China on Tuesday held a ceremony for the publication of a book containing 25 important documents on China-India relations since the two countries established diplomatic ties 56 years ago.

 

Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing and Indian Ambassador to China Nalin Surie attended the ceremony, which was held at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse.

 

Li said China-India relationship has entered a new stage of development since the two countries declared last year to form a strategic and cooperative partnership for peace and prosperity.

 

China-India relations have become more mature, he said.

 

"China and India, with similar national conditions and respective strength, share extensive common interests and a great potential for cooperation," Li said.

 

He noted that China and India have joined their hands in pursuit of a common development to benefit both peoples, who account for two fifths of the world population. Such cooperation is of significance for the peace, stability and development in Asia and the world at large.

 

Expressing his thanks to China for publishing the book, Surie hoped that a more comprehensive book including all important documents on India-China relations since India declared independence could be published later this year.

 

He also praised India-China relationship, saying it has undergone "sustained growth and diversification."

 

(Xinhua News Agency March 29, 2006)