There is a perceptible feeling within the Indian policy and academic community about the positive perception of India-China relations underscored by a new spirit of cooperation and engagement on the 60th anniversary of
establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. This change is paradoxical coming after a turbulent 2009 when bilateral relations between the two countries touched the nadir on account of negative media reports of border tensions. This assessment is based on extensive interactions with leading think-tanks in Beijing at the end of March 2010 by a group of senior Chinese experts under the aegis of the Institutute of Peace and
Conflict Studies, India and the negative impact of media and think-tanks which tended to exacerbate tensions. Coming in the above backdrop the visit provided a refreshing opportunity to engage the Chinese strategic think-tank community on a host of bilateral and regional issues. The visit is part of a project that aims to develop better
understanding and greater cooperation between India and China for a more sustainable relationship that would help shape the Asian destiny over the coming years. Being a Track II process the exchanges were marked by free and candid expression of views by all participants. The main focus of the visit was to discuss confidence building measures (CBMs) in diverse fields ranging from, strategic relations, maintaining peace and stability along the
borders, promoting strategic stability through CBM’s in the nuclear field, enhancing antiterrorism cooperation, promoting maritime security and facilitating media and think tank interaction. The range of CBM’s discussed reflected the desire to move beyond the clichés of hostility and confrontation premised in the normal discourseon India-China relations to a level that promotes better understanding and more cooperative relationship.