Following situation in J&K 'very closely', says Chinese FM

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Beijing is 'very closely' following the Indo-Pak tensions over Kashmir and its 'ramifications' and asked New Delhi to play a 'constructive role' for regional peace and stability.

New Delhi:Speaking at the India-China media forum after his bilateral meet with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that it is following the situation in Jammu and Kashmir 'very closely'.

Citing recent tensions between India and Pakistan post the Modi government's decision to revoke special status to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, the Chinese Foreign Minister also claimed that both countries have a major role to play for peace and stability in the region.

"When it comes to the recent tensions between India and Pakistan and the possible ramifications, we follow these developments very closely. We hope that India would also play a constructive role for the regional peace and stability," he said.

Both leaders had a pretty successful bilateral engagement as they emphasised on expanding bilateral cooperation. Modalities of the upcoming informal summit in India between President Xi and PM Modi were also discussed.

Hailing India-China relations, Jaishankar also said that it is important to ensure that any bilateral differences should not become disputes. He claimed that the relation between India and China has moved in a positive direction after the Wuhan informal summit as it has opened a new world of convergence. He also informed that the Chinese side wants to expand the yearly Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Both countries signed 4 MoUs in cultural exchanges, Medicine, International sports events, and Museum management.

Lauding the increase in bilateral trade, Jaishankar also pointed towards the trade deficit which is a matter of worry for India, to which his Chinese counterpart said, "We are of the view that we need to deepen our cooperation. We stand ready to provide facilities to Indian exports to China."

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