Sounding upbeat on his maiden visit, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday expressed optimism on India and China working closely together in creating a world of mutual prosperity, rather than one based on calculations of balance of power and animosity.

“The rise of China is among the most important developments of our times,” he said, addressing scholars at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, a premier think tank here.

“As China’s largest neighbour, and a friend, we cannot remain untouched by this momentous process,” he said, while noting that the destinies of the two countries were linked by geography and history.

Enough space

Dr Singh, who wrapped up his three-day trip during which he called on President Hu Jintao and held extensive talks with Prime Minister Wen Jiabao, said he “looked forward with optimism to the future and the role which India and China are destined to play in the transformation of Asia and the world as well.”

He said this optimism was based on his conviction that there was “enough space” for both countries to grow and prosper while strengthening their cooperative engagement.

“History shows that our two civilisations flourished for centuries, side by side, interacting and influencing each other,” he noted.