During the 4th India-China Annual Defense Dialogue (ADD), which was held on Friday in New Delhi "both sides shared global and security perception" in a cordial atmosphere.
According to a statement by the Ministry of Defense, the talk was "conducted in an atmosphere of cordiality and both sides were frank and constructive in their approach during the deliberations."
During the talk, it was noted that existing confidence-building measures on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between both countries were successful in maintaining peace and tranquility and such measures would continue to be implemented.
Both sides agreed that the process of dialogue and communication should be strengthened at various levels to ensure stability in the border areas.
The statement added that both the sides shared regional and global security perceptions and agreed that enhancement of defense exchanges between their armed forces would contribute to better understanding and mutual trust and confidence-building.
It was also noted that the strengthening of the institutional mechanism for border discussions, which is expected to be operationalized soon through the establishment of a working level mechanism, would improve communications on important border related issues.
Expressing his satisfaction over the success of the talk, India's Defense Minister A.K. Antony told the Chinese delegation that both sides should work towards increasing mutual trust and confidence, as this was for the benefit of both countries.
"Such high level exchanges between the defense establishments of both sides would further nurture the process of dialogue," the statement quoted the Minister as saying.
The ADD was established under the provisions of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for "Exchanges and Cooperation in the field of Defense", signed between both countries in May, 2006.
The Chinese delegation, lead by Gen. Ma Xiaotian, Deputy Chief of General Staff, PLA, also called on the Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Nirmal Verma. The Indian side was led by the Defense Secretary, Shashi Kant Sharma.
