Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian said during a press conference: "We noted Prime Minister Modi's remarks. As two neighbors and emerging major countries each with a population of over 1 billion, the growth of China-India relations will not only benefit our two countries and peoples, but also add stability and positive energy to peace and prosperity of the region and the world at large."

He said mutual respect and support between China and India is the right path and serves the long-term interests of both countries.

He said: "China will continue to work with India to enhance political mutual trust, properly manage differences, strengthen practical cooperation and jointly uphold the big picture of bilateral relations."

Relationship between India and China hit a new low this year after soldiers from both the nations were engaged in a standoff in the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh.

The standoff left 20 Indian soldiers dead while the casualty on the Chinese side was not revealed by the latter.

Image: Chinese Foreign Ministry website