India,China to increase cooperation in defence, economy

Chengdu, China, Oct 25 (UNI) India and China today agreed to increase cooperation in defence and strengthen economic ties besides striving to reach an agreement on border issue.

External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee discussed bilateral, regional and international issues with his Chinese counterpart Yang Ji Chi here today.

Mr Mukherjee told mediapersons that India-China border talks, bilateral trade, defence and economy and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's upcoming Chinese visit was discussed during the meeting.

Congress chairperson Sonia Gandhi is also on visit to China from today.

Mr Mukherjee said both the countries were cooperating in the field of economy and defence. Revenue generated from the trade between the two countries has increased by billion of dollars in the past 15 years. The goal of revenue generation for this year's trade is expected to reach 350 billion dollars, he said.

The minister informed that progressive eleven round border talks have been initiated by India and China.

Both the nations have discussed about joint security exercise in the field of defence. More joint security exercises were required required to counter terrorism, he noted.

Current situation in Myanmar was discussed and both the countries suggested that efforts should be made to establish peace and improve political environment in the country.

UNI