Indian PM expected to visit President Xi's hometown

President Xi Jinping on Monday called for a continued advancement of ties between China and India when he received Swaraj at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

"Leaders of the two countries should maintain communication and exchanges and work together to ensure the correct direction for the development of the bilateral ties," Xi said.

Swaraj said Prime Minister Modi looked forward to visiting China and she believed this visit would bring important progress for the relationship. The Indian side hopes for more dialogue on border issues, she added.

Swaraj also held talks with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on bilateral ties in Beijing on Sunday, stressing that India would like to make joint efforts with China to strengthen understanding and mutual trust, properly handle the differences, advance comprehensive cooperation and sound coordination in international and regional affairs.

As the second largest economy, China is the largest neighboring country of India, Swaraj said, noting that India and China have broad common interests and both countries can benefit from each other's development.

Wang made some suggestions on bilateral ties in 2015. He said China and India should continue to keep high-level visits and strategic communication open, and China welcomes Modi's to visit China this year.