Troika dialogue in Harbin a mix tarka of serious talks, sumptuous Chinese delicacies and music

The troika dialogue between China, India and Russia witnessed a grandiose opening in the beautiful resort town of Harbin on Wednesday.

By Naveen Kapoor

Harbin (China), Oct.24 : The troika dialogue between China, India and Russia witnessed a grandiose opening in the beautiful resort town of Harbin on Wednesday.

As leaders and officials raised a toast to each other in the huge ballroom of the plush Shangrilla Hotel, the mesmerizing sound of Chinese music, performed by a live orchestra, created an atmosphere of warmth and humility.

Chinese musicians were specially flown in from Beijing to perform at the event, which was complemented with sizzling and traditional Chinese delicacies, delighting the taste buds of participants.

Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi, who hosted the luncheon, said " You all should enjoy the work and beauty of the dynamic city of Harbin. Hailing the troika initiative, Jiechi further said: "Our joint efforts and meetings will be crowned with success".

Although the troika dialogue is not hogging Chinese newspaper headlines, at least 80 mediapersons from different organizations have converged from all over the globe to cover the event.

Speaking to ANI , Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Jiang Hu said that China attaches great importance to its relations with India, as both countries are similar in many ways. She said the troika talks need to become a fixed mechanism to promote coordination and cooperation.

The venue of the troika talks might be bustling and brimming with activity, but the common man in Harbin seems unaware of its import.

Harbin, the capital of China's north east Heilongjiang Province, is historically and geographically very close to Russia.

In fact, the city has traces of Russian culture and tradition in its art and architecture. However, a large majority of people living in the province have very little or no idea about India. This is being cited by the Chinese foreign ministry as the main reason for choosing this venue for the talks. The Chinese are keen to provide a bird's eye view of India to the locals.

ANI