Hindi Chini bhai-bhai. This was the message from Wang Dong Hua, consulate general of the People's Republic of China (PRC), on Sunday morning January 3, 2010.

Speaking at a function organized by the India-China Friendship Association, Karnataka, at Gandhi Bhavan, Hua said: "China considers the rise of India as an opportunity, not a threat. People of the two countries are like brothers and sisters. A traditional friendship has been maintained and the relation has gained momentum and reached new heights."

Hua cited the foreign trade volume between the two countries to prove his point. In 2008-09, the trade was worth 51.7 billion US Dollars. The amount is 24% lower than that of the previous year thanks to the global recession, but it is substantial nonetheless, he said.

When asked about the territory issue between the neighbours, Hua said: "We have a strong consensus on the issue. It should not be an obstacle... India and China should work closer in the future. Since both of them have relative advantages, there is a great potential to expand trade. Cooperation should prevail not only for the benefit of the people of the two countries but also for the happiness of the world...".

To increase cooperation between the countries, flights to China will be introduced from Bangalore. Chinese Airlines will soon start services from Bengaluru International Airport; dates are yet to be confirmed. However, it might be some time before a Chinese consulate is set up at Bangalore.

Source: TNN