Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar holds talks with China's General Chang Wanquan

During his five-day China visit Defence Manohar Parrikar on 18 April held bilateral talks with his Chinese counterpart General Chang Wanquan.

Parrikar asserted that India attaches the highest priority to its relationship with China and was looking forward to expand military ties between the two countries. The Minister tweeted, "Bilateral meeting with Gen Chang Wanquan, Min of National Defence & State Councillor of People's Republic of China."

Upon his arrival, Parrikar - accompanied by General Chang - was given a grand welcome at the sprawling headquarters of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in Beijing, west of Tiananmen Square. "At the welcome ceremony in Beijing today with Gen Chang Wanquan, Minister of National Defence and State Councillor of PRC," he tweeted. Parrikar and Chang inspected a guard of honour before heading for talks.

Parrikar arrived in Shanghai on 17 April, accompanied by senior officials from the Army and Navy besides the Defence Ministry.

He addressed the Indian community in Shanghai and assured them that the Indian government was committed to securing their interests.

Parrikar will also meet top Chinese military officials during his visit. The incidents of incursions, implementation of an agreement to reduce tensions between border patrols and Sino-India strategic concerns are among the issues expected to be discussed during the talks.

Parrikar will also call on Chinese Premier Li Keqiang. He is also set to visit China's recently integrated western command military headquarters, which has jurisdiction over border with India.

Former Defence Minister AK Antony visited China in 2013.

--ANI