Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, emphasized on Wednesday that while differences between India and China are natural given their proximity, the key lies in managing and resolving these disagreements effectively.

Speaking at an event hosted by the Merchant Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Kolkata, Xu highlighted the importance of smooth cooperation between the two nations across various sectors, including politics, business, and education. He also expressed hope that recent efforts toward disengagement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) would set the stage for stable bilateral relations.

Following the completion of the disengagement process at Depsang and Demchok in eastern Ladakh, the envoy expressed optimism about the future. “I hope our bilateral relations will continue without interruptions or restrictions caused by specific disagreements,” he said.

Reflecting on the recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in Russia, Xu emphasized that their discussions had laid down a guiding framework for the future. “The meeting has provided an important example of how to handle differences, showing us the way forward in resolving issues,” he added.

The envoy also hinted at resuming joint patrols along the disengaged areas at the LAC.

Regarding trade ties, Xu stressed the need for bilateral cooperation to grow across all domains. “I look forward to smooth cooperation between our two countries—not just in politics but also in business, education, and science,” he said.

Xu also addressed the topic of direct flights between the two nations, which had been suspended. “Resuming direct flights would save time and money for everyone. I hope to fly back to Beijing directly soon, just like before 2020,” he said.

This was Xu Feihong’s first visit to Kolkata, where he extended Diwali greetings to the people of India.

(Inputs from ANI)