This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - October 17th, 2019

A Chinese company signed an agreement to lease an entire island in the Solomon Islands a day after Beijing recruited the Pacific nation as its latest ally in the strategically important region, according to documents obtained by AFP Thursday.

The leaked papers reveal that the Solomons' Central Province made a "strategic cooperation agreement" on Tulagi Island, which has the type of deep-water harbour coveted by the military, with the state-owned China Sam Group on September 22.

A day previously, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-solomon-islands-sign-deals-under-new-diplomatic-ties-254666">China and the Solomons</a> officially established diplomatic relations after Beijing persuaded the impoverished Pacific nation to sever ties with arch-rival Taiwan and become its ally.

Tulagi, an island about two square kilometres with a population of 1,200, is the site of a former Japanese naval base and was the scene of fierce fighting in World War II.

The agreement with China Sam mentions developing a refinery on the island, but its potential for dual use as a Chinese military base is certain to raise concerns with the United States and Australia.

"Party A (Central Province) is willing to first lease the whole Tulagi island and the surrounding islands to Party B (China Sam) for the development of the special economic zone," the agreement says.

It goes on to say the deal covers "any other industry that is suitable for development, including oil and gas development".

China Sam said in a statement issued Thursday that it was committed to cooperating with the Solomons in a number of areas, including trade, infrastructure, fisheries and tourism.

Jonathan Pryke, director of Sydney-based foreign policy think tank the Lowy Institute's Pacific programme, said it was not unusual for China to promise such special economic zones to developing nations that were desperate for investment.

"The fear is that these zones can in turn create enclaves of Chinese operations that could then grow over time into some kind of permanent strategic facility," he told AFP.

"The island in question in Solomon Islands has deep water anchorage so could have such strategic uses down the road."

Taiwan was previously the Solomons' largest ally in the Pacific region and the decision to ditch it for China after months of speculation was seen as a major diplomatic coup for Beijing.

Days later another Taipei loyalist in the region, Kiribati, did likewise.

The manoeuvring left Taiwan with just four nations that officially recognise it in the Pacific and 15 worldwide, while also alarming traditional western democratic powers.

The Pacific has long been a proxy battleground for Taiwan and China, with local leaders adept at playing one against the other for financial gain.

China has become more assertive in the Pacific as its economic might has grown and sees Taiwan as a renegade state which will eventually be unified with the mainland, by force if necessary.

Other regional heavyweights, particularly Australia, fear Beijing's ultimate aim is to set up a naval base in the Pacific which would dramatically increase its military footprint in the area.

Such a move would potentially negate the geographic remoteness that provides Australia and New Zealand with a valuable defence buffer.

However, China Sam's arrangement with Central Province may count for little as it has not been approved by the central government in Honiara.

Central's Premier Stanley Manetiva played down its impacts in an interview with Radio New Zealand.

"To be honest here, leasing Tulagi will not be possible," he said. "Nothing will eventuate on the agreement."

Whether or not the deal goes ahead, the Lowy Institute's Pryke said the diplomatic upheavals between China and Taiwan were affecting good governance in the region.

"Corruption by its very nature is hard to quantify and systems of patronage were alive and well in the Pacific long before this new wave of Chinese engagement," he said.

"But this new Chinese engagement is certainly happening in a hurry, and it is most definitely making corruption in the Pacific worse."

A Chinese company signed an agreement to lease an entire island in the Solomon Islands a day after Beijing recruited the Pacific nation as its latest ally in the strategically important region, according to documents obtained by AFP Thursday.

A Chinese company signed an agreement to lease an entire island in the Solomon Islands a day after Beijing recruited the Pacific nation as its latest ally in the strategically important region, according to documents obtained by AFP Thursday. The leaked papers reveal that the Solomons' Central Province made a "strategic cooperation agreement" on Tulagi Island, which has the type of deep-water harbour coveted by the military, with the state-owned China Sam Group on September 22. A day previously, China and the Solomons officially established diplomatic relations after Beijing persuaded the impoverished Pacific nation to sever ties with arch-rival Taiwan and become its ally. Tulagi, an island about two square kilometres with a population of 1,200, is the site of a former Japanese naval base and was the scene of fierce fighting in World War II. The agreement with China Sam mentions developing a refinery on the island, but its potential for dual use as a Chinese military base is certain to raise concerns with the United States and Australia. "Party A (Central Province) is willing to first lease the whole Tulagi island and the surrounding islands to Party B (China Sam) for the development of the special economic zone," the agreement says. It goes on to say the deal covers "any other industry that is suitable for development, including oil and gas development". China Sam said in a statement issued Thursday that it was committed to cooperating with the Solomons in a number of areas, including trade, infrastructure, fisheries and tourism. Jonathan Pryke, director of Sydney-based foreign policy think tank the Lowy Institute's Pacific programme, said it was not unusual for China to promise such special economic zones to developing nations that were desperate for investment. "The fear is that these zones can in turn create enclaves of Chinese operations that could then grow over time into some kind of permanent strategic facility," he told AFP. "The island in question in Solomon Islands has deep water anchorage so could have such strategic uses down the road." Taiwan was previously the Solomons' largest ally in the Pacific region and the decision to ditch it for China after months of speculation was seen as a major diplomatic coup for Beijing. Days later another Taipei loyalist in the region, Kiribati, did likewise. The manoeuvring left Taiwan with just four nations that officially recognise it in the Pacific and 15 worldwide, while also alarming traditional western democratic powers. The Pacific has long been a proxy battleground for Taiwan and China, with local leaders adept at playing one against the other for financial gain. China has become more assertive in the Pacific as its economic might has grown and sees Taiwan as a renegade state which will eventually be unified with the mainland, by force if necessary. Other regional heavyweights, particularly Australia, fear Beijing's ultimate aim is to set up a naval base in the Pacific which would dramatically increase its military footprint in the area. Such a move would potentially negate the geographic remoteness that provides Australia and New Zealand with a valuable defence buffer. However, China Sam's arrangement with Central Province may count for little as it has not been approved by the central government in Honiara. Central's Premier Stanley Manetiva played down its impacts in an interview with Radio New Zealand. "To be honest here, leasing Tulagi will not be possible," he said. "Nothing will eventuate on the agreement." Whether or not the deal goes ahead, the Lowy Institute's Pryke said the diplomatic upheavals between China and Taiwan were affecting good governance in the region. "Corruption by its very nature is hard to quantify and systems of patronage were alive and well in the Pacific long before this new wave of Chinese engagement," he said. "But this new Chinese engagement is certainly happening in a hurry, and it is most definitely making corruption in the Pacific worse."

China signs deal to 'lease' Pacific island in Solomons

The partial trade bargain struck last week with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sees-no-difference-with-us-on-trade-deal-256089">China is now being formally put down in writing</a>, United States President Donald Trump said Wednesday.

"It hasn't been papered yet but it is being papered," Trump told reporters at the White House.

He reiterated that China committed to greater purchases of US farm exports, and made concessions because of economic pressure by Washington.

"They want to make a deal. They have to make a deal. Their economy has been hurt very badly by what we've done and the tariffs," Trump said.

Markets rallied Friday as the deal was struck, in relief after the steady escalation in the trade conflict with China.

Last week, Trump hailed a breakthrough on a "phase one" deal that he said was substantial and included a surge in purchases of American farm products and also&nbsp;covers intellectual property, financial services and currencies.

However, comments from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-falls-more-than-2-on-us-china-trade-deal-doubts-stronger-dollar-256002">officials in Beijing</a> raised skepticism about the significance of the agreement.

While the deal meant tariffs increases planned for this week would not go forward, it did not roll back any of the stinging import duties imposed up to now on hundreds of billions of dollars in trade between the economic powers, nor did it address another round of import taxes planned for December.

Scant specifics are available but Trump says he hopes to sign the agreement with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the APEC summit in Chile next month.

The partial trade bargain struck last week with China is now being formally put down in writing, United States President Donald Trump said Wednesday. "It hasn't been papered yet but it is being papered," Trump told reporters at the White House.

The partial trade bargain struck last week with China is now being formally put down in writing, United States President Donald Trump said Wednesday. "It hasn't been papered yet but it is being papered," Trump told reporters at the White House. He reiterated that China committed to greater purchases of US farm exports, and made concessions because of economic pressure by Washington. "They want to make a deal. They have to make a deal. Their economy has been hurt very badly by what we've done and the tariffs," Trump said. Markets rallied Friday as the deal was struck, in relief after the steady escalation in the trade conflict with China. Last week, Trump hailed a breakthrough on a "phase one" deal that he said was substantial and included a surge in purchases of American farm products and also covers intellectual property, financial services and currencies. However, comments from officials in Beijing raised skepticism about the significance of the agreement. While the deal meant tariffs increases planned for this week would not go forward, it did not roll back any of the stinging import duties imposed up to now on hundreds of billions of dollars in trade between the economic powers, nor did it address another round of import taxes planned for December. Scant specifics are available but Trump says he hopes to sign the agreement with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the APEC summit in Chile next month.

United States-China trade mini-deal being 'papered': Trump

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - October 16th, 2019

The fruitful informal meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paves the way for mutually beneficial development, and the rejuvenation of the two civilizations, according to a China Media Group (CMG) commentary published on Sunday.

China, India plan development and rejuvenation with strategic thinking: commentary

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - October 15th, 2019

Gautam Bambawale, Former Indian Ambassador to China speaks on Xi's warning to Hong Kong.

Gautam Bambawale on Xi's warning to Hong Kong

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - October 14th, 2019

Erin Hale, Journalist on President Xi's warning to Hong Kong. To know more watch the video

Erin Hale, Journalist on President Xi's warning to Hong Kong

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/americas/donald-trump-xi-jinping-and-trade-a-high-stakes-game-of-chicken-216697">Xi Jinping</a> has warned that any attempts to split China would result in "bodies smashed and bones ground to powder", amid four months of anti-Beijing unrest in Hong Kong.

Xi issued the dire message during a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-china-ink-18-agreements-two-letters-of-understanding-255661">weekend visit to Nepal,</a> according to a foreign ministry statement released on Sunday.

"Anyone who attempts to split any region from China will perish, with their bodies smashed and bones ground to powder," Xi said, according to the ministry.

"Any external forces that support the splitting of China can only be regarded as delusional by the Chinese people," he said during a visit to Nepal.

Watch:&nbsp;

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While the Chinese leader did not mention any region by name, his comments came as riot police and pro-democracy protesters clashed again in Hong Kong on Sunday and amid tensions with self-ruled Taiwan.

Rallies erupted in multiple neighbourhoods of the financial hub, with some protesters blocking roads, sabotaging train tracks, and trashing pro-China businesses.

China has accused "external forces" of fuelling unrest in the semi-autonomous city, a former British colony that enjoys rights unheard of in the mainland, such as freedom of speech.

The protests were sparked by opposition to a now-scrapped proposal to allow extraditions to mainland China, but have since morphed into a larger movement for democracy and police accountability.

There have been concerns that China could send in troops to put an end to the unrest, but Beijing has so far said it believes Hong Kong's police force is capable of handling the protests.

Few analysts believe Beijing would risk international condemnation by repeating its 1989 crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators in Tiananmen Square, when it deployed tanks and troops to quash the uprising, leaving hundreds, perhaps more than 1,000, dead.

Beijing has also hardened its stance with democratic Taipei since President Tsai Ing-wen was elected in 2016, as her government refuses to acknowledge that Taiwan is part of "one China".

Taiwan has ruled itself since the end of a civil war in 1949, but China views the island as its territory and has vowed to seize it -- by force if necessary.

Another source of tension is US criticism of Beijing's security crackdown in the northwest region of Xinjiang, where more than one million mostly Muslim minorities are believed to be held in internment camps.

China defends the camps as "vocational education centres" aimed at combating separatism and religious extremism.

President Xi Jinping has warned that any attempts to split China would result in "bodies smashed and bones ground to powder", amid four months of anti-Beijing unrest in Hong Kong.

President Xi Jinping has warned that any attempts to split China would result in "bodies smashed and bones ground to powder", amid four months of anti-Beijing unrest in Hong Kong. Xi issued the dire message during a weekend visit to Nepal, according to a foreign ministry statement released on Sunday. "Anyone who attempts to split any region from China will perish, with their bodies smashed and bones ground to powder," Xi said, according to the ministry. "Any external forces that support the splitting of China can only be regarded as delusional by the Chinese people," he said during a visit to Nepal. Watch: While the Chinese leader did not mention any region by name, his comments came as riot police and pro-democracy protesters clashed again in Hong Kong on Sunday and amid tensions with self-ruled Taiwan. Rallies erupted in multiple neighbourhoods of the financial hub, with some protesters blocking roads, sabotaging train tracks, and trashing pro-China businesses. China has accused "external forces" of fuelling unrest in the semi-autonomous city, a former British colony that enjoys rights unheard of in the mainland, such as freedom of speech. The protests were sparked by opposition to a now-scrapped proposal to allow extraditions to mainland China, but have since morphed into a larger movement for democracy and police accountability. There have been concerns that China could send in troops to put an end to the unrest, but Beijing has so far said it believes Hong Kong's police force is capable of handling the protests. Few analysts believe Beijing would risk international condemnation by repeating its 1989 crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators in Tiananmen Square, when it deployed tanks and troops to quash the uprising, leaving hundreds, perhaps more than 1,000, dead. Beijing has also hardened its stance with democratic Taipei since President Tsai Ing-wen was elected in 2016, as her government refuses to acknowledge that Taiwan is part of "one China". Taiwan has ruled itself since the end of a civil war in 1949, but China views the island as its territory and has vowed to seize it -- by force if necessary. Another source of tension is US criticism of Beijing's security crackdown in the northwest region of Xinjiang, where more than one million mostly Muslim minorities are believed to be held in internment camps. China defends the camps as "vocational education centres" aimed at combating separatism and religious extremism.

Anyone attempting to split China will end in shattered bones: Xi Jinping in Nepal

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - October 13th, 2019

In this video know about the big takeaways & agendas of PM Modi-Xi Jingping's 2nd informal summit.

Big takeaways & agendas of 2nd Indo-China informal summit

In this video know, What went unnoticed during Modi-Xinping's informal summit? Watch this video for more details.

What went unnoticed during Modi-Xinping's informal summit?

Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Saturday that the Chinese side stands ready to enhance communication and cooperation with the Nepali legislatures and jointly consolidate the friendship between the two countries.

Chinese President: 'China-Nepal friendship, standing as high and magnificent as the Himalayas'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday stole some quiet time for himself amid his busy schedule and took a walk on the seaside of the Mamallapuram beach in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

"Refreshing walk and exercises in Mamallapuram, along the scenic coast," the prime minister tweeted out today along with pictures of him walking and exercising on the scenic beachside of Mamallapuram.&nbsp;

The prime minister arrived at the coastal town, also known as Mahabalipuram, yesterday for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-president-xi-one-on-one-talks-lunch-to-sum-up-mamallapuram-second-india-china-informal-summit-today-255371">second informal India-China summit</a> with Chinese President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rolls-out-red-carpet-to-welcome-xi-in-chennai-255256">Xi Jinping</a>.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamallapuram-modi-xi-enjoy-carnatic-music-kathakali-at-sea-facing-shore-temple-255335">PM Modi</a> this morning was also seen cleaning the beach, taking the 'swachhta abhiyan' to Mamallapuram.&nbsp;

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Plogging at a beach in Mamallapuram this morning. It lasted for over 30 minutes. 
 
Also handed over my ‘collection’ to Jeyaraj, who is a part of the hotel staff. 
 
Let us ensure our public places are clean and tidy! 
 
Let us also ensure we remain fit and healthy. <a href="https://t.co/qBHLTxtM9y">pic.twitter.com/qBHLTxtM9y</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1182863814217420806?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Plogging at a beach in Mamallapuram this morning. It lasted for over 30 minutes. Also handed over my ‘collection’ to Jeyaraj, who is a part of the hotel staff," PM's tweet read.

The prime minister, in his post, urged everyone to remain committed to the cause of cleanliness and stay fit and active.&nbsp;

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Refreshing walk and exercises in Mamallapuram, along the scenic coast. <a href="https://t.co/UjUq8FbVAv">pic.twitter.com/UjUq8FbVAv</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1182863131606831104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Let us ensure our public places are clean and tidy! Let us also ensure we remain fit and healthy," he tweeted.&nbsp;

Watch: Indo-China informal summit - Modi, Xi spend five hours of 'quality time'

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Chinese President&nbsp;Xi Jinping's&nbsp;short visit to India will come to an end this afternoon after attending the lunch hosted by PM Modi. President Xi will leave for Nepal this afternoon.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday stole some quiet time for himself amid his busy schedule and took a walk on the seaside of the Mamallapuram beach in Tamil Nadu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday stole some quiet time for himself amid his busy schedule and took a walk on the seaside of the Mamallapuram beach in Tamil Nadu. "Refreshing walk and exercises in Mamallapuram, along the scenic coast," the prime minister tweeted out today along with pictures of him walking and exercising on the scenic beachside of Mamallapuram. The prime minister arrived at the coastal town, also known as Mahabalipuram, yesterday for the second informal India-China summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping. PM Modi this morning was also seen cleaning the beach, taking the 'swachhta abhiyan' to Mamallapuram. Plogging at a beach in Mamallapuram this morning. It lasted for over 30 minutes. Also handed over my ‘collection’ to Jeyaraj, who is a part of the hotel staff. Let us ensure our public places are clean and tidy! Let us also ensure we remain fit and healthy. pic.twitter.com/qBHLTxtM9y — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 12, 2019 × "Plogging at a beach in Mamallapuram this morning. It lasted for over 30 minutes. Also handed over my ‘collection’ to Jeyaraj, who is a part of the hotel staff," PM's tweet read. The prime minister, in his post, urged everyone to remain committed to the cause of cleanliness and stay fit and active. Refreshing walk and exercises in Mamallapuram, along the scenic coast. pic.twitter.com/UjUq8FbVAv — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 12, 2019 × "Let us ensure our public places are clean and tidy! Let us also ensure we remain fit and healthy," he tweeted. Watch: Indo-China informal summit - Modi, Xi spend five hours of 'quality time' × Chinese President Xi Jinping's short visit to India will come to an end this afternoon after attending the lunch hosted by PM Modi. President Xi will leave for Nepal this afternoon.

Watch: PM Modi takes 'swachhta' mission to Mamallapuram, spends 30 minutes cleaning the beach 

Modi-Xi Summit: Modi and Xi script new chapter in Chennai

Modi-Xi Summit: Decoding 'Chennai Connect' Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are likely to discuss&nbsp;ways to improve people-to-people contact, enhance trade and on how to maintain peace and tranquillity along the 3, 500-kilometre long India-China border during their talks on the second day of the India-China informal summit.&nbsp;

The talks will be followed by delegation-level talks.

The two leaders met at the Tanjo Hall at Taj Fisherman's Cove for the second round of their informal talks today. Today's meeting will focus on international and regional issues, announced foreign secretary Vijay K Gokhale. The two sides will also issue separate statements of the outcomes of the two-day informal summit.

Xi's short visit to India will come to an end this afternoon after attending the lunch hosted by PM Modi. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rolls-out-red-carpet-to-welcome-xi-in-chennai-255256">President Xi</a> will leave for Nepal this afternoon.&nbsp;

The Chinese President arrived at the Chennai airport on Friday amid a rousing welcome. Shortly after his arrival, he left for Mamallapuram where the two leaders visited three UNESCO heritage sites and soaked in the cultural diversity of South India.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamallapuram-modi-xi-enjoy-carnatic-music-kathakali-at-sea-facing-shore-temple-255335">PM Modi received President Xi</a> at the Arjuna's Penance in traditional south Indian attire--veshti and angavastram, a south Indian garment draped over the shoulder. Both leaders were seen immersed in a friendly chat with PM Modi explaining to Xi the historical importance of the sites.&nbsp;

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Trade and terror were the focus of the first day of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-jinping-soak-in-cultural-extravaganza-as-second-informal-summit-gets-underway-in-mamallapuram-255338">2nd India-China informal summit</a> in Mamallapuram. The two leaders spent around five hours of "quality time" with each other on Friday.&nbsp;

The one-on-one dinner lasted over two hours wherein both the leaders discussed their national vision and governance priorities. Terror and trade was the top focus during the first day of Xi's India visit.

"There were discussions on trade-related issues and on economic issues and trying to identify areas for investment which two countries can encourage and how to enhance trade volume and trade value which include the issue of trade deficit and unbalance trade," foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said. &nbsp;

India and China also discussed the "challenges both countries face on account of terrorism. Both leaders said that these are large countries and radicalisation is a matter of concern for both and that both will work together to see that radicalisation and terrorism did not impact the fabric of our multicultural, multiethnic and multi-religious societies and a general sense that this was a common challenge and we will work together," Gokhale added.&nbsp;

 
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are likely to discuss ways to improve people-to-people contact, enhance trade and on how to maintain peace and tranquillity along the 3, 500-kilometre long India-China border during their talks on the second day of the India-China informal summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are likely to discuss ways to improve people-to-people contact, enhance trade and on how to maintain peace and tranquillity along the 3, 500-kilometre long India-China border during their talks on the second day of the India-China informal summit. The talks will be followed by delegation-level talks. The two leaders met at the Tanjo Hall at Taj Fisherman's Cove for the second round of their informal talks today. Today's meeting will focus on international and regional issues, announced foreign secretary Vijay K Gokhale. The two sides will also issue separate statements of the outcomes of the two-day informal summit. Xi's short visit to India will come to an end this afternoon after attending the lunch hosted by PM Modi. President Xi will leave for Nepal this afternoon. The Chinese President arrived at the Chennai airport on Friday amid a rousing welcome. Shortly after his arrival, he left for Mamallapuram where the two leaders visited three UNESCO heritage sites and soaked in the cultural diversity of South India. PM Modi received President Xi at the Arjuna's Penance in traditional south Indian attire--veshti and angavastram, a south Indian garment draped over the shoulder. Both leaders were seen immersed in a friendly chat with PM Modi explaining to Xi the historical importance of the sites. × Trade and terror were the focus of the first day of 2nd India-China informal summit in Mamallapuram. The two leaders spent around five hours of "quality time" with each other on Friday. The one-on-one dinner lasted over two hours wherein both the leaders discussed their national vision and governance priorities. Terror and trade was the top focus during the first day of Xi's India visit. "There were discussions on trade-related issues and on economic issues and trying to identify areas for investment which two countries can encourage and how to enhance trade volume and trade value which include the issue of trade deficit and unbalance trade," foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said. India and China also discussed the "challenges both countries face on account of terrorism. Both leaders said that these are large countries and radicalisation is a matter of concern for both and that both will work together to see that radicalisation and terrorism did not impact the fabric of our multicultural, multiethnic and multi-religious societies and a general sense that this was a common challenge and we will work together," Gokhale added.

Modi-Xi summit: Day-2 to focus on boosting people-to-people contact and trade, maintaining peace

Amid the discussion on Trade and Terror, Here are the glimpses of Bonhomie in 2nd Informal Summit between PM Modi and Xi-Jinping.

Modi-Xi Summit:  PM Modi's warmth vs Xi's Oriental grace

Trade and terror were the top focus on the first day of the second India-China informal summit as leaders of Asia's two largest countries met in the coastal town of Mamallapuram in Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

Trade and terror were the top focus on the first day of the second India-China informal summit as leaders of Asia's two largest countries met in the coastal town of Mamallapuram in Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The first day of the informal summit saw, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping spending five hours of "quality time". PM Modi showed Chinese President thousands of years old UNESCO world heritage sites of Arjuna’s Penance, Krishna's butterball, Panch Rathas and Shore Temple which was followed by a cultural extravaganza that lasted for two hours. The one-on-one dinner lasted for more than two hours wherein which both the leaders discussed their national vision and governance priorities. Terror and trade was the top focus during the first day. On trade, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "There were discussions on trade-related issues and economic issues and trying to identify areas for investment which two countries can encourage and how to enhance trade volume and trade value which include the issue of trade deficit and unbalance trade." On terror, India and China discussed the "challenges both countries face on account of terrorism. Both leaders said that these are large countries and radicalisation is a matter of concern for both and that both will work together to see that radicalisation and terrorism did not impact the fabric of our multicultural, multiethnic and multi-religious societies and a general sense that this was a common challenge and we will work together," Gokhale added. PM Modi received President Xi at the Arjuna's Penance in traditional south Indian attire, veshti (Dhoti worn in the South Indian way) and angavastram, a South Indian garment draped over the shoulder. Both leaders were seen talking to each other with PM Modi explaining Xi the history of the sites. Addressing the media, Foreign Secretary said the visuals at the separate sites reflect the "personal rapport" they have built in the backdrop of 17 meetings since 2014. Gokhale said, "President and PM during that tour of the monuments spoke of the historical and trading links between the southern part of India, particularly Tamil Nadu under Pallava and Chola dynasties and the eastern coast of China, particularly Fujian province." PM Modi also explained the significance of world heritage sites and highlighted the "harmony between man and nature" at Arjuna's Penance. They shook hands five times during the entire period and drank coconut water at the Panch Ratha site where they sat for 15 minutes. PM Modi also gifted President Xi, Nachiarkoil, branched Annam lamp and Thanjavur Painting of dancing Saraswathi. Chinese President Xi Jinping landed in Chennai on Friday afternoon with PM Modi tweeting in Mandarin, Tamil and English to welcome him. This is the third visit of the Chinese president to India since 2014. In 2014, he visited Ahmadabad and in 2016 he visited Goa for the BRICS summit. Xi is accompanied by 90 officials including top Chinese leadership which include Ding Xuexiang who an important aide of President and current General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, Yang Jiechi Director of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission Office, Foreign Minister Wang Yi and He Lifeng, minister in charge of the National Development and Reform Commission. President Xi met eight top Indian officials including External affair minister S Jaishankar, National security adviser Ajit Doval, Foreign security Vijay Gokhale, joint secretary in PMO Gopal Baglay, Indian envoy to China Vikram Misri at the shore temple. The dinner hosted by PM for the visiting leader in the backdrop of historic Shore temple at the Mamallapuram beach had Tamil delicacies both non-vegetarian and vegetarian on the menu. On Saturday morning, they will again spend time together and around 11 am before the delegation-level talks, they will be making address media. Mamallapuram was chosen as the spot for PM Modi himself and process for the informal summit started in June 2019. India had sent its first recce team in June to the town. While history played an important role, the fact that PM Modi is keen to have big summits outside national capital also played the clincher. Since its an informal summit, no joint statement is expected but both sides will issue separate statements in a coordinated manner.

Trade, terror, top focus of day-one of Modi-Xi meet in Mamallapuram

Nepal has completed the preparations to welcome <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-president-xi-one-on-one-talks-lunch-to-sum-up-mamallapuram-second-india-china-informal-summit-today-255371">Chinese President Xi Jinping</a>.

Nepal government has set up welcome gates at various locations around the capital with the flag of Nepal and China docked on the edge of the road as well as the portrait of the President on the poles.

The two-day stop-over visit of the Chinese President is set to begin from October 12.&nbsp;

As per the schedule, Chinese President Jinping will be landing in capital Kathmandu at around 4:30pm.

Xi is set to hold meetings with Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari at Sheetal Niwas on Saturday evening followed by a dinner hosted by her. He will also hold talks with Nepal's Former Prime Minister and Opposition Party Chairman Sher Bahadur Deuba.

Chinese President Xi will be meeting Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" on Sunday morning which will be followed by the signing of agreements.

President Xi is scheduled to depart for China at 1pm on Sunday.

Nepal has completed the preparations to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping. Nepal government has set up welcome gates at various locations around the capital with the flag of Nepal and China docked on the edge of the road as well as the portrait of the President on the poles.

Nepal has completed the preparations to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping. Nepal government has set up welcome gates at various locations around the capital with the flag of Nepal and China docked on the edge of the road as well as the portrait of the President on the poles. The two-day stop-over visit of the Chinese President is set to begin from October 12. As per the schedule, Chinese President Jinping will be landing in capital Kathmandu at around 4:30pm. Xi is set to hold meetings with Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari at Sheetal Niwas on Saturday evening followed by a dinner hosted by her. He will also hold talks with Nepal's Former Prime Minister and Opposition Party Chairman Sher Bahadur Deuba. Chinese President Xi will be meeting Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" on Sunday morning which will be followed by the signing of agreements. President Xi is scheduled to depart for China at 1pm on Sunday.

Nepal prepares to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping

Nepal government has set up welcome gates at various locations around the capital with the flag of Nepal and China docked on the edge of the road as well as the portrait of the President on the poles. The two-day stop-over visit of the Chinese President is set to begin from October 12.

Kathmandu set to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping

Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to arrive in Nepal on Saturday for talks with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-china-to-sign-agreements-during-xis-upcoming-visit-254772">expected to sign a deal</a> expanding a railway link between the Himalayan nation and Tibet, officials said.

Xi will be the first Chinese president to visit Nepal in 22 years and will arrive from India, where he held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-china-ink-3-agreements-during-chinese-fms-visit-248757">Nepal, China ink 3 agreements during Chinese FM's visit</a>

Landlocked Nepal, a natural buffer between India and China, has been trying to lessen its dependence on New Delhi.

The Chinese leader will meet PM Oli on Sunday and the two leaders are expected to sign a slew of deals, including the planned extension of the rail link from remote, mountainous Tibet to Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, officials said.

The link will be part of China's Belt and Road Initiative, Xi's signature project that Nepal joined in 2017.

Rajan Bhattarai, one of Oli's top aides, said a feasibility study of the plan had been conducted by Chinese experts.

"An agreement for the preparation of a detailed project report for the railway link is expected to be signed after the prime minister's meeting with President Xi on Sunday," Bhattarai told Reuters.

The report will contain cost estimates, with financing and construction models to be decided, officials said.

Nepal sees the rail link with China as an alternative to its dependence on India. New Delhi accounts for nearly two-thirds of Nepal's trade and is the sole source of its fuel supply.

A prolonged blockade of its border crossings with India in 2015 and 2016 left Nepal short of fuel and medicine for months.

Asian giants India and China have both sought to woo Nepal and have poured in aid and infrastructure investment.

Beijing has helped build or upgrade highways, airports and power plants in Nepal under the Belt and Road infrastructure drive - a string of ports, railways, roads, bridges and other investments tying China to Europe via central and southern Asia.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to arrive in Nepal on Saturday for talks with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and is expected to sign a deal expanding a railway link between the Himalayan nation and Tibet, officials said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to arrive in Nepal on Saturday for talks with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and is expected to sign a deal expanding a railway link between the Himalayan nation and Tibet, officials said. Xi will be the first Chinese president to visit Nepal in 22 years and will arrive from India, where he held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also read: Nepal, China ink 3 agreements during Chinese FM's visit Landlocked Nepal, a natural buffer between India and China, has been trying to lessen its dependence on New Delhi. The Chinese leader will meet PM Oli on Sunday and the two leaders are expected to sign a slew of deals, including the planned extension of the rail link from remote, mountainous Tibet to Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, officials said. The link will be part of China's Belt and Road Initiative, Xi's signature project that Nepal joined in 2017. Rajan Bhattarai, one of Oli's top aides, said a feasibility study of the plan had been conducted by Chinese experts. "An agreement for the preparation of a detailed project report for the railway link is expected to be signed after the prime minister's meeting with President Xi on Sunday," Bhattarai told Reuters. The report will contain cost estimates, with financing and construction models to be decided, officials said. Nepal sees the rail link with China as an alternative to its dependence on India. New Delhi accounts for nearly two-thirds of Nepal's trade and is the sole source of its fuel supply. A prolonged blockade of its border crossings with India in 2015 and 2016 left Nepal short of fuel and medicine for months. Asian giants India and China have both sought to woo Nepal and have poured in aid and infrastructure investment. Beijing has helped build or upgrade highways, airports and power plants in Nepal under the Belt and Road infrastructure drive - a string of ports, railways, roads, bridges and other investments tying China to Europe via central and southern Asia.

Nepal eyes railway deal with China during Chinese President Xi's visit

India and China agreed to continue the positive momentum as two countries wrapped up the second edition of informal summit in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu with the big takeaway being trade.

India and China agreed to continue the positive momentum as two countries wrapped up the second edition of informal summit in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu with the big takeaway being trade. Both PM Modi and President Xi Jinping agreed that since Wuhan, the strategic communication between the two countries has deepened and both sides agreed that the informal summit would continue. Modi and Xi spent six hours together during 24 hours the Chinese president was in India. PM said, "Wuhan summit had provided new momentum and thrust and Chennai connect will start a new era of cooperation between the two countries". Modi further said that differences will be "prudently managed" so that they don't become disputes and take care of "each other concerns and sensitivities" Chinese President Xi called "informal summit a good idea" and Wuhan informal summit last year ushered in "new age of health and steady development" and "it continues to produce visible progress..by deeper strategic communication and effective practice cooperation and more diverse people to people and cultural exchanges". "It was a right decision to have informal summit" and we can "continue with this form of meeting," he added. Xi said on Friday he had "heart to heart discussion on bilateral relation" with PM Modi like "friends" and Beijing aims "to maintain and grow India-China relation". The Chinese president said he is "overwhelmed" by India's hospitality and "really feel the sincere welcome" which will be a "memorable experience". Terror was the other big focus. " Both Leaders are concerned that terrorism continues to pose a common threat" and "As countries that are large and diverse, they recognized the importance of continuing to make joint efforts to ensure that the international community strengthens the framework against training, financing and supporting terrorist groups throughout the world and on a non-discriminatory basis," said a press release issued by India stated. The revocation of special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir was neither raised nor discussed by either side. Modi called for balanced trade pact on Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the 16-member free trade agreement to which the Chinese President retort was ''New Delhi's concerns will be taken care of''. As part of Confidence Building Measures (CBMs), India's defence minister will be soon going to China. As part of people to people contact, two leaders agreed on the establishment of sister-state relations between Tamil Nadu and Fujian Province, exploring the possibility of establishing an academy to study links between Mahabalipuram and Fujian province. Both countries celebrate 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year and will organise 70 activities including a conference on a ship voyage that will trace the historical connection between the two civilizations. The third informal summit will take place in China.

Wuhan provided fresh momentum, Chennai connect will herald a new era of cooperation between India and China: PM Modi  

Bringing the two-day<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-highlights-of-india-china-2nd-informal-summit-in-mamallapuram-chennai-255483"> India-China informal summit</a> to an end, Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Delhi from the airport here on Saturday.

The Chinese President had left earlier to embark on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-president-xi-jinping-wraps-up-chennai-visit-leaves-for-nepal-255459">second leg of his two-state visit</a> in the Asian neighbourhood. Xi had departed for Nepal from India shortly before the Prime Minister`s journey back to the national capital.

The Mamallapuram meeting was held following the inaugural summit between the two leaders in Wuhan from April 27 to 28 last year.

The two leaders exchanged views on a wide-ranging area of bilateral relations, including trade, people-to-people exchanges, countering terrorism, to name a few.

The Prime Minister also accepted President`s Xi`s invite for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-informal-summit-was-a-good-idea-will-continue-to-have-such-meetings-xi-jinping-255443">third informal summit in China</a>, according to Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.

Modi and Xi held one-on-one interactions that lasted for about six hours during the summit in the historic coastal city of Mamallapuram.

During delegation-level talks on Saturday, Prime Minister Modi said that the `Chennai Connect` is the start of a new era in India-China relations.

On the first day, the close ties shared between the two leaders shone through, as Modi took Xi on a guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Arjuna`s Penance, Krishna`s Butter Ball, Pancha Rathas and the Shore Temple.&nbsp;

A veshti-wearing Modi received Xi on Friday afternoon in Mamallapuram, which is famed for its temples and architecture dating back to the Pallava Dynasty.

The visiting dignitary also relished a variety of Indian cuisine during the dinner hosted by Modi in his honour on Friday. The two leaders met for over two hours over dinner.&nbsp;

Bringing the two-day India-China informal summit to an end, Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Delhi from the airport here on Saturday. The Chinese President had left earlier to embark on the second leg of his two-state visit in the Asian neighbourhood.

Bringing the two-day India-China informal summit to an end, Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Delhi from the airport here on Saturday. The Chinese President had left earlier to embark on the second leg of his two-state visit in the Asian neighbourhood. Xi had departed for Nepal from India shortly before the Prime Minister`s journey back to the national capital. The Mamallapuram meeting was held following the inaugural summit between the two leaders in Wuhan from April 27 to 28 last year. The two leaders exchanged views on a wide-ranging area of bilateral relations, including trade, people-to-people exchanges, countering terrorism, to name a few. The Prime Minister also accepted President`s Xi`s invite for the third informal summit in China, according to Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale. Modi and Xi held one-on-one interactions that lasted for about six hours during the summit in the historic coastal city of Mamallapuram. During delegation-level talks on Saturday, Prime Minister Modi said that the `Chennai Connect` is the start of a new era in India-China relations. On the first day, the close ties shared between the two leaders shone through, as Modi took Xi on a guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Arjuna`s Penance, Krishna`s Butter Ball, Pancha Rathas and the Shore Temple. A veshti-wearing Modi received Xi on Friday afternoon in Mamallapuram, which is famed for its temples and architecture dating back to the Pallava Dynasty. The visiting dignitary also relished a variety of Indian cuisine during the dinner hosted by Modi in his honour on Friday. The two leaders met for over two hours over dinner.

Chennai: Culminating India-China informal summit, PM Modi leaves for Delhi

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