Foreign Ministry Spokesman Kong Quan said yesterday that the consultations and cooperation between China and India against terrorism will promote understanding and trust, which is in the interests of both countries.
In New Delhi yesterday, China and India held their first meeting on counter-terrorism within the dialogue mechanism initiated last January during Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji's visit to India.
The two sides exchanged views on international counter-terrorism, including developments in the region, Nirupama Rao -- a spokeswoman of India's External Affairs Ministry -- told the media in her daily press briefing.
Both sides also exchanged views on cooperation at the United Nations and possible bilateral cooperation.
They agreed that the first meeting of the dialogue mechanism was useful in enhancing mutual understanding. It was decided to hold the next round of the dialogue in Beijing early next year.
Talking about Chinese Vice-President Hu Jintao's visit to the United States later this month, the spokesman said anti-terrorism efforts will be discussed during the visit.
While many countries have joined hands in the fight against terrorism, there have also been differences in opinions on what terrorism is and how to combat it.
China hopes that the international community will reach consensus on such issues, Kong said at a regular press briefing.
Turning to the Middle East, Kong said China condemns Israel for its armed occupation of Palestine controlled areas and causing serious losses.
He also said China condemns any kind of violence targeting civilians.
China has repeatedly called for Israel and Palestine to resolve their disputes peacefully through political talks, Kong said.
(China Daily April 24, 2002)
