Beijing/New Delhi, Dec 12 (NationPress) India and China recently engaged in discussions in Beijing over the course of two days, where both nations reviewed the planned exchanges and activities for the upcoming year. New Delhi underscored the importance of swiftly addressing pending issues related to export control, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday.

Sujit Ghosh, the Joint Secretary (East Asia), was in Beijing from December 11-12, during which he met with China's Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong and engaged in talks with the Director General of the Department of Asian Affairs at the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The MEA issued a statement following the visit, noting, "The discussions were constructive and future-oriented. Both parties recognized the significance of the strategic guidance provided by the leaders of each country and positively assessed the progress in stabilizing and enhancing bilateral relations, focusing on people-centric engagements."

During the discussions, the sides reviewed the exchanges and activities slated for the next year. The Indian delegation emphasized the necessity for a prompt resolution of unresolved issues regarding export control. Additionally, regional and global developments of mutual interest were briefly addressed.

While in Beijing, the MEA Joint Secretary also met with the Director General (Asian Affairs) of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce to discuss bilateral trade and commercial matters.

Earlier this week, India expressed its expectation for Chinese authorities to guarantee that Indian nationals transiting through Chinese airports would not face selective targeting, arbitrary detention, or harassment.

This strong statement followed the arbitrary detention of an Indian national from Arunachal Pradesh at Shanghai International Airport last month, which New Delhi called a clear violation of international norms and bilateral agreements.

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the MEA, stated during a media briefing in New Delhi on Monday, "We expect Chinese authorities to assure that Indian citizens transiting through their airports will not face selective targeting or arbitrary detention, and that international air travel regulations will be respected by China."

He also advised Indian citizens to exercise caution while traveling to or transiting through China.

Prema Wangjom Thongdok, an Indian from Arunachal Pradesh, reported being detained for 18 hours by Chinese immigration officials during what was intended to be a brief three-hour layover while traveling from London to Japan on November 21.