Beijing, Nov 23: Continuing the positive momentum in Sino-Indian relations, the chairman of China's top advisory body, Jia Qinglin today left for New Delhi to hold talks with senior Indian leadership on a range of issues and enhance mutual trust. Jia, ranked number four in the hierarchy of the ruling Communist Party leadership, would be the senior-most Chinese leader to visit India after the sweeping leadership change here in March this year.

Jia is the chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Congress (CPPCC), which has an advisory role in the Chinese political system. Apart from India, Jia would also visit Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan during the first major visit undertaken by a senior Chinese leader who is also member of the elite standing committee of the politburo of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

Jia, who is visiting India at the invitation of Vice President and chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, would also have meetings with Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Bureau Report