On November 23, 2006, Chinese President Hu Jintao met with Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Vilasrao Deshmukh in Mumbai.

       Hu said China shares a tradition of friendly exchanges with Maharashtra, where Dr. D. S. Kotnis, a great friend of the Chinese people, was born, adding that his name has become a symbol of Sino-Indian friendship. In recent years, both sides have conducted sound cooperation in the areas of economy, trade, finance, IT, infrastructure construction, and humanities, Hu said. With the steady economic growth of the two countries and sustained development of bilateral ties, their mutually beneficial cooperation will face a broader prospect, he added. Hu hoped both sides take the opportunity to enhance ties, expand exchanges and cooperation, and promote common development so as to make greater contributions to bilateral ties.

       Deshmukh said the people of Maharashtra warmly welcome Hu's visit. He briefed Hu on the developments of his state, expressing willingness to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with China in the fields of information, biology, and engineering.

        Hu said the state of Maharashtra enjoys a favorable geological location and a time-honored history and culture. Its capital city of Mumbai, also known as a capital of business and finance of India, has long enjoyed a good reputation as an international city. The Chinese government supports businesses to invest and develop in the state and cooperate with their Indian counterparts. Hu wished Maharashtra greater achievements in its economic and social development.

        On the morning of the same day, Hu called on the staff of the Chinese consulate-general in Mumbai, and representatives from Chinese-funded institutions and overseas Chinese.

         Wang Gang, Alternate Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, Member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, and other accompanying officials attended these activities.