Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's current visit to China has caught worldwide attention, as it is his first one to China since he assumed office last year. Some describe the meeting between the two sides as "a historical meeting of the dragon and the elephant". But how have ties been between the two neighbors in recent years and where are they headed?

A visit hailed as a new milestone in Sino-Indian relations.

Both China and India view each other as important partners in the Asia-Pacific region. The sizes of the two countries, their development potential and the strength of their economies contributing largely to this view.

Experts say despite some differences over some issues, both sides are keen to strengthen political ties and maintain mutual trust.

"Currently we have seen that the two countries believe that whey have to pay more attention to each other and attach more importance to each other, and that is why we witnessed the two countries talk more to each other and involve each other in their own developing strategies and plans," Su Xiaohui with China Institute Of Int'l Studies said.

It's obvious that between China and India there are some differences and problems for the two sides to talk about, but it won't influence the overall picture of the bilateral relationship and both countries believe that they need to talk more and exchange more.

Chinese President Xi Jinping paid an official visit to India last September, when he expressed China's willingness to build a closer partnership with India. In Su's opinion, such frequent high-level exchanges will help the two sides to increase their joint regional influence.

"In recent years there is a popular saying that is the "Asia century", I believe that currently Asia is rising and China and India, as important players in the region, will play a more important role in this process. It's obvious that both China and India believe that if the two countries can work together, the Asian countries will come out soon," Su said.

China and India are among the biggest emerging powers in the world. Their combined population has exceeded a third of the global population. And the effects of stronger bilateral ties will go beyond their borders and increase their influence on the world.