Beijing: India and China concluded a crucial round of border talks in Beijing today (Nov 19, 2004) on a positive note with the two sides having "frank" and "detailed" exchanges of views on the principles that could form the framework of a possible boundary agreement.

The fourth round of talks, at the level of Special Representatives, was held in Beijing between National Security Advisor J N Dixit and Chinese Executive Vice Foreign Minister Dai Bingguo from Nov 18-19.

"The meeting was held in a friendly, constructive and cooperative atmosphere. The exchange of views was frank and detailed," the Indian embassy said in a press statement.

The in-camera discussions under the fourth round of talks were spread over three rounds, informed sources said, adding that two rounds were held yesterday (Nov 18, 2004), the first day of the talks. The third round was held this morning.

The India-China boundary issue is a "very complex problem and we are making gradual progress," the sources said.

"We moved away from the introductory rounds of exchanges to fairly detailed discussions in two sections, (firstly) principles and terms of reference on the basis of which the settlement of the boundary issue could be established.

"Secondly, the actual framework -- an exchange of views on what we envisage how the boundary should be actually delineated on the ground," the sources said.

"In both sessions, the discussions were candid. Both sides clearly spelt out each other's views and details regarding each principles and ingredient of what could be the framework," they said.