A good beginning is half-done !! As PM Modi raised "Cross-border terrorism as a priority .... in the context of SCO ; China extends support" to fight the scourge !!

"Cross-border terrorism was mentioned by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a priority. This is something that impacts both India and China and it is important, therefore, that we extend understanding and support to each other as both of us combat this scourge,"  - said foreign secretary Vikram Misri

Briefing reporters, he also said: "We have received the understanding and cooperation of China as we have dealt with the issue of cross-border terrorism in the context of the ongoing SCO summit". 

This is considered a crucial stage of beginning in parleys in taking India-China relations forward.

PM, Xi discussed cross-border terror, China extended support to India 

The Foreign Secretary also said - "The issue was discussed. It was raised by the Prime Minister (Modi). He outlined his understanding very crisply and specifically. 

He outlined the fact that this is the scourge that India and China are both victims of. He asked for China's support, and the Chinese side has extended support". 

During the briefing, Misri was also asked if the two leaders discussed the implications of US President Donald Trump's tariffs. The Republican has imposed a 50 per cent import duty on Indian imports, and a 30 per cent duty on Chinese imports.  

Trump also levied an additional 25 per cent import duty on Indian goods on the pretext of India purchasing Russian oil. 

China, however, has been spared. 

Misri maintained while the two leaders were mindful of international developments, the focus of their talks remained on the bilateral front. 

"They looked at how to leverage these circumstances to build greater understanding between themselves and to advance the economic and commercial relationship between India and China amid these evolving challenges," the foreign secretary said.

ON DIRECT INDIA-CHINA FLIGHTS

Foreign Secretary Misri said that direct flights between India and China are expected to resume soon. 

He noted that both sides have been engaged in "intense discussions" over the past few months. 

A recent visit by an Indian civil aviation delegation including key bureaucrats to Beijing helped advance talks, and a broad consensus has now been reached on restarting services.

"What remains are certain operational issues-relating to the air services agreement, scheduling and calendars-which are being worked out. These should be addressed in the coming weeks," Misri said.  

On trade deficit between India and China; Misri said the matter was raised earlier during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's recent visit to Delhi.

"It is also important to look at the issue of trade and trade deficit from the broad strategic direction and engagement between the two countries. Growing trade between the two countries and narrowing of the deficit will contribute to a change in perception in the relationship as well," Misri said.

He added that the conversation is taking place "at many levels - between governments, businesses, [and] entities that are involved in the trade," and its outcome will depend on how the process evolves going forward.