China, India defense chiefs' meeting positive and constructive

The Chinese military looks forward to "a harmonious dance between the Chinese dragon and the Indian elephant", a defense spokesman said on Thursday.

Wu Qian, spokesman for the Chinese Defense Ministry, made the remarks in response to the positive comments made by Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh during his meeting with the Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun in Laos on Nov 20.

According to the Indian Defense Ministry's website, Singh said during the meeting that a friendly relationship between India and China, the two most populous countries, will have a positive impact on global peace and prosperity, and the two countries should focus on cooperation rather than conflict.

Wu said the meeting between the Chinese and Indian defense chiefs was positive and constructive.

"The two sides agreed to deliver on the important consensus reached by the two state leaders and promote the stable development of the bilateral military relationship," he said.

The two defense ministers agreed to strictly abide by the recent common understanding reached by the two sides and make efforts to deescalate tensions in the border areas, said the spokesman.

In addition, both sides agreed to focus on enhancing mutual trust and conduct more exchanges and interactions between the two militaries, Wu said.

"We hope the two sides can seize the opportunity and the good momentum to make new progress in the military-to-military relationship," he said.

"We also look forward to a harmonious dance between the Chinese dragon and the Indian elephant with concerted steps."