China positive to establishing military hotline with India

China reacted positively toward setting up a military hotline with India on border security, said Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan on Monday.

Chang made the remarks when holding talks with his Indian counterpart Manohar Parrikar in Beijing.

Chang spoke highly of the healthy and stable development of China-India relations in recent years.

He called on the two sides to do a good job in implementing the consensus reached by leaders of the two countries, enhance strategic communication, so as to safeguard common interests.

He also suggested the two sides strengthen defense exchanges and jointly safeguard peace and tranquility of the border area.

Parrikar said India places great importance to developing relations with China and hopes to beef up bilateral exchanges and cooperation in all sectors.

India hopes that the development of bilateral ties will not be affected by other factors including the third party, he said, calling on both sides to cement the sound momentum of the development of bilateral relations as well as military relations.

Vice chairman of China's Central Military Commission Fan Changlong met with Parrikar on Monday afternoon.

Fan said China regards bilateral ties from a strategic and long-term perspective and is willing to strengthen military-to-military cooperation to contribute more to peace, stability and prosperity of two countries.

Parrikar said India stands ready to work with China to maintain the stability of the border and fight against terrorism. Endi