The two sides exchanged views on Sino-Indian relations and regional issues of common interest.

On his first visit to China, the Indian guest also met Guo Boxiong, vice-chairman of the Chinese Central Military Commission. The Chinese military official noted that China and India have implemented conventions on border issues and said they have maintained stability in their common border area.

Fernandes said he hoped his visit would create an appropriate atmosphere for the early settlement of issues and differences between the two countries.

The Indian defence minister also held talks with Chinese Defence Minister Cao Gangchuan.

Cao said the armed forces of China and India have enhanced their mutual trust and understanding and maintained stability in the border area.

He said the people of the two neighboring countries live in harmony, and their exchanges and cooperation in various fields have developed smoothly.

The two countries share a wide range of interests in the world and have identical or similar views on many international issues, said Cao, who is also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor.

The two nations have established and developed a constructive and cooperative friendship on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Co-existence.

China is willing to work with India for regional peace and stability, Cao said. The Chinese military is willing to conduct further exchanges for a long-term stable and friendly cooperative relationship based on mutual trust, added Cao.

(China Daily April 22, 2003)