Q: What is your comment on the second round of China-India security dialogue concluded last week? Did the Chinese side raise the Karmapa issue to the Indian side?

A: The second round of China-India security dialogue was held in New Delhi on February 8th. This is the first round of security dialogue between the two countries at a higher level since the restoration and improvement of bilateral relations. The dialogue was conducted in a candid and friendly atmosphere. Proceeding from the common aspiration of improving bilateral relations, the two sides had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on major issues of mutual concern, and reached consensus on strengthening coordination and cooperation on the international and regional arena. Both sides believed that the dialogue was conducive in enhancing the mutual understanding and trust and should continue.

Concerning the issue of Karmapa, the Chinese side asked the Indian side to abide its commitment and expressed its concern over the heresay that the Indian government had granted Karmapa refuge status, and demanded clarification from the Indian side. The Indian side indicated that they understood China?s position on this issue and that their position remained unchanged.