India, China ink deal on cultural exchange

8220;Both India and China have very rich cultural heritage. This exchange programme will help both the countries come closer through increased interaction,8221; said Ambika Soni. The exchange programme would also involve interactions between writers, officials and mediapersons.

The Chinese Minister hopes that the programme would further strengthen ties between the two countries. 8220;China is pleased to have this arrangement with India. We hope that the cultures of both the countries flourish and enrich each other through such interactions,8221; he said.

Playing down the controversy over the road China is building to the base camp of Mt Everest, Jiazheng said it was part of the developmental works being undertaken by his government. 8220;Development of infrastructure is an important part of China8217;s development in recent years,8221; he said.