The broad framework for resolving the border dispute with China is likely to be in place by the time Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao visits the country next year, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Tuesday.

Manmohan Singh, who arrived here Tuesday after attending the third India-ASEAN Summit in Laos, said during his bilateral meeting with Wen, it was hoped the "broad parameters" of resolving the border dispute would be in place before the Chinese premier's visit.

Talking to reporters aboard the special Air-India One flight, he described his visit to Laos for the India-ASEAN Summit as "fruitful".

Manmohan Singh said he was overwhelmed by the warmth shown towards India by the leadership of all the ASEAN members and the grouping's dialogue partners.

--Indo-Asian News Service