Chinese Defence Attache Thanks India For Rescuing 12 Crew Off Kerala

China has publicly thanked India for rescuing 12 Chinese crew members from a cargo ship that caught fire and exploded off the coast of Kerala last year, with senior Chinese military official Rear Admiral You Jian describing the operation as an example of humanitarian cooperation between the two neighbouring countries. Speaking at a reception marking the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), the Defence Attaché to India said Beijing would not forget India's assistance and expressed hope for stronger military communication and cooperation as bilateral relations continue to improve.

Addressing diplomats and defence officials, Rear Admiral You Jian said China and India are important neighbours undergoing significant stages of national development and rejuvenation. He noted that relations between the two countries have returned to a positive trajectory under the strategic guidance of their respective leaders. Recalling the maritime rescue operation carried out by the Indian military, he thanked India for saving the lives of the 12 Chinese crew members after the vessel caught fire and suffered explosions off the Kerala coast in June last year.

The Chinese Defence Attaché also highlighted the broader role played by the armed forces of both nations in promoting international peace and security. He noted that India and China have both made substantial contributions to United Nations peacekeeping missions and stressed that the common interests shared by the two countries far outweigh their differences. According to You Jian, these shared responsibilities provide a strong foundation for greater cooperation despite existing geopolitical challenges.

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Expressing Beijing's willingness to strengthen military engagement, You said China is prepared to maintain regular communication with India through diplomatic and defence channels. He added that enhanced dialogue, greater mutual trust and practical cooperation would benefit both countries and contribute to regional stability. He concluded his address by expressing hope for the continued improvement of China-India relations and the expansion of constructive engagement between the two militaries.

The remarks come at a time when ties between New Delhi and Beijing have shown signs of gradual improvement following a series of high-level diplomatic engagements. Recent meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, along with discussions involving senior officials from both governments, have focused on rebuilding trust and advancing bilateral cooperation after years of strained relations.

India and China have continued to hold discussions aimed at the gradual normalisation of bilateral relations while addressing areas of mutual concern through diplomatic dialogue. Although differences remain on several strategic issues, both countries have increasingly emphasised communication, confidence-building measures and cooperation in areas of shared interest. China's public acknowledgement of India's rescue operation is being viewed as a positive diplomatic gesture that reflects the recent efforts by both sides to stabilise and improve their relationship.

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