China, India to expand talks on maritime security

China and India are seeking to expand areas of bilateral dialogue, as senior officials from both countries meet in New Delhi on Wednesday for the first time this year. Indian newspaper The Hindu reported that the two countries are satisfied with the outcome of their interaction on regional issues, and are now keen to extend into new areas.

The meeting is between Chinese State Counsellor Dai Bingguo and Indian National Security Adviser Shiv Shankar Menon. Both are attending the third meeting between the security advisers of the BRICS countries. The paper quotes an Indian official saying the talks on maritime security comes at a time when China is embroiled in disputes over territorial and maritime sovereignty in South China Sea. Exchanges on this issue will also include shipping costs and transportation, on which both countries feel the playing field is tilted against emerging countries.