Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v1.c4.s2.157

v1.c4.s2.157

Finally, an important trend is the growing cooperation between India and China in regional and global forums. A milestone in this regard was the joint statement issued on the occasion of Premier Wen Jiabao’s visit to India in April 2005 which established a Strategic and Cooperative Partnership for Peace and Prosperity, indicating that both sides would regard their relations not merely from a bilateral perspective, but from a larger global strategic perspective. On issues concerning international trade, regional security, maritime security, environmental problems and so on, there is greater cooperation and coordination between India and China. The growing economic strength of China and India has increased their sense of responsibility in international affairs. It has also led to greater interest globally in the relationship between the two countries.