Xi given warm welcome in India

Despite the summit's relaxed nature, the ambassador said it is expected to provide direction to officials on both sides so they can "address better the issues that we have been dealing with over a long period of time".

In their first informal meeting last year, the two leaders reached the consensus that the differences between the two countries should not be allowed to turn into disputes.

"Both of us have to work to ensure that this consensus is fully respected," Misri said, adding that preserving peace and tranquility on the borders is crucial for the stable development of bilateral relations.

He said that both Modi and Xi are "very strong and very popular leaders", and they are fully capable of shaping the future of the bilateral relationship in a constructive and mutually beneficial direction.