Acknowledging international cooperation was vital to defeat terrorism and non-traditional menace sponsored by religious fundamentalism, India and China pledged to work together to counter terrorism. The decision was made at the 2nd Annual Defence Dialogue (ADD) held here on Monday.
Participating in the daylong deliberations, the Chinese delegation headed by Lt. General Ma Xiaotian, Deputy Chief of General Staff, People’s Liberation Army (PLA), said that India-China relations are no longer a zero-sum relationship and that growing defence cooperation enhanced mutual trust and confidence.
The Chinese leader condemned terrorism and the recent attacks in Mumbai and conveyed condolences for the victims.
The Indian side led by Defence Secretary Vijay Singh appreciated China's offer of support in war against terrorism. He said that the two joint exercises on counter-terrorism in each other’s soil greatly contributed to better understanding.
Both leaders agreed that the relationship between the two countries has moved beyond bilateralism and has significance for the stability and growth of the world at large.
The two sides also shared views on global and regional security including piracy off the coast of Somalia. The Chinese side shared their experience in areas like disaster relief and the successful conduct of the Beijing Olympics mega sports event. Both sides also agreed to pursue annual visits, deputing observers to witness exercises and evaluate defence cooperation.
The Chinese leader, who arrived in India on Dec 10th, also witnessed the Joint India-China Training Exercises in Belgaum on Dec 11th and 12th.
The Annual Defence Dialogue is an important mechanism for holding bilateral talks on defence cooperation between India and China. It also provides a forum for exchange of views on regional and security issues between the two countries. The 1st Annual Defence Dialogue was held in Beijing in November 2007.
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