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Basic framework of India-China border talks "within next two-three rounds"

Staff Reporter

Two sides working closely, making progress: Dai Bingguo; next round to be held in China

— PHOTO: PTI

CLOSE RAPPORT: National Security Adviser M.K. Narayanan and Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister Dai Bingguo before the discussion on border issue at Kumarakom in Kerala on Sunday. — PHOTO: PTI

KOTTAYAM: The second phase of the seventh round of India-China border talks began at Kumarakom near here on Sunday on a positive note, with both sides confident of giving a final shape to the basic frame work for settlement in the near future.

Briefing the media before the talks began here on Sunday, National Security Adviser M.K. Naryanan said he hoped to wrap up the basic framework "within the next two or three rounds." The Chinese Special Representative Dai Bingguo, who joined him a short while later, said he expected the talks to conclude "as early as possible."

The Indian Ambassador to China, Nalin Suri and his Chinese counterpart Sun Yu Xui were also present during the briefing. The 21-member contingent, consisting of 11 Chinese members and 10 Indians, arrived here from Kochi by 12.30 p.m. After the traditional welcome, the two delegations were presented with a brief display of Kalaripayattu, the traditional Kerala martial art.

The first round of talks, which began by 3 p.m., was over by 5 p.m. The delegations had their dinner in a houseboat on the Vebanad Lake. A brief recital of Kathakali awaited them on their return.

The two sides would have their second round of talks at Kumarakom on Monday morning, after which they would go to Kochi.

Optimism expressed

Our Correspondent writes from Nedumbassery:

The Indian and Chinese delegations, which would hold talks on the border issue, arrived here at the Cochin International Airport on Sunday morning. The group came by a special flight at 10.15 a.m. In a brief interaction with the media outside the domestic terminal, Mr. Narayanan expressed optimism and satisfaction at the discussions. He said a three-hour-long fruitful discussion was held between the two sides in New Delhi on Saturday.

Asked whether the discussions at Kumarakom would produce a concrete result, Mr. Narayanan said it would need at least two more rounds of discussions. He further added that the next round of talks would be held in China.

Airing similar views, Mr. Binguuo said the two sides were working together closely and making progress. Protocol Officer P. S. Sreekumar, Additional DGP V. R. Rajeevan, DIG Ernakulam Range K. Padmakumar and Airport Director A. C. K. Nair were among those who were present at the airport to receive the delegations.

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