India and China not rivals but partners: Former Chinese envoy

BEIJING: Noting that the border issue between India and China was a "moment" in the 2000 year history of friendly exchange, a former Chinese Ambassador to New Delhi said both countries were not rivals but partners.

"The border issue between the two countries was a moment in the 200 year long history of friendly exchange among them," a statement released by Indian think tank ICRIER, that had organised a two-day research dialogue here, quoted Yuanying Pei as saying.

He emphasised that "China and India were not rivals but partners and cooperation between them was bound to promote world peace and prosperity."

The theme of the dialogue was 'Emerging Economy Perpectives and Priorities in the New Multi-polar World'.