Premier of the State Council of China calls on President

New Delhi, May 21: Li Keqiang, Premier of the State Council of People’s Republic of China called on President Pranab Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (May 21, 2013).

The President expressed happiness over the fact that India was the first country Premier Li was visiting after assuming office. He said it reflects the importance attached to India-China relations by the Premier.

The President said the India-China relationship is one of the most important in 21st century. Our vision for India-China relations is of a truly good neighbourly relationship that is based on a high degree of trust and understanding with a strong intersection of common interests. He said the two countries should be sensitive to each other’s concerns and there is need to build trust as well as expand shared interests. The President also said that the trans-border rivers should unite rather than divide the two people.

Mr. Li Keqiang warmly reciprocated the President’s words and assured the President that China sees India as a strategic partner and believes there is great potential for improved bilateral relations. It would do nothing to harm India’s interests.