China, India to sign accord to boost ties

Mukherjee, who arrived in Beijing Sunday, will oversee the signing of the accord, which the Indian defence ministry had said would institutionalise training, exercises and other contacts between the two countries' armed forces.

"During the visit, the two sides are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding on exchanges and cooperation in the field of defence," the Indian embassy said in a statement issued Monday.

The agreement will aim to develop "a strategic and cooperative partnership for peace and prosperity between India and China," and at enhancing trust between the two militaries, the Indian defence ministry said ahead of Mukherjee's visit.

Mukherjee is scheduled to hold meetings with his Chinese counterpart, Cao Gangchuan, and Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing Monday, the China Daily newspaper reported.

He will also call on Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao Tuesday.