New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BRICS leaders on Saturday endorsed a joint declaration calling for coordinated action against those who provide support and safe haven to terrorists, while stressing the need to curb terror financing.
The declaration was adopted unanimously despite differences between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Iran over the West Asia crisis, marking a diplomatic success for India as host of the summit. A dinner was also hosted for the visiting leaders and delegates.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, however, did not attend the dinner hosted by Modi for leaders and representatives of participating countries and international organisations. Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan had also left for the UAE after attending the summit and was not present at the dinner.
The reason for Xi’s absence was not officially disclosed. According to sources cited in the report, the Chinese president returned to his hotel to rest.
Modi, Xi stress need for peaceful border
Earlier, during his meeting with Xi, Modi reiterated that maintaining peace and tranquillity along the India-China border was essential for improving bilateral relations.
The Prime Minister said the two countries should base their relationship on three principles — mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests.
Both leaders agreed that India-China ties should be viewed from a strategic and long-term perspective and that differences should not be allowed to turn into disputes.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to finding a rational and mutually acceptable solution to the boundary issue, keeping in mind the long-term interests of the people of both countries.
