The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee addressed eminent cultural and academic personalities in Beijing today (May 25, 2016). The event was co-hosted by Embassy of India and Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries.

Speaking on the occasion, the President said the possibilities for closer cooperation between India and China are limitless. Realizing the full potential of our relationship is a shared responsibility. Our Governments have a primary role, but the efforts of civil society, academia, think tanks, cultural icons and artists are equally important. They are the story-tellers and interpreters of our great relationship- the living soul - that sustains, enriches and strengthens it. He urged the distinguished leaders in the fields of art and culture to transform India-China ties. He said it is they who can make it possible to minimize discord and disharmony. It is they who will increase the synergy between India and China.

The President said he was among those who firmly believed that ours is a defining partnership of the 21st century. The thriving academic and cultural exchanges that had defined our ancient contacts will continue to be a foundational component of our partnership.

This release issued at1825 hrs.