NEW DELHI: India has denied Chinese Foreign Ministry's statement that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a meeting during the BRICS summit at India's request. India also responded that the meeting was held on the basis of China's previous request.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the meeting was held at China's request and that the two leaders held informal talks at the Leaders' Lounge during the BRICS summit. The Chinese Foreign Ministry said the two leaders exchanged views on current India-China relations and other issues of mutual interest.

President Xi said that the improvement of relations is good for the common interests of the two countries and peoples, and it will contribute to the peace, stability and development of the world. A meeting between the two leaders was not scheduled till the concluding day of the summit.

Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said that an agreement has been reached to speed up the withdrawal of troops and continue efforts to maintain peace. He said that the Prime Minister has expressed concern over the continuation of border disputes.