New Delhi, Nov 24: Reflecting growing ties, front-ranking Chinese leader Jia Qinglin today met Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and discussed a host of issues including the recent meeting of the special representatives of the two sides on the boundary problem and the prospects of a next round. During their 30-minute meeting, the two leaders discussed bilateral relations, particularly the "positive developments" since Vajpayee's visit to China in June this year, External Affairs Ministry spokesman told reporters.
Jia had a meeting with Lok Sabha Speaker Manohar Joshi at parliament house yesterday during which he expressed China's opposition to terrorism in all its forms.
The Chinese leader also offered condolences to members of the bereaved families of martyrs who died protecting the temple of democracy, parliament, during the of the December13, 2001 terror attack on it.
Joshi hoped that current visit would further consolidate the friendship and cooperation between the two countries. He also congratulated China for having achieved a milestone in its space development programme by sending the first manned space flight.
During his talks with Vajpayee, they discussed trade which have made dramatic increases in the last few months. At this rate, it was felt that the target of USD 10 billion dollars was within hand, the spokesman said.
Bureau Report