India, China Ask World To Adhere To Panchsheel Principles

"Geographical proximity has helped develop and sustain cordial relations and facilitated people-to-people contacts. A significant population of Indian origin resides in Myanmar. Our shared history and common interests paves the way for greater mutually beneficial cooperation," he stated.

On the global level, Ansari said, "Panchsheel preserves the right of all nations to choose their own path while interacting with others on the basis of mutual respect and equality".

"We gather here today to reaffirm the timeless relevance of Panchsheel in establishing a peaceful, stable, prosperous and secure world."

In his keynote speech, Chinese President Xi stressed that security should be universal, saying all countries have the right to participate in international and regional security affairs on an equal footing, Xinhua reported.

"We should champion common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security, and respect and ensure every country's security," Xi told the 700-strong audience.

"It is unacceptable to have security just for one country or some countries while leaving the rest insecure, and still less should one be allowed to seek the so-called 'absolute security' of itself at the expense of others' security."

Disputes and differences between countries should be resolved through dialogue, consultation and peaceful means, Xi said, adding that countries should increase mutual trust, and settle disputes and promote security through dialogue.

"Willful threat or use of force should be rejected," said Xi. "Flexing military muscles only reveals the lack of moral ground or vision rather than reflecting one's strength."

He said security can be solid and enduring only if its is based on moral high ground and vision.

"We should work for a new architecture of Asia-Pacific security cooperation that is open, transparent and equality-based, and bring all countries together in a common endeavor to maintain peace and security in both our region and the world," Xi said.

Also present at the commemoration event were Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, top legislator Zhang Dejiang, top political advisor Yu Zhengsheng, and Myanmar President U Thein Sein.

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