In the shared vision document today, both sides backed the negotiations between the two Special Representatives, pending which they agreed to maintain “peace and tranquillity” along the border. “The two sides reiterate their determination to seek a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution to the boundary and to build a boundary of peace and friendship on the basis of the agreement on political parameters and guiding principles,” stated the vision document.

The Engagement Map

• India and China agree to continue high-level exchange. Beijing invites President Pratibha Patil while India invites Chairman of the Chinese National Peoples Congress to visit India in 2008.

• Foreign Ministers of both countries to visit this year. Pranab Mukherjee in the first half of 2008 while Yang Jiechi in the second half.

• India to host joint military exercises this year. Defence dialogue also to be held at the level of Defence Secretary this year.

• Bilateral trade target revised to $60 billion by 2010. Earlier target was $40 billion, but both countries have already touched $38 billion, according to Chinese statistics.

• Joint business leaders forum to be set up.

• MoU between Planning Commission and the Chinese National Development Reforms Commission, along with nine other pacts signed on Moday.