BEIJING: Defence minister A K Antony on Friday said India and China would conduct joint military exercises in October while brushing aside a top Chinese People's Liberation Army general's statement warning New Delhi against provoking "trouble" in border areas.
"My discussions were with the official people," Antony told journalists. He was responding to questions on Maj Gen Luo Yuan's statement warning India not to "stir up" trouble by increasing military deployment in border areas.
Antony's response suggested the Chinese leadership may have distanced themselves from Maj Gen Luo's comments hours before he landed in Beijing.
The move to resume joint military exercises highlights improvement in ties between the two countries. India had suspended military exchanges in 2009 after China refused to host the head of Indian Army's J&K-based northern command.
Antony, who had earlier met Chinese premier Li Keqiang and defence minister Chang Wankuan, said the two countries have agreed to go a step further and undertake "enhanced professional exchanges" between their navies and air forces.
He said the military relationship was an important part of the overall ties between the two countries. "This is also what was conveyed to him by the Chinese leaders.''
The defense minister said the recent Chinese incursion at Depsang was being discussed in detail for quite some time. "Outcome is very important. Everything will be discussed.''
Antony said he was satisfied with his discussions with the Chinese leadership so far. "The message is very clear. The PM again reiterated that the new leadership in China gives much importance to strengthening and expanding the relations with India,'' he said.
Officials said the two countries had further agreed that strategic communication and improved coordination among border guards of the two countries are required for building trust and understanding.
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AK Antony brushes aside Chinese generals anti-India tirade - The Times of India