Buddhism is a strong bond between India and China, says PM Narendra Modi

Expressing confidence that Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit will strengthen the ties between the two nations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that Buddhism is a strong bond between India and China.

"Buddhism is a very strong bond between China & India. In fact, Gujarat too has a very rich Buddhist heritage," he said on twitter.

Prime Minister further said that he looks forward to welcoming the Chinese President in Ahmedabad on September 17.

The Prime Minister also shared on twitter maps of the travels of seventh century AD traveller Xuanzang of his visits to Gujarat.

"Well known Chinese traveller Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang) noted the presence of Buddhist monasteries, monks in parts of Guj," Prime Minister Modi said.

Well known Chinese traveller Xuanzang(Hiuen Tsang) noted the presence of Buddhist monasteries, monks in parts of Guj pic.twitter.com/EohQiwH1ts

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 15, 2014

"The place where I was born, Vadnagar too has a rich Buddhist influence including a Monastery," he added.

The place where I was born, Vadnagar too has a rich Buddhist influence including a Monastery. pic.twitter.com/WBzaX8Taam

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 15, 2014

Speaking of Maurya king Ashoka, who famously converted to Buddhism, Prime Minister Modi tweeted, "Ashokan Edict in Junagadh shows Samrat Ashok's reverence towards Buddhism & focuses on social & moral precepts."

The Chinese President will arrive in India on September 17. He shall first land in Ahmedabad, where he will be hosted by the Prime Minister in a private affair, before travelling to New Delhi.