New Delhi, Jan 11 : With their energy interests coinciding in the piracy-infested Gulf of Aden, India and China are now deliberating joining hands to combat pirates on the high seas.

Both the countries, whose bulk of trade and energy supplies pass through the Gulf of Aden, have already deployed warships in the region to thwart pirates.

"The two countries have been discussing information sharing on anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden," a senior defence ministry official said, requesting anonymity.

The issue had come up for discussion during the visit of Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar to China Jan 6-7.

The Indian Navy has maintained the presence of one warship off Somalia and has foiled many piracy bids. Its performance in the anti-piracy operations has won it accolades from the United Nations.

Following the Indian Navy, the Chinese Navy also deployed its warships in the region. (IANS)