations.&nbsp;

According to an official statement, the meeting was organised to "build trust between the two armies deployed at&nbsp;the border."

India and Chinese troops also exchanged sweets at Wacha border post in Arunachal Pradesh.

PM Modi had met President Xi last week in Wuhan last week with both leaders agreeing to engage in "strategic guidance" for both armies at the tense border area where India and China were involved in a 73-day standoff at Doklam.

Border meeting between the Indian Army and the People's Liberation Army(PLA) is usually held on important dates, for example, PLA Day, 26th January and 15th August.

A similar function was held along the LAC on India's Republic Day&nbsp;this year and on Independence Day in August last year.

According to an official statement, the meeting was organised to "build trust between the two armies deployed at the border."

On International Labour Day, Indian and Chinese troops held a special border personnel meeting at the Chusul-Moldo meeting point in eastern Ladakh. Indicating an upward trend in relations between the two sides, post-Doklam, troops and families of both armies took part in celebrations. According to an official statement, the meeting was organised to "build trust between the two armies deployed at the border." India and Chinese troops also exchanged sweets at Wacha border post in Arunachal Pradesh. PM Modi had met President Xi last week in Wuhan last week with both leaders agreeing to engage in "strategic guidance" for both armies at the tense border area where India and China were involved in a 73-day standoff at Doklam. Border meeting between the Indian Army and the People's Liberation Army(PLA) is usually held on important dates, for example, PLA Day, 26th January and 15th August. A similar function was held along the LAC on India's Republic Day this year and on Independence Day in August last year.

On Labour Day, India, China troops meet at the border, exchange sweets

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said he held "extensive and fruitful" talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping during their first round of two-day informal summit at the&nbsp;picturesque Wuhan city.&nbsp;

"I am very pleased to meet with President Xi Jinping in Wuhan. We conducted extensive and fruitful talks and exchanged opinions on strengthening India-China relations and other international issues," Modi said in a post in the popular Chinese social media Weibo, where he has 1,83,112 followers.&nbsp;

"Thank you, President Xi Jinping, for the wonderful gesture of personally accompanying me in the Hubei Provincial Museum. The Museum is home to great facets of Chinese history and culture," Modi was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Modi and Xi are due to conclude their unprecedented informal summit today, seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year.

Modi and Xi are due to conclude their unprecedented informal summit today, seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said he held "extensive and fruitful" talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping during their first round of two-day informal summit at the picturesque Wuhan city. "I am very pleased to meet with President Xi Jinping in Wuhan. We conducted extensive and fruitful talks and exchanged opinions on strengthening India-China relations and other international issues," Modi said in a post in the popular Chinese social media Weibo, where he has 1,83,112 followers. "Thank you, President Xi Jinping, for the wonderful gesture of personally accompanying me in the Hubei Provincial Museum. The Museum is home to great facets of Chinese history and culture," Modi was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. Modi and Xi are due to conclude their unprecedented informal summit today, seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year.

Held 'extensive, fruitful' talks with Xi, says Modi in Chinese social media Weibo

The two-day-long informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping spills into its second and final day. After holding bilateral discussions on the first day, PM Modi is expected to return to India after spending time exploring the picturesque city of Wuhan along with the Chinese president today.&nbsp;

PM Modi will take a walk around a guesthouse with Xi on Saturday, then an hour-long boat trip on a lake followed by lunch, before the meeting ends, according to the Indian Foreign Ministry.&nbsp;The leaders&nbsp;are expected to brief reporters at the end of the summit.

According to the sources, the idea of the summit is to facilitate strategic communication channel at the highest level between India and China.

Earlier on Friday, Chinese President Xi Jinping drew a parallel between the Indus and Chinese civilizations, both of which sprawled around rivers.

PM Modi and Xi visited the exhibition of Marquis Yi of Zeng Cultural Relics and Treasure at Hubei Provincial Museum in Wuhan.

"The two leaders had a one-on-one meeting during which they exchanged views on solidifying our bilateral relationship," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

During the talks, Modi offered to host the next informal summit with Xi in India next year. "I'll be happy if, in 2019, we can have such informal summit in India," Modi told Xi.

The Chinese president said he believes in future and they can meet in a format like this from time to time.

"I believe in the future, we will meet in a format like this, from time to time. I look forward to in-depth communication with your Excellency, and ensure we can build common understanding and help to take the China-India relationship to the next level," Xi said.

Billed by both sides as an informal meeting rather than a summit, President Xi and PM Modi held talks on Friday that lasted far longer than expected.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A private lunch will be hosted by the Chinese President later in the day

The two-day-long informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping spills into its second and final day. After holding bilateral discussions on the first day, PM Modi is expected to return to India after spending time exploring the picturesque city of Wuhan along with the Chinese president today. PM Modi will take a walk around a guesthouse with Xi on Saturday, then an hour-long boat trip on a lake followed by lunch, before the meeting ends, according to the Indian Foreign Ministry. The leaders are expected to brief reporters at the end of the summit. According to the sources, the idea of the summit is to facilitate strategic communication channel at the highest level between India and China. Earlier on Friday, Chinese President Xi Jinping drew a parallel between the Indus and Chinese civilizations, both of which sprawled around rivers. PM Modi and Xi visited the exhibition of Marquis Yi of Zeng Cultural Relics and Treasure at Hubei Provincial Museum in Wuhan. "The two leaders had a one-on-one meeting during which they exchanged views on solidifying our bilateral relationship," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said. During the talks, Modi offered to host the next informal summit with Xi in India next year. "I'll be happy if, in 2019, we can have such informal summit in India," Modi told Xi. The Chinese president said he believes in future and they can meet in a format like this from time to time. "I believe in the future, we will meet in a format like this, from time to time. I look forward to in-depth communication with your Excellency, and ensure we can build common understanding and help to take the China-India relationship to the next level," Xi said. Billed by both sides as an informal meeting rather than a summit, President Xi and PM Modi held talks on Friday that lasted far longer than expected. (With inputs from agencies)

Wuhan summit: On day 2, PM Modi, Xi to bond over boat ride, lavish lunch

Prime Minister Narendra Modi <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-wuhan-for-two-day-informal-summit-with-xi-jinping-133066">arrived at picturesque Wuhan city</a> in central China, at 12:30am on Friday, ahead of his much anticipated informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The meeting comes in the backdrop of the efforts made by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-summit-all-about-the-indo-sino-ties-from-past-to-present-133147">both India and China</a> to move past the tensions, which rose out of last year's 73-day Doklam stand-off.

"In the informal summit the objective is that both of the leaders talk with each other to the maximum. There is <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-no-set-agenda-for-modi-xi-talks-at-wuhan-as-many-bilateral-issues-to-be-discussed-133065">no fixed agenda</a> to this. There will be no agreements or MoUs signed," India's ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale, said.

We want to give both the leaders and environment where both of them may talk to each other specifically, he added.

Prime Minister Modi will commence his meetings with Chinese President Xi at 3:30pm on Friday at the Hubei Provincial Museum. After touring the museum for about an hour, the two leaders, accompanied by six top officials from each side, will hold talks at the sprawling East Lake Guest House, where Xi is staying.

This will be followed by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/modi-xi-all-set-for-heart-to-heart-summit-133136">leaders' walk</a>. Dinner will be hosted by Chinese President Xi at the guest house in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-you-need-to-know-about-wuhan-the-venue-for-informal-modi-xi-meet-132911">central Wuhan</a>.

"Indians should see this as a very sincere effort on the path of improving their relationship. It is in our national interest to succeed. There is a very strong sense that the India-China factor can bring a lot of stability. Asia would welcome the news of the informal summit as well as India," India's former foreign secretary S Jaishankar said.

On Saturday, the two leaders will have opportunity to spend time without their aides as with Xi taking Modi for a lakeside walk and a boat ride on the picturesque East Lake. This will be followed by a private lunch hosted by the Chinese President.

"One of the main objectives of the informal summit is discussion between the two leaders. Otherwise the objective is to give opportunity to the two leaders to speak to each other. They might have a walk in the park, they might go for boating in East Lake in Wuhan and thereby discussing some of the most important issues from the world," said Bambawale.

"When two leaders of big countries meet, then they don’t talk about specific micro issues," he said, adding, "India, China will be setting a new trend with the informal meeting."

No joint statement or communique will be issued after the informal talks.

According to the sources, the informal talks will be broad-based and over arching and no specific issues will be discussed. The idea is to open strategic communication channel at the highest level.

On Saturday, the two leaders will have opportunity to spend time without their aides as with Xi taking Modi for a lakeside walk and a boat ride on the picturesque East Lake.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at picturesque Wuhan city in central China, at 12:30am on Friday, ahead of his much anticipated informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The meeting comes in the backdrop of the efforts made by both India and China to move past the tensions, which rose out of last year's 73-day Doklam stand-off. "In the informal summit the objective is that both of the leaders talk with each other to the maximum. There is no fixed agenda to this. There will be no agreements or MoUs signed," India's ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale, said. We want to give both the leaders and environment where both of them may talk to each other specifically, he added. Prime Minister Modi will commence his meetings with Chinese President Xi at 3:30pm on Friday at the Hubei Provincial Museum. After touring the museum for about an hour, the two leaders, accompanied by six top officials from each side, will hold talks at the sprawling East Lake Guest House, where Xi is staying. This will be followed by the leaders' walk. Dinner will be hosted by Chinese President Xi at the guest house in central Wuhan. "Indians should see this as a very sincere effort on the path of improving their relationship. It is in our national interest to succeed. There is a very strong sense that the India-China factor can bring a lot of stability. Asia would welcome the news of the informal summit as well as India," India's former foreign secretary S Jaishankar said. On Saturday, the two leaders will have opportunity to spend time without their aides as with Xi taking Modi for a lakeside walk and a boat ride on the picturesque East Lake. This will be followed by a private lunch hosted by the Chinese President. "One of the main objectives of the informal summit is discussion between the two leaders. Otherwise the objective is to give opportunity to the two leaders to speak to each other. They might have a walk in the park, they might go for boating in East Lake in Wuhan and thereby discussing some of the most important issues from the world," said Bambawale. "When two leaders of big countries meet, then they don’t talk about specific micro issues," he said, adding, "India, China will be setting a new trend with the informal meeting." No joint statement or communique will be issued after the informal talks. According to the sources, the informal talks will be broad-based and over arching and no specific issues will be discussed. The idea is to open strategic communication channel at the highest level.

Private lunch, candid dialogue but no set agenda for Modi-Xi talks at Wuhan

The ongoing visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Wuhan City adds another milestone to the long-term bilateral relation, shared between India and China.

The meeting comes in the backdrop of the efforts made by both India and China to move past the tensions, which rose out of last year's Doklam standoff.

Starting from 1950, India became the first non-socialist bloc country to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China, as reported in a press release by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Further, then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's visit in 1988 helped to thaw the Indo-China tensions following the 1962 conflict between the two countries.

In 1993, an Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility was signed between India and China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) during the visit of then Prime Minister Narasimha Rao, which reflected the growing stability and substance in the bilateral ties.

Further, in 2003, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee visited China, during which the two sides had signed a Declaration on Principles for Relations and Comprehensive Cooperation and also mutually decided to appoint Special Representatives (SRs) to "to explore the framework of a boundary settlement from the political perspective".

In April 2005, former Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao visited India. The two sides established Strategic and Cooperative Partnership for Peace and Prosperity, while the signing of an agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles.

During former Chinese President Hu Jintao's visit to India in November 2006, the two sides issued a Joint Declaration containing a ten-pronged strategy to intensify cooperation.

Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh visited China in January 2008. A joint document, titled "A Shared Vision for the 21st Century" was issued during the visit, the statement read.

During former Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to India in December 2010, the two sides jointly set a bilateral trade target of USD 100 billion for 2015.

According to the statement, over 60 percent of the agreements between the two Asian giants have been signed during the last decade.

Till date, both the sides have established 36 dialogue mechanisms covering diverse sectors.

In March 2012, then Chinese President Hu Jintao visited India for the BRICS Summit.

In terms of defence exchanges, the fifth round of the Annual Defence Dialogue concluded in Beijing on 14 January 2013.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-xi-informal-summit-from-walk-to-boat-ride-what-all-to-expect-133087">PM Modi-Xi informal summit: From </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-xi-informal-summit-from-walk-to-boat-ride-what-all-to-expect-133087">walk</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-xi-informal-summit-from-walk-to-boat-ride-what-all-to-expect-133087"> to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-xi-informal-summit-from-walk-to-boat-ride-what-all-to-expect-133087">boat</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-xi-informal-summit-from-walk-to-boat-ride-what-all-to-expect-133087"> ride, what all to expect</a>

Further, in 2014, the present Chinese President Xi Jinping visited India. A total of 16 agreements were signed in various sectors- including commerce and trade, railways, space -cooperation, pharmaceuticals, audio-visual coproduction, culture, the establishment of industrial parks, and sister-city arrangements.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the two countries to open an additional route for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in India through Nathu La pass in China.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had embarked on his maiden two-day visit to China in 2015.

Prime Minister Modi and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang held bilateral talks. The two leaders had then welcomed the move to initiate a State/Provincial Leaders' Forum to advance the bilateral relationship between the two nations.

This was part of record 24 bilateral agreements signed between the two neighbouring countries, amounting to USD 10 billion.

The duo kick-started this forum by attending its first meeting held in Beijing.

Further, Prime Minister Modi also announced the extension of the e-visa facility to Chinese nationals wishing to travel to India.

Later in 2016, former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee visited China's Guangdong and Beijing to meet the Chinese leaders and attended a roundtable between Vice Chancellors and Heads of institutions of higher learning of the two countries.

Ten MoUs, providing for enhanced faculty and student exchanges, were signed.

The visit was to reciprocate the historic visit of President Xi Jinping to India in September 2014.

He also delivered a keynote at China's Peking University.

The latest in the line of visits of the leaders of both countries was Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who visited China in 2017 to participate in the G20 summit in Hangzhou and September 2017 to participate in the BRICS Summit in Xiamen.

The two leaders also met along the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Heads of States Summit in Tashkent in June 2016 and in Astana in June 2017.

Earlier in 2016, President Xi Jinping visited India to participate in the BRICS summit at Goa.

Starting from 1950, India became the first non-socialist bloc country to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China

The ongoing visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Wuhan City adds another milestone to the long-term bilateral relation, shared between India and China. The meeting comes in the backdrop of the efforts made by both India and China to move past the tensions, which rose out of last year's Doklam standoff. Starting from 1950, India became the first non-socialist bloc country to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China, as reported in a press release by the Ministry of External Affairs. Further, then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's visit in 1988 helped to thaw the Indo-China tensions following the 1962 conflict between the two countries. In 1993, an Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility was signed between India and China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) during the visit of then Prime Minister Narasimha Rao, which reflected the growing stability and substance in the bilateral ties. Further, in 2003, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee visited China, during which the two sides had signed a Declaration on Principles for Relations and Comprehensive Cooperation and also mutually decided to appoint Special Representatives (SRs) to "to explore the framework of a boundary settlement from the political perspective". In April 2005, former Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao visited India. The two sides established Strategic and Cooperative Partnership for Peace and Prosperity, while the signing of an agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles. During former Chinese President Hu Jintao's visit to India in November 2006, the two sides issued a Joint Declaration containing a ten-pronged strategy to intensify cooperation. Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh visited China in January 2008. A joint document, titled "A Shared Vision for the 21st Century" was issued during the visit, the statement read. During former Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to India in December 2010, the two sides jointly set a bilateral trade target of USD 100 billion for 2015. According to the statement, over 60 percent of the agreements between the two Asian giants have been signed during the last decade. Till date, both the sides have established 36 dialogue mechanisms covering diverse sectors. In March 2012, then Chinese President Hu Jintao visited India for the BRICS Summit. In terms of defence exchanges, the fifth round of the Annual Defence Dialogue concluded in Beijing on 14 January 2013. Also read: PM Modi-Xi informal summit: From walk to boat ride, what all to expect Further, in 2014, the present Chinese President Xi Jinping visited India. A total of 16 agreements were signed in various sectors- including commerce and trade, railways, space -cooperation, pharmaceuticals, audio-visual coproduction, culture, the establishment of industrial parks, and sister-city arrangements. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the two countries to open an additional route for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in India through Nathu La pass in China. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had embarked on his maiden two-day visit to China in 2015. Prime Minister Modi and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang held bilateral talks. The two leaders had then welcomed the move to initiate a State/Provincial Leaders' Forum to advance the bilateral relationship between the two nations. This was part of record 24 bilateral agreements signed between the two neighbouring countries, amounting to USD 10 billion. The duo kick-started this forum by attending its first meeting held in Beijing. Further, Prime Minister Modi also announced the extension of the e-visa facility to Chinese nationals wishing to travel to India. Later in 2016, former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee visited China's Guangdong and Beijing to meet the Chinese leaders and attended a roundtable between Vice Chancellors and Heads of institutions of higher learning of the two countries. Ten MoUs, providing for enhanced faculty and student exchanges, were signed. The visit was to reciprocate the historic visit of President Xi Jinping to India in September 2014. He also delivered a keynote at China's Peking University. The latest in the line of visits of the leaders of both countries was Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who visited China in 2017 to participate in the G20 summit in Hangzhou and September 2017 to participate in the BRICS Summit in Xiamen. The two leaders also met along the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Heads of States Summit in Tashkent in June 2016 and in Astana in June 2017. Earlier in 2016, President Xi Jinping visited India to participate in the BRICS summit at Goa.

PM Modi-Xi summit: All about Indo-Sino ties, from past to present

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-be-happy-if-we-can-have-informal-summit-in-india-next-year-pm-modi-tell-president-xi-during-delegation-level-talks-133246">Chinese President Xi Jinping today held </a>multiple meetings here as part of an unprecedented two-day informal summit to "solidify" the India-China relationship and exchanged views on how the two countries can work together for the benefit of their people and the world.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-speed-with-which-you-constructed-it-and-the-scale-inspired-me-says-modi-to-president-xi-133224">Also Watch:&nbspPM Modi on museum tour with Xi at Wuhan&nbsp</a>

The summit in Wuhan - the favourite holiday <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-chinese-media-views-informal-xi-modi-meet-133196">spot of revolutionary Chinese leader</a> Mao Zedong - is being seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year.

Prime Minister Modi who arrived in the central Chinese city early today for the summit began talks soon after President Xi hosted a grand welcoming ceremony for him at the Hubei Provincial Museum here.

"The two leaders had a one-on-one meeting during which they exchanged views on solidifying our bilateral relationship," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

Modi and Xi shook hands, posed for photographs and witnessed a cultural programme at the museum before heading for one-on-one talks. Later, they held delegation-level talks accompanied by six top officials from each side. Xi also hosted a banquet for Modi at the state guest house by the famous East Lake.

During the talks, Modi offered to host the next informal summit with Xi in India next year. "I'll be happy, if in 2019, we can have such informal summit in India," Modi told Xi.

The Chinese president said he believes in future and they can meet in a format like this from time to time.

"I believe in the future, we will meet in format like this, from time to time. I look forward to in-depth communication with your Excellency, and ensure we can build common understanding and help to take the China-India relationship to the next level," Xi said.

Modi hailed the centuries old Sino-India ties and said the two sides have a "big opportunity" to work together for the benefit of their people and the world.

He recalled that during the 2000 years of history, India and China together provided momentum and strength to the world economy and dominated it for around 1600 years. "The two countries together constituted for about 50 per cent of the world economy and another 50 per cent was shared by rest of the world for 1600 years," the prime minister said.

Modi also said the people of India felt proud that President Xi has twice received him out of the capital.

"I'm perhaps the first Prime Minister of India, for whom, you have come out of the capital (Beijing) twice to receive me," Modi said, referring to his visit to Xi'an - the hometown of President Xi - in 2015.

Xi told Modi that their meeting opens a new chapter for bilateral ties.

He emphasised the two sides should look at the big picture of China-India relationship from a strategic angle and ensure their relationship continues to move forward in a positive direction.&nbsp

"The friendship between the two countries should continue to grow like the Yangtze and Ganges flowing forward forever," China's state-run CCTV quoted Xi as saying.

"We see a fast pace and bright future for China-India cooperation," Xi told Modi, who is in China on his fourth visit after he came to power in 2014.&nbsp

"China and India need to maintain a strong focus on national development, deepening mutually beneficial cooperation, work together for our respective national revitalisation to build the stability, development, prosperity and make positive contributions for global peace and development," Xi said, adding that in the past five years China-India relations have maintained a good momentum.

He said the two countries have established closer partnership and their exchanges and cooperation have made positive progress.&nbsp

"India and China have a combined population of 2.6 billion which provides enormous potential for development. Our two countries' influence in the world and region is steadily on the rise, looking ahead we see a fast pace and bright future for China-India cooperation," Xi told Modi.

"As we meet, the international security is at a crucial period of adjustment. China and India are both important engines for global growth and we are central pillars for promoting a multi-polar and globalised world. A good China-India relationship is an important and positive factor for maintaining peace and stability in the world," he added.

Xi's comments assume significance as it came at a time when the US and other major economies have taken a number of protectionist measures.

The Trump administration has recently announced hefty import tariffs on aluminium and steel besides about $50 billion worth of Chinese imports across 1,300 categories of products to counter China's trade practices.

India maintains that protectionism in all its forms should be rejected and favours an economic globalisation which is more open, inclusive and equitable.

Modi and Xi also visited an exhibition of Marquis Yi of Zeng Cultural Relics & Treasure at the museum.

The two leaders will resume their one-on-one interaction tomorrow with walks by the lakeside, boat ride and wind up their talks over lunch.

The two leaders began their informal meetings way back in 2014 when Xi was hosted by Modi at the Sabarmati Ashram of Mahatma Gandhi in Gujarat. They have met and interacted with each other in about a dozen international meetings since then.

But this will be their "heart-to-heart" informal summit. There will be no agreement signed or a joint statement issued.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xaw9Vr0eoiw" width="560"></iframe>

During the talks, Modi offered to host the next informal summit with Xi in India next year

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping today held multiple meetings here as part of an unprecedented two-day informal summit to "solidify" the India-China relationship and exchanged views on how the two countries can work together for the benefit of their people and the world. Also Watch:&nbspPM Modi on museum tour with Xi at Wuhan The summit in Wuhan - the favourite holiday spot of revolutionary Chinese leader Mao Zedong - is being seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year. Prime Minister Modi who arrived in the central Chinese city early today for the summit began talks soon after President Xi hosted a grand welcoming ceremony for him at the Hubei Provincial Museum here. "The two leaders had a one-on-one meeting during which they exchanged views on solidifying our bilateral relationship," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said. Modi and Xi shook hands, posed for photographs and witnessed a cultural programme at the museum before heading for one-on-one talks. Later, they held delegation-level talks accompanied by six top officials from each side. Xi also hosted a banquet for Modi at the state guest house by the famous East Lake. During the talks, Modi offered to host the next informal summit with Xi in India next year. "I'll be happy, if in 2019, we can have such informal summit in India," Modi told Xi. The Chinese president said he believes in future and they can meet in a format like this from time to time. "I believe in the future, we will meet in format like this, from time to time. I look forward to in-depth communication with your Excellency, and ensure we can build common understanding and help to take the China-India relationship to the next level," Xi said. Modi hailed the centuries old Sino-India ties and said the two sides have a "big opportunity" to work together for the benefit of their people and the world. He recalled that during the 2000 years of history, India and China together provided momentum and strength to the world economy and dominated it for around 1600 years. "The two countries together constituted for about 50 per cent of the world economy and another 50 per cent was shared by rest of the world for 1600 years," the prime minister said. Modi also said the people of India felt proud that President Xi has twice received him out of the capital. "I'm perhaps the first Prime Minister of India, for whom, you have come out of the capital (Beijing) twice to receive me," Modi said, referring to his visit to Xi'an - the hometown of President Xi - in 2015. Xi told Modi that their meeting opens a new chapter for bilateral ties. He emphasised the two sides should look at the big picture of China-India relationship from a strategic angle and ensure their relationship continues to move forward in a positive direction. "The friendship between the two countries should continue to grow like the Yangtze and Ganges flowing forward forever," China's state-run CCTV quoted Xi as saying. "We see a fast pace and bright future for China-India cooperation," Xi told Modi, who is in China on his fourth visit after he came to power in 2014. "China and India need to maintain a strong focus on national development, deepening mutually beneficial cooperation, work together for our respective national revitalisation to build the stability, development, prosperity and make positive contributions for global peace and development," Xi said, adding that in the past five years China-India relations have maintained a good momentum. He said the two countries have established closer partnership and their exchanges and cooperation have made positive progress. "India and China have a combined population of 2.6 billion which provides enormous potential for development. Our two countries' influence in the world and region is steadily on the rise, looking ahead we see a fast pace and bright future for China-India cooperation," Xi told Modi. "As we meet, the international security is at a crucial period of adjustment. China and India are both important engines for global growth and we are central pillars for promoting a multi-polar and globalised world. A good China-India relationship is an important and positive factor for maintaining peace and stability in the world," he added. Xi's comments assume significance as it came at a time when the US and other major economies have taken a number of protectionist measures. The Trump administration has recently announced hefty import tariffs on aluminium and steel besides about $50 billion worth of Chinese imports across 1,300 categories of products to counter China's trade practices. India maintains that protectionism in all its forms should be rejected and favours an economic globalisation which is more open, inclusive and equitable. Modi and Xi also visited an exhibition of Marquis Yi of Zeng Cultural Relics & Treasure at the museum. The two leaders will resume their one-on-one interaction tomorrow with walks by the lakeside, boat ride and wind up their talks over lunch. The two leaders began their informal meetings way back in 2014 when Xi was hosted by Modi at the Sabarmati Ashram of Mahatma Gandhi in Gujarat. They have met and interacted with each other in about a dozen international meetings since then. But this will be their "heart-to-heart" informal summit. There will be no agreement signed or a joint statement issued.

I believe in the future, we will meet in format like this: President Xi to Modi

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi held delegation-level talks at Wuhan on Friday as the two leaders engaged each other for the second time in less than a year after the BRICS summit.&nbsp;

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WATCH: PM Modi and President Xi Jinping hold delegation level talks in Wuhan <a href="https://t.co/i28g1LLExD">https://t.co/i28g1LLExD</a>
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"I hope such informal summits becomes a tradition between both the countries. I'll be happy, if in 2019, we can have such informal summit in India," PM Modi told President Xi as the two began their talks in Hubei.

"India and China have the responsibility to work for 40 per cent of the world population,"&nbsp;Modi told President Xi, adding,"this means trying to successfully get the world rid of many problems. To work together towards this is a big opportunity for us."

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Expanding on his personal equation with President Xi, PM Modi said: "The people of India feel really proud that I'm maybe the first prime minister of India, for whom, you have come out of the capital twice to receive me,"&nbsp;Modi told Xi during the talks.

Acknowledging PM Modi's gesture, President Xi said: "As we meet, the international security is at a crucial period of adjustment. China and India are both important engines for global growth and we are central pillars for promoting a multi-polar and globalised world."

"A good China-India relationship is an important and positive factor for maintaining peace, stability in the world," the Chinese President added.

"I believe in the future. We will meet from time to time. I look forward to having in-depth communication with you, he said, adding, I am sure, we can reach new and important common understandings and help to take the China-India relationship to the next level."

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h8_-6PbzIi8" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Modi and Xi began their delegation talks on Friday

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi held delegation-level talks at Wuhan on Friday as the two leaders engaged each other for the second time in less than a year after the BRICS summit. WATCH: PM Modi and President Xi Jinping hold delegation level talks in Wuhan https://t.co/i28g1LLExD — ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2018 × "I hope such informal summits becomes a tradition between both the countries. I'll be happy, if in 2019, we can have such informal summit in India," PM Modi told President Xi as the two began their talks in Hubei. "India and China have the responsibility to work for 40 per cent of the world population," Modi told President Xi, adding,"this means trying to successfully get the world rid of many problems. To work together towards this is a big opportunity for us." Prime Minister Narendra Modi & Chinese President Xi Jinping hold delegation level talks in Hubei. #China pic.twitter.com/9sUE6G9Ajw — ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2018 × Expanding on his personal equation with President Xi, PM Modi said: "The people of India feel really proud that I'm maybe the first prime minister of India, for whom, you have come out of the capital twice to receive me," Modi told Xi during the talks. Acknowledging PM Modi's gesture, President Xi said: "As we meet, the international security is at a crucial period of adjustment. China and India are both important engines for global growth and we are central pillars for promoting a multi-polar and globalised world." "A good China-India relationship is an important and positive factor for maintaining peace, stability in the world," the Chinese President added. "I believe in the future. We will meet from time to time. I look forward to having in-depth communication with you, he said, adding, I am sure, we can reach new and important common understandings and help to take the China-India relationship to the next level."

'Will be happy if we can have informal summit in India,' Modi to President Xi during delegation-level talks

As Indian Prime Minister gets ready <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-wuhan-modi-xi-to-have-heart-to-heart-discussions-chinese-vp-xuanyou-132965">to meet Chinese President Xi at Wuhan</a>, the city is all set to host the two world leaders.

The meeting dubbed as&nbsp;"informal" is being seen as a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-you-need-to-know-about-wuhan-the-venue-for-informal-modi-xi-meet-132911">significant turn in India-China relations </a>after the 73-day standoff&nbsp;over Doklam last year.

"It is quite possible that they might talk about their views of how each of their countries is going to develop in the coming 15 or 20 years," Gautam Bambawale, Indian ambassador to China, said.

The last time PM Modi had met President Xi was in China's eastern city of Xiamen for the BRICS summit. This time the two leaders will&nbsp;engage in "candid dialogue" over pressing issues, however, no official statement or MoU will be signed by either country over the next two days during the summit.

The Indian ambassador conceded that there would be "no set agenda for their talks", although the two leaders might take a boat ride or walk in the park at Wuhan.&nbsp;

"They might talk about the current world situation and in what directions the world is progressing. They might talk about how India views China and how China views India," the Indian ambassador said.

The ambassador added that the Modi and Xi will meet in an informal, friendly setting as they discuss various issues. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"When two leaders of big countries meet, then they don’t talk about specific micro issues,"&nbsp;Bambawale said, adding,"India, China will be&nbsp;setting a new trend with the informal meeting."

The meeting dubbed as an "informal" is being seen as a significant turn in India-China relations

As Indian Prime Minister gets ready to meet Chinese President Xi at Wuhan, the city is all set to host the two world leaders. The meeting dubbed as "informal" is being seen as a significant turn in India-China relations after the 73-day standoff over Doklam last year. "It is quite possible that they might talk about their views of how each of their countries is going to develop in the coming 15 or 20 years," Gautam Bambawale, Indian ambassador to China, said. The last time PM Modi had met President Xi was in China's eastern city of Xiamen for the BRICS summit. This time the two leaders will engage in "candid dialogue" over pressing issues, however, no official statement or MoU will be signed by either country over the next two days during the summit. The Indian ambassador conceded that there would be "no set agenda for their talks", although the two leaders might take a boat ride or walk in the park at Wuhan. "They might talk about the current world situation and in what directions the world is progressing. They might talk about how India views China and how China views India," the Indian ambassador said. The ambassador added that the Modi and Xi will meet in an informal, friendly setting as they discuss various issues. "When two leaders of big countries meet, then they don’t talk about specific micro issues," Bambawale said, adding,"India, China will be setting a new trend with the informal meeting."

India, China setting new trend with informal meeting: Gautam Bambawale, Indian ambassador to China

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is flying to China today for an 'informal meeting' with President Xi Jinping, which has piqued the interest of media as well as international affairs experts across the globe.

PM Modi and President Xi will be meeting in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province and a commercial centre divided by the Yangtze and Han rivers. As per Encyclopaedia Britannica, the government of newly-formed People's Republic of China merged three cities namely Hankou, Hanyang and Wuchang into one single entity of Wuhan.

Wuhan is a strategically located city and its geographical centrality - it is almost equidistant from capital Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai and Chongqing - gives it commercial significance.

The continuous recording of settlement in Wuhan and neighbouring areas dates back to thousands of years. The three cities - which were merged into one to carve out Wuhan - had served as capital cities of many dynasties in imperial Chinese, including the Ming dynasty.

The region has also served as the base for major revolutions in 20th century China, like the Chinese revolution in 1911 and workers' strike in 1923, according to Encyclopaedia Britannica. Mao Zedong also used to run a Peasant Movement Institute in Wuchang.

Hanyag was the site of China's first modern-day steel plant, and Wuhan later became second most important metallurgical centre of China. The iron and steel base has attracted other industries Wuhan is the largest centre of heavy machine tools manufacturing in China.

Wuhan is at the centre of a wide network of river, rail and road transportation from almost every direction which makes it a key collecting and distribution point for different products.

Wuhan is a strategically located city and its geographical centrality gives it commercial significance.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is flying to China today for an 'informal meeting' with President Xi Jinping, which has piqued the interest of media as well as international affairs experts across the globe. PM Modi and President Xi will be meeting in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province and a commercial centre divided by the Yangtze and Han rivers. As per Encyclopaedia Britannica, the government of newly-formed People's Republic of China merged three cities namely Hankou, Hanyang and Wuchang into one single entity of Wuhan. Wuhan is a strategically located city and its geographical centrality - it is almost equidistant from capital Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai and Chongqing - gives it commercial significance. The continuous recording of settlement in Wuhan and neighbouring areas dates back to thousands of years. The three cities - which were merged into one to carve out Wuhan - had served as capital cities of many dynasties in imperial Chinese, including the Ming dynasty. The region has also served as the base for major revolutions in 20th century China, like the Chinese revolution in 1911 and workers' strike in 1923, according to Encyclopaedia Britannica. Mao Zedong also used to run a Peasant Movement Institute in Wuchang. Hanyag was the site of China's first modern-day steel plant, and Wuhan later became second most important metallurgical centre of China. The iron and steel base has attracted other industries Wuhan is the largest centre of heavy machine tools manufacturing in China. Wuhan is at the centre of a wide network of river, rail and road transportation from almost every direction which makes it a key collecting and distribution point for different products.

All you need to know about Wuhan, the venue for 'informal' Modi-Xi meet

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday arrived at Wuhan city in China ahead of his scheduled informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

President Jinping and Prime Minister Modi are expected to hold bilateral talks on Friday as part of the two-day informal summit between India and China.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Wuhan, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>. The PM was received by Kong Xuanyou, Assistant Minister of the Ministry of foreign affairs of China, Luo Zhaohui (Ambassador), Tong Daochi (Vice-Governor of Hubei) and many others. <a href="https://t.co/Kuq2k2j8gy">pic.twitter.com/Kuq2k2j8gy</a>
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Security has been beefed up in China's Wuhan city ahead of the summit between two leaders.

Teams of security personnel have been deployed at various locations where the convoy of the Asian leaders is expected to pass by.

The airport of the Wuhan city and other places are expected to be on high-alert as the two leaders are scheduled to hold talks over two days, probably in open areas.

It is an unprecedented summit to be held between the two global leaders where no memorandum of understanding or statement is expected to be issued after the summit.

Earlier in the day, Xi arrived at the Wuhan City ahead of the informal summit.&nbsp;

They are expected to visit certain places in the Wuhan City, including the East Lake or Wuhan botanical garden, which is said to be the famous sight-seeing places of the Chinese commercial hub.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Wuhan, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>. The PM was received by Kong Xuanyou, Assistant Minister of the Ministry of foreign affairs of China, Luo Zhaohui (Ambassador), Tong Daochi (Vice-Governor of Hubei) and many others. <a href="https://t.co/WWxWqYuO58">pic.twitter.com/WWxWqYuO58</a>
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&nbsp;

Teams of security personnel have been deployed at various locations where the convoy of the Asian leaders is expected to pass by.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday arrived at Wuhan city in China ahead of his scheduled informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. President Jinping and Prime Minister Modi are expected to hold bilateral talks on Friday as part of the two-day informal summit between India and China. #WATCH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Wuhan, #China. The PM was received by Kong Xuanyou, Assistant Minister of the Ministry of foreign affairs of China, Luo Zhaohui (Ambassador), Tong Daochi (Vice-Governor of Hubei) and many others. pic.twitter.com/Kuq2k2j8gy — ANI (@ANI) April 26, 2018 × Security has been beefed up in China's Wuhan city ahead of the summit between two leaders. Teams of security personnel have been deployed at various locations where the convoy of the Asian leaders is expected to pass by. The airport of the Wuhan city and other places are expected to be on high-alert as the two leaders are scheduled to hold talks over two days, probably in open areas. It is an unprecedented summit to be held between the two global leaders where no memorandum of understanding or statement is expected to be issued after the summit. Earlier in the day, Xi arrived at the Wuhan City ahead of the informal summit. They are expected to visit certain places in the Wuhan City, including the East Lake or Wuhan botanical garden, which is said to be the famous sight-seeing places of the Chinese commercial hub. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Wuhan, #China. The PM was received by Kong Xuanyou, Assistant Minister of the Ministry of foreign affairs of China, Luo Zhaohui (Ambassador), Tong Daochi (Vice-Governor of Hubei) and many others. pic.twitter.com/WWxWqYuO58 — ANI (@ANI) April 26, 2018 ×

Watch: PM Modi arrives in Wuhan to meet President Xi

Ahead of PM Modi and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-wuhan-modi-xi-to-have-heart-to-heart-discussions-chinese-vp-xuanyou-132965">President Xi's meeting at Wuhan</a>, Pakistan said its friendship with China "time-tested" based on mutual trust and convergence of interests on bilateral, regional and international issues.&nbsp;

Pakistan's foreign office said relations with China are not aimed against any country. Pakistan and China continue to engage regularly on all matters of mutual interest, it said.

PM Modi is set to engage President Xi at Wuhan over two days at Wuhan with both leaders set to discuss matters in an informal environment which is being keenly watched by South Asia experts, including by leaders in Indian and Pakistan.

"We fully endorse foreign minister Wang Yi's recent statement that China-Pakistan all-weather strategic partnership is not only valuable treasure of the two countries, but also stands as an example for building new type international relations," the foreign office said, adding that "bilateral relations remain a priority" in the foreign policy of both countries.&nbsp;

Talking about the impending visit, India's ambassador to China, said the two leaders might talk about the current world situation mainly aimed at understanding each other better.

"We resolutely support each other’s core and major interests, strengthen collaboration on international and regional affairs to build China-Pakistan community of common destiny," Pakistan said in a statement.

The Pakistan foreign office added that Pak ministers had recently met top Chinese officials in Beijing including the Chinese vice-president in Beijing.

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PM Modi is set to engage President Xi at Wuhan over two days at Wuhan

Ahead of PM Modi and President Xi's meeting at Wuhan, Pakistan said its friendship with China "time-tested" based on mutual trust and convergence of interests on bilateral, regional and international issues. Pakistan's foreign office said relations with China are not aimed against any country. Pakistan and China continue to engage regularly on all matters of mutual interest, it said. PM Modi is set to engage President Xi at Wuhan over two days at Wuhan with both leaders set to discuss matters in an informal environment which is being keenly watched by South Asia experts, including by leaders in Indian and Pakistan. "We fully endorse foreign minister Wang Yi's recent statement that China-Pakistan all-weather strategic partnership is not only valuable treasure of the two countries, but also stands as an example for building new type international relations," the foreign office said, adding that "bilateral relations remain a priority" in the foreign policy of both countries. Talking about the impending visit, India's ambassador to China, said the two leaders might talk about the current world situation mainly aimed at understanding each other better. "We resolutely support each other’s core and major interests, strengthen collaboration on international and regional affairs to build China-Pakistan community of common destiny," Pakistan said in a statement. The Pakistan foreign office added that Pak ministers had recently met top Chinese officials in Beijing including the Chinese vice-president in Beijing.

'Relations with China 'time-tested,' says Pak ahead of Modi-Xi summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday left for China, to attend first of its kind 'informal summit'.

PM Modi in a statement, said the two Asian giants will review development in the relations from a strategic and long-term perspective.

Security has been beefed up in China's Wuhan city ahead of the summit between two leaders.

Teams of security personnel have been deployed at various locations where the convoy of the Asian leaders is expected to pass by.The airport of the Wuhan city and other places are expected to be on high-alert as the two leaders are scheduled to hold talks over two days, probably in open areas.

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It is an unprecedented summit to be held between the two global leaders where no memorandum of understanding or statement is expected to be issued after the summit.

Earlier in the day, Xi arrived at the Wuhan City ahead of the informal summit. Later in the evening, Prime Minister Modi will depart for Beijing.

They are expected to visit certain places in the Wuhan City, including the East Lake or Wuhan botanical garden, which is said to be the famous sight-seeing places of the Chinese commercial hub.&nbsp

(With inputs from ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday left for China, to attend first of its kind 'informal summit'. PM Modi in a statement, said the two Asian giants will review development in the relations from a strategic and long-term perspective. Security has been beefed up in China's Wuhan city ahead of the summit between two leaders. Teams of security personnel have been deployed at various locations where the convoy of the Asian leaders is expected to pass by.The airport of the Wuhan city and other places are expected to be on high-alert as the two leaders are scheduled to hold talks over two days, probably in open areas. #WATCH: PM Narendra Modi leaves for Wuhan, #China. He will hold an informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on 27th & 28th April. pic.twitter.com/k5P8DprVtW — ANI (@ANI) April 26, 2018 × It is an unprecedented summit to be held between the two global leaders where no memorandum of understanding or statement is expected to be issued after the summit. Earlier in the day, Xi arrived at the Wuhan City ahead of the informal summit. Later in the evening, Prime Minister Modi will depart for Beijing. They are expected to visit certain places in the Wuhan City, including the East Lake or Wuhan botanical garden, which is said to be the famous sight-seeing places of the Chinese commercial hub. (With inputs from ANI)

PM Narendra Modi leaves for China; security beefed up in Wuhan

The two-day-long informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping will take place in China's Wuhan city of Hubei province this Friday and Saturday.&nbsp

Both the leaders will hold bilateral meetings and discussions over a range of issues including the border standoffs and US President Donald Trump's 'protectionist' trade policy.&nbsp

"At the informal summit, the two leaders will have heart-to-heart discussions on overarching issues and try to build mutual trust and consensus to resolve outstanding differences," Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou told the media.

The city of Wuhan holds great significance for the summit that is in itself historic in nature. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will not sign any agreements or issue a joint statement at the Wuhan summit this week but they will try to build mutual trust and reach important consensus to resolve the outstanding issues.

This informal summit is the first of its kind and there is no precedent in each other's country, Kong noted.

"The frequent exchanges between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi in recent years have taken place in various forms. One example is the "hometown diplomacy" as characterized by President Xi Jinping's visit to India in 2014 and Prime Minister Modi's visit to China in 2015," Kong said.&nbsp

"In addition, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi have met several times on the sidelines of the summits of multilateral mechanisms such as BRICS, the G20, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization," he added.

"During these occasions, they exchanged views on issues of common interest and reached many important consensuses, which has offered strong guidance to the China-India relations and enabled a good working relationship and personal friendship between the two leaders. At the same time, in the face of unprecedented changes in the world today as well as uncertainty and instability in the current international situation, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi, as the leaders of the two largest developing countries, also feel that the two countries need to communicate in great depth on some long-term, comprehensive, and strategic issues embedded in bilateral relations and international affairs."

At Wuhan, the Indo-Sino ties are likely to get an overhaul which could translate into reduced differences and greater consensus between both the countries. The neighbouring countries could emerge as natural partners with deeper understanding and consensus on areas of disagreement.&nbsp

At Wuhan, Xi and Modi may mull over the current state of global affairs and mostly, how to drive international powers toward peace-building and brace-up for tougher global challenges.&nbsp

The leaders may share individual governance experiences to propel their respective nations toward growth and prosperity. Some of the areas of common interest shared by the Modi-government and Xi-led regime include international trade, global energy market, better and stronger representation at the BRICS, the SCO, and the G20.

It must be noted that India's role at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has not been an impressive one, something that has largely and mostly been seen as not conducive for the Europe-Asia enterprise the Wuhan summit thus becomes an opportunity for India to take a future course in such areas.&nbsp

This informal summit is the first of its kind and there is no precedent in each other's country

The two-day-long informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping will take place in China's Wuhan city of Hubei province this Friday and Saturday. Both the leaders will hold bilateral meetings and discussions over a range of issues including the border standoffs and US President Donald Trump's 'protectionist' trade policy. "At the informal summit, the two leaders will have heart-to-heart discussions on overarching issues and try to build mutual trust and consensus to resolve outstanding differences," Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou told the media. The city of Wuhan holds great significance for the summit that is in itself historic in nature. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will not sign any agreements or issue a joint statement at the Wuhan summit this week but they will try to build mutual trust and reach important consensus to resolve the outstanding issues. This informal summit is the first of its kind and there is no precedent in each other's country, Kong noted. "The frequent exchanges between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi in recent years have taken place in various forms. One example is the "hometown diplomacy" as characterized by President Xi Jinping's visit to India in 2014 and Prime Minister Modi's visit to China in 2015," Kong said. "In addition, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi have met several times on the sidelines of the summits of multilateral mechanisms such as BRICS, the G20, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization," he added. "During these occasions, they exchanged views on issues of common interest and reached many important consensuses, which has offered strong guidance to the China-India relations and enabled a good working relationship and personal friendship between the two leaders. At the same time, in the face of unprecedented changes in the world today as well as uncertainty and instability in the current international situation, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi, as the leaders of the two largest developing countries, also feel that the two countries need to communicate in great depth on some long-term, comprehensive, and strategic issues embedded in bilateral relations and international affairs." At Wuhan, the Indo-Sino ties are likely to get an overhaul which could translate into reduced differences and greater consensus between both the countries. The neighbouring countries could emerge as natural partners with deeper understanding and consensus on areas of disagreement. At Wuhan, Xi and Modi may mull over the current state of global affairs and mostly, how to drive international powers toward peace-building and brace-up for tougher global challenges. The leaders may share individual governance experiences to propel their respective nations toward growth and prosperity. Some of the areas of common interest shared by the Modi-government and Xi-led regime include international trade, global energy market, better and stronger representation at the BRICS, the SCO, and the G20. It must be noted that India's role at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has not been an impressive one, something that has largely and mostly been seen as not conducive for the Europe-Asia enterprise the Wuhan summit thus becomes an opportunity for India to take a future course in such areas.

At Wuhan, Modi, Xi to have heart-to-heart discussions: Chinese VP Xuanyou

Narendra Modi's signature hug&nbsp;hits the headlines every time he meets a world leader. Since Modi took over as Indian prime minister in 2014, world leaders have been the recipient of famous Modi hug.&nbsp;

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In February 2017, Modi welcomed his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau with a bear hug. Similarly, in June 2017, Modi caught US President Donald Trump off guard when he reciprocated to a handshake with a warm hug after a news conference at the White House.&nbsp;

Former President Barack Obama was also treated with hugs on all occasions when the two met. Modi continued his tradition of hugging world leaders when he met the newly elected French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris.

However, the hugs also landed a little awkwardly sometimes, like in 2016,&nbsp;when Modi embraced former French president Francois Hollande. The clumsy hug drew a lot of criticisms including from opposition Congress party which often mocked Modi's hugplomacy.&nbsp;

However, the Indian prime minister has never shied away from hugging his counterparts including in G20 summit in June 2017 when he embraced Russian President Vladimir Putin and Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

But Modi's signature hug was missing at the BRICS summit in Hamburg in 2017 when a firm handshake replaced it.&nbsp;At the other end was Chinese President Xi Jinping. &nbsp;

The two leaders shook hands and greeted each other as relations between India and China were tense then following&nbsp;Dokhlam standoff.&nbsp;

A year later Modi is meeting Xi again amid speculation that the thaw in ties will begin with a hug rather than a formal handshake. However, it's&nbsp;believed that the Chinese may not be comfortable about physical contact with people they are not too familiar with. It's more to do with culture than diplomatic.&nbsp;

Modi, who is known worldwide as a hugger, did not make the move on Xi at the BRICS summit in Hamburg, Germany in 2017

Narendra Modi's signature hug hits the headlines every time he meets a world leader. Since Modi took over as Indian prime minister in 2014, world leaders have been the recipient of famous Modi hug. × In February 2017, Modi welcomed his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau with a bear hug. Similarly, in June 2017, Modi caught US President Donald Trump off guard when he reciprocated to a handshake with a warm hug after a news conference at the White House. Former President Barack Obama was also treated with hugs on all occasions when the two met. Modi continued his tradition of hugging world leaders when he met the newly elected French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. However, the hugs also landed a little awkwardly sometimes, like in 2016, when Modi embraced former French president Francois Hollande. The clumsy hug drew a lot of criticisms including from opposition Congress party which often mocked Modi's hugplomacy. However, the Indian prime minister has never shied away from hugging his counterparts including in G20 summit in June 2017 when he embraced Russian President Vladimir Putin and Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott. But Modi's signature hug was missing at the BRICS summit in Hamburg in 2017 when a firm handshake replaced it. At the other end was Chinese President Xi Jinping. The two leaders shook hands and greeted each other as relations between India and China were tense then following Dokhlam standoff. A year later Modi is meeting Xi again amid speculation that the thaw in ties will begin with a hug rather than a formal handshake. However, it's believed that the Chinese may not be comfortable about physical contact with people they are not too familiar with. It's more to do with culture than diplomatic.

Wuhan summit is informal but will Modi hug Xi?

Security has been beefed up Wuhan on Thursday as China gears up to&nbsp;host Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Modi and&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping are to hold an informal summit in Wuhan.

The last meeting between Xi and Modi took place in China's eastern city of Xiamen last September after the ninth BRICS summit.

News agency Reuters report quoting&nbsp;Indian ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale stated that&nbsp;&nbsp;Modi's meeting with Xi will bear no agenda and will have a very friendly setting. However, he also said that the two leaders may still hold a candid dialogue on the pressing global issues and their outlook for the world and set a course for the development of bilateral ties.

Modi has sought to re-set ties after disputes over issues including their disputed border with Tibet and other issues.

The Asian giants were locked in a 73-day military stand-off in a remote, high-altitude stretch of that boundary last year. At one point, soldiers from the two sides threw stones and punches.

The last meeting between Xi and Modi took place in China's eastern city of Xiamen last September after the ninth BRICS summit.

Security has been beefed up Wuhan on Thursday as China gears up to host Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are to hold an informal summit in Wuhan. The last meeting between Xi and Modi took place in China's eastern city of Xiamen last September after the ninth BRICS summit. News agency Reuters report quoting Indian ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale stated that Modi's meeting with Xi will bear no agenda and will have a very friendly setting. However, he also said that the two leaders may still hold a candid dialogue on the pressing global issues and their outlook for the world and set a course for the development of bilateral ties. Modi has sought to re-set ties after disputes over issues including their disputed border with Tibet and other issues. The Asian giants were locked in a 73-day military stand-off in a remote, high-altitude stretch of that boundary last year. At one point, soldiers from the two sides threw stones and punches.

China gears up to welcome Modi for informal summit with Xi

Ahead of PM Modi's<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/with-trade-deficit-on-mind-modi-heads-to-wuhan-for-informal-meeting-with-xi-jinping-132774"> "informal visit" to China</a>, the local media has already begun to praise the Indian prime minister's initiative.

The state-run China Daily said these development sends "positive signals" after the border standoff between the Chinese and Indian armies at Doklam last year.

"It was vice-foreign minister Kong Xuanyou's visit to New Delhi on April 5-6 to hold talks with India's foreign secretary, which set the tone for the meeting between Xi-Modi in Wuhan," China daily said.

The daily however cautioned that negotiations on "remodeling" the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC) may prove difficult for Modi and Xi.

Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post(SCMP) said Xi and Modi's summit at Hubei's capital Wuhan on April 27-28 is in tune with "thaw in relations" in recent months.

China's right-leaning newspaper Global Times in its Oped page said the meeting between the two heads of state will help to "set the course"" for bilateral ties.

"Within China, hostility toward India is being replaced by hopes for friendly ties. The two countries need more communication to enhance mutual trust and eliminate the possibility of another border crisis," the editorial said.

The newspaper said China and India have a more "robust economic development than other emerging countries and are both independent."

"China and India cooled down soon after the Doklam standoff, which indicates the solid foundation for ties," it added.

In another article in SCMP, the writer said China has much to gain with the development of economic relations with India especially from a growing export economy.

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In an article in SCMP, the writer said China has much to gain with the development of economic relations with India

Ahead of PM Modi's "informal visit" to China, the local media has already begun to praise the Indian prime minister's initiative. The state-run China Daily said these development sends "positive signals" after the border standoff between the Chinese and Indian armies at Doklam last year. "It was vice-foreign minister Kong Xuanyou's visit to New Delhi on April 5-6 to hold talks with India's foreign secretary, which set the tone for the meeting between Xi-Modi in Wuhan," China daily said. The daily however cautioned that negotiations on "remodeling" the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC) may prove difficult for Modi and Xi. Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post(SCMP) said Xi and Modi's summit at Hubei's capital Wuhan on April 27-28 is in tune with "thaw in relations" in recent months. China's right-leaning newspaper Global Times in its Oped page said the meeting between the two heads of state will help to "set the course"" for bilateral ties. "Within China, hostility toward India is being replaced by hopes for friendly ties. The two countries need more communication to enhance mutual trust and eliminate the possibility of another border crisis," the editorial said. The newspaper said China and India have a more "robust economic development than other emerging countries and are both independent." "China and India cooled down soon after the Doklam standoff, which indicates the solid foundation for ties," it added. In another article in SCMP, the writer said China has much to gain with the development of economic relations with India especially from a growing export economy.

Hostility towards India being replaced by hopes for friendly ties: Chinese media

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit China for two days for an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-will-not-sign-agreements-at-wuhan-summit-but-build-trust-to-resolve-bilateral-issues-china-132552">'informal meeting'</a> with President Xi Jinping, as efforts at rapprochement gather pace following a testing year in ties between the two giant neighbours.

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said the two would meet on Friday and Saturday in the central <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/why-is-india-china-wuhan-summit-different--132672">Chinese city of Wuhan</a>. He added that PM Modi is visiting Wuhan at the invitation of President Xi.

But the details of the meeting, which is reported to have been called suddenly, were being worked upon for the past many days. The meeting of India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval with China's State Councillor on April 13, and presence of foreign minister Sushma Swaraj and defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman in China point towards this.

"Our common interests far outweigh our differences. The two countries have no choice other than pursuing everlasting friendship, mutually beneficial cooperation and common development," Wang told reporters after meeting Swaraj in Beijing.

Swaraj confirmed later that her discussion with Wang was to prepare for the informal summit.

<a href="www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-to-chart-a-new-course-for-india-china-ties-at-wuhan-summit--132075">Modi's visit</a> is being considered as a bold step, especially after the Doklam stand-off and other border issues. The Asian giants were locked in a 73-day military stand-off in Doklam last year. At one point, soldiers from the two sides threw stones and punches.

This is the fourth time Modi will be visiting China after becoming the Prime Minister. He visited China for bilateral talks in 2015, then again in 2016 to take part in G-20 summit. Modi also attended the BRICS Summit last year in China.

It is almost unheard of for foreign leaders to visit China in such close succession. Xi is also extending Modi the rare honour of a meeting outside of Beijing, which almost never happens unless there is a multilateral summit taking place. Chinese officials said Modi will stay in the most comfortable place in Wuhan.

"The two leaders will spend two days in Wuhan. In these two days, they will engage with other on various forums. What I can tell you here is that they will spend a lot of time together one-on-one," Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou said. "Leaders in the past met in multilateral occasions, 30 minutes or one hour. Those meetings are important but personally speaking the meetings on the multilateral occasions are more ceremonial meetings," he added.

What's on the agenda?

Trade talks are likely to dominate the meeting between Modi and Xi. With a trade war brewing between US and China, Beijing is keen to amp up the volume of trade with New Delhi. Currently, the trade deficit between the two countries is close to Rs 3.5 lakh crore, though exports have risen by 39 per cent and imports by 14. India has been trying hard to reduce the trade deficit and has been asking Beijing to open IT and pharma sectors for Indian firms.

The second talking point between two leaders is going to be the border issue. Both Modi and Xi are likely to discuss the situation in Doklam and iron out issues pertaining to the network of roads in border areas.

However, sources in New Delhi said the meeting will not have an "issue-based discussion but a strategic conversation between the two leaders to understand each other's perspective on national and international matters". They also said that the summit is not aimed at "resetting" India-China ties.

At the informal summit, the two leaders will have strategic communication on the major changes in the international landscape unseen in more than 100 years. They will have in-depth exchange of views on the issues of overarching long-term and strategic importance in the bilateral relations, Kong said.

"This time we will make the first attempt to hold the informal summit. I am confident that with the joint efforts of both sides the new format will live up to the expectations," he added.&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp

It is almost unheard of for foreign leaders to visit China in such close succession.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit China for two days for an 'informal meeting' with President Xi Jinping, as efforts at rapprochement gather pace following a testing year in ties between the two giant neighbours. Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said the two would meet on Friday and Saturday in the central Chinese city of Wuhan. He added that PM Modi is visiting Wuhan at the invitation of President Xi. But the details of the meeting, which is reported to have been called suddenly, were being worked upon for the past many days. The meeting of India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval with China's State Councillor on April 13, and presence of foreign minister Sushma Swaraj and defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman in China point towards this. "Our common interests far outweigh our differences. The two countries have no choice other than pursuing everlasting friendship, mutually beneficial cooperation and common development," Wang told reporters after meeting Swaraj in Beijing. Swaraj confirmed later that her discussion with Wang was to prepare for the informal summit. Modi's visit is being considered as a bold step, especially after the Doklam stand-off and other border issues. The Asian giants were locked in a 73-day military stand-off in Doklam last year. At one point, soldiers from the two sides threw stones and punches. This is the fourth time Modi will be visiting China after becoming the Prime Minister. He visited China for bilateral talks in 2015, then again in 2016 to take part in G-20 summit. Modi also attended the BRICS Summit last year in China. It is almost unheard of for foreign leaders to visit China in such close succession. Xi is also extending Modi the rare honour of a meeting outside of Beijing, which almost never happens unless there is a multilateral summit taking place. Chinese officials said Modi will stay in the most comfortable place in Wuhan. "The two leaders will spend two days in Wuhan. In these two days, they will engage with other on various forums. What I can tell you here is that they will spend a lot of time together one-on-one," Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou said. "Leaders in the past met in multilateral occasions, 30 minutes or one hour. Those meetings are important but personally speaking the meetings on the multilateral occasions are more ceremonial meetings," he added. What's on the agenda? Trade talks are likely to dominate the meeting between Modi and Xi. With a trade war brewing between US and China, Beijing is keen to amp up the volume of trade with New Delhi. Currently, the trade deficit between the two countries is close to Rs 3.5 lakh crore, though exports have risen by 39 per cent and imports by 14. India has been trying hard to reduce the trade deficit and has been asking Beijing to open IT and pharma sectors for Indian firms. The second talking point between two leaders is going to be the border issue. Both Modi and Xi are likely to discuss the situation in Doklam and iron out issues pertaining to the network of roads in border areas. However, sources in New Delhi said the meeting will not have an "issue-based discussion but a strategic conversation between the two leaders to understand each other's perspective on national and international matters". They also said that the summit is not aimed at "resetting" India-China ties. At the informal summit, the two leaders will have strategic communication on the major changes in the international landscape unseen in more than 100 years. They will have in-depth exchange of views on the issues of overarching long-term and strategic importance in the bilateral relations, Kong said. "This time we will make the first attempt to hold the informal summit. I am confident that with the joint efforts of both sides the new format will live up to the expectations," he added.

With trade deficit on mind, Modi heads to Wuhan for 'informal meeting' with Xi Jinping

Heavy rain around China&#39;s Yangtze river basin has left 128 people dead and scores missing, media said on Tuesday, with more damage feared from a typhoon expected to land this week. 
 
Flooding has forced some 1.3 million people to evacuate vast areas near China&#39;s longest river and its connected waterways, the official Xinhua news agency cited the civil affairs ministry as saying. 
 
Millions more are threatened by the continuing downpour, which began at the end of June and has already destroyed at least 41,000 homes, it said. 
 
Water levels in Taihu Lake near Shanghai are at their highest level in decades, according to Beijing News, which said the area faces a serious risk of flooding if a typhoon hits on Friday as forecast.&nbsp; 
 
A farmer in eastern China broke down in tears as waters rose around his thousands of pigs, photos posted on state media showed. 
 
Other images showed a sports stadium in the central province of Hubei turned into a &quot;giant bathtub&quot; by the rainfall. 
 
Damage so far is estimated at over 38.16 billion Yuan ($5.73 billion) and 42 people are missing, according to Xinhua. 
 
Flooding is common during the summer monsoon season in southern China, but rainfall has been particularly heavy this year and many areas have been lashed by torrential rains this week. 
 
Rain is expected to move north in the coming days towards the Huai river, Beijing News reported. 
 
China&#39;s vice premier Wang Yang warned last month that a strong El Nino effect this year would increase the risk of flooding in the Yangtze and Huai river basins. 
 
An El Nino effect was linked to China&#39;s worst floods of recent years when more than 4,000 people died in 1998, mostly around the Yangtze. 
 
The Beijing News quoted a meteorologist as saying that rain patterns this year were more disparate than in 1998, diminishing the risk of a similar toll. 
 
China&#39;s national observatory issued an orange alert for storms across the country&#39;s south and east last week -- the second highest warning in a four-tiered system. 
 
Whole villages were levelled and at least 98 killed in the eastern province of Jiangsu last month after the region was hit by a storm with hurricane-force winds and the worst tornado in half a century. 
 
(AFP)

Flooding has forced some 1.3 million people to evacuate, at least 41,000 homes have been destroyed

Heavy rain around China's Yangtze river basin has left 128 people dead and scores missing, media said on Tuesday, with more damage feared from a typhoon expected to land this week. Flooding has forced some 1.3 million people to evacuate vast areas near China's longest river and its connected waterways, the official Xinhua news agency cited the civil affairs ministry as saying. Millions more are threatened by the continuing downpour, which began at the end of June and has already destroyed at least 41,000 homes, it said. Water levels in Taihu Lake near Shanghai are at their highest level in decades, according to Beijing News, which said the area faces a serious risk of flooding if a typhoon hits on Friday as forecast. A farmer in eastern China broke down in tears as waters rose around his thousands of pigs, photos posted on state media showed. Other images showed a sports stadium in the central province of Hubei turned into a "giant bathtub" by the rainfall. Damage so far is estimated at over 38.16 billion Yuan ($5.73 billion) and 42 people are missing, according to Xinhua. Flooding is common during the summer monsoon season in southern China, but rainfall has been particularly heavy this year and many areas have been lashed by torrential rains this week. Rain is expected to move north in the coming days towards the Huai river, Beijing News reported. China's vice premier Wang Yang warned last month that a strong El Nino effect this year would increase the risk of flooding in the Yangtze and Huai river basins. An El Nino effect was linked to China's worst floods of recent years when more than 4,000 people died in 1998, mostly around the Yangtze. The Beijing News quoted a meteorologist as saying that rain patterns this year were more disparate than in 1998, diminishing the risk of a similar toll. China's national observatory issued an orange alert for storms across the country's south and east last week -- the second highest warning in a four-tiered system. Whole villages were levelled and at least 98 killed in the eastern province of Jiangsu last month after the region was hit by a storm with hurricane-force winds and the worst tornado in half a century. (AFP)

Heavy rains in China leave 128 dead

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