Date:10/01/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/01/10/stories/2006011004721200.htm

International - India & World

India, China hold dialogue

P. S. Suryanarayana

SINGAPORE: Top officials of India and China began the second round of strategic dialogue in Beijing on Monday. While the Chinese side was led by Vice-Foreign Minister Wu Dawei , Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran headed the Indian delegation.

India's Ambassador to China Nalin Surie and Joint Secretary (East Asia) Ashok Kantha participated in the talks, expected to conclude on Tuesday. Mr. Saran called on Chinese State Councillor Tang Jiaxuan.

While authoritative details of the dialogue were not immediately available, these talks have acquired much importance following last year's agreement between the two countries to fashion a Strategic and Cooperative Partnership for Peace and Prosperity.