The CPEC which is part of Chinese President Xi Jinping's

One Belt and One Road project assumes significance this year as Xi has called for a world leaders summit on the initiative in May this year.

Chinese officials say that Beijing is keen on Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending the summit, notwithstanding differences.

Over 20 leaders, including Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe have so far confirmed their participation.

Officials say China may raise this during Jaishankar's visit as Beijing plans to make it one of its biggest summit meetings considering it is Xi's personal initiative.

India's ties with the US and Chinese investments in India were also expected to figure in talks during Jaishankar's visit.

The two sides have been stressing that they are holding talks at various levels to iron out differences, stressing that dialogue is the best way forward.

Commenting on reports of "friction points" in the bilateral relationship, including the Azhar issue and India's admission into the NSG, Geng said "differences are only natural".

Officials say Jaishankar's talks here in the next two days were expected to set the tone for bilateral ties this year.

(This article has not been edited by DNA's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)