The Hindu : National : Indian, Chinese troops exchange pleasantries

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Wednesday, Feb 09, 2005

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Indian, Chinese troops exchange pleasantries

By Our Staff Reporter

JAMMU, FEB. 8. As part of confidence-building measures between India and China, a "spring festival border personnel meeting" was held on Sunday nearthe Ladakh region of the State.

The meet, described as a "grand success", was meant to encourage friendly ties between soldiers of the two countries.

Indian and Chinese troops met in the Chinese-controlled territory situated opposite the Chushul on the Sino-Indian border in the Leh sector of Ladakh region. The Udhampur-based Northern Command spokesman, Col. R.K. Sen told The Hindu here today that the meeting was part of confidence-building measures between the two countries.

"Such meets are held four times a year alternately in both countries." In November 2004, Indian and Chinese troops also played a volleyball match in the same area to improve relations.

The meeting started with a ceremonial welcome accorded to the Indian military delegation led by Brigadier Deepak Khurana. The national anthems of both countries were sung. Senior Colonel Awang Fauji led the Chinese side.

In his welcome address to the Indian delegation, Col. Dauji said the ongoing confidence-building measures were effective and fruitful.

Acultural programme was organised for the visiting delegation.

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