Beijing: China on April 21 accorded a red carpet welcome to Defence Minister George Fernandes who kicked of high-level talks with the Chinese military on bilateral ties, regional and international issues of common concern.

Fernandes, who is on his first-ever trip to China, was given a ceremonial guard of honour presented by the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) at the headquarters of the central military commission (CMC) in Beijing.

The Defence Minister, attired in a traditional 'bandh-gala' was warmly welcomed by his Chinese counterpart, General Cao Gangchuan and the two exchanged greetings and shook hands.

Fernandes and Gen Cao then inspected guard of honour presented by the smartly turned out tri-service PLA marching contingent.

Following the official welcoming ceremony, the two sides entered the massive and spanking building of the CMC and started official-level talks.

Warmly welcoming Fernandes on his first visit, Cao, who is also a state councillor (senior Cabinet Minister), said the Chinese government and the CMC/PLA attached great importance to the visit by the Indian Defence Minister, which is coming after a gap of over a decade.

"We are happy to see you here and during the meeting, I hope to exchange views with you on issues of common interest," he said.

Reciprocating the warm reception given to him and the high-level Indian delegation, Fernandes, said he intended to visit China much earlier, but had to postpone the trip due to certain reasons.

PTI