The Chinese government is willing to work with India to counter terrorism, MA Zhanwu, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Kolkata, has said.
However, it will be some time before the two countries “understand” and “trust” each other to embark on joint research and development in defence segments, he feels.
“We (the countries) are working together on counter terrorism (activities), and there is a lot we can do together,” he told reporters here on the sidelines of an interactive session organised by the Calcutta Chamber of Commerce.
According to Zhanwu, China is not planning to block imports from India. In fact, the Chinese pharmaceutical sector is looking at imports.
“There is a huge demand. And we are working with India on information technology and other new developments like robotics,” he said. Zhanwu added that Chinese telecom major Huwaei has already invested in setting up a research centre in Bengaluru — one of the company’s largest outside its home country.
He said China is looking to work towards removing trade barriers.
One Belt, One Road Zhanwu further expressed hope that Indian decision-makers will be present as the One Belt, One Road (OBOR) conference expected to take place in Beijing in 2019.
OBOR connects China with Europe and Africa via India and Pakistan.
India already boycotted a two-day Belt and Road Forum held earlier this month, on sovereignty concerns.