Letter.

Letter Published in The National UAE on 14Oct 19 Modi-Xi summit key to bringing India and China closer I write to you in reference to your article India and China seek ‘new era’ in ties after leaders meet (October 12): how India and China manage their relations with each other is of vital significance to peace, stability and prosperity for Asia and the world. This is why informal summits like the one being held between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in the southern Indian town of Mamallapuram is important. These informal summits do not necessarily put pressure on either government to produce outcomes in the form of agreements or deals, but they do provide an opportunity for leaders to hold frank discussions with each other.Keeping in mind China’s close relationship with Pakistan, Mr Modi will use the ongoing summit to improve bilateral trade and impress upon Mr Xi the importance of tackling terrorism. Since coming to power in 2014, Mr Modi has focused on diplomacy with all nations, including China, which can only be good for India. I am sure both leaders will come away from Mamallapuram filled with optimism.K Ragavan, Bengaluru