China discusses Olympic torch safety with India

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March 27, 2008 17:18 IST

Amid Beijing's concern over the security of the Olympic torch during its run in New Delhi, Chinese Ambassador Zhang Yan on Thursday met Home Minister Shivraj Patil to discuss the matter.

Yan was with Patil for about 30 minutes during which they are understood to have discussed various aspects to ensure that the Olympic flame passes through India safely after it comes to Delhi on April 17, sources said.

China apprehends security problems for the torch from Tibetans and their concerns have increased since a group of protesters stormed its embassy in Delhi.

The Chinese Embassy in Delhi has already raised the matter with the ministry of external affairs as well as the Indian Olympic Association.

National Security Adviser M K Narayanan on Wednesday said all steps would be taken to ensure safe passage of the torch during the India-leg.

Before meeting the Home Minister, Zhang sought to downplay the matter, saying concerns about security to the Olympic torch was not a major issue.

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