India to hold dialogue with China on Central Asia

NEW DELHI - India will send a senior diplomat to China next week to hold first bilateral dialogue with Chinese counterpart on Central Asia on August 12 and 13 in Beijing, reported local newspaper Indian Express Saturday.

The move is made amid India's policy of "Connect Central Asia" and engagement between Delhi and Beijing on regional and global issues, said the newspaper.

India and China have already held dialogue at senior diplomatic level on Afghanistan, West Asia, Africa and anti-terrorism. The two sides are also expected to hold dialogue on maritime affairs, disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control, according to official sources.

India is seeking greater economic and trade ties with Central Asian countries, all former Soviet republics, in its "Connect Central Asia" policy.