NEW DELHI: In a significant move towards normalizing bilateral relations, India and China have agreed to resume direct commercial flights after nearly five years of suspension. This decision was announced following Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent visit to Beijing.
The suspension of direct flights between the two nations began in 2020, initially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequent border tensions, notably the violent clashes in the Galwan Valley in June 2020, further strained relations and prolonged the halt in air connectivity.
The agreement to resume flights is part of a broader initiative to enhance people-to-people exchanges. Both countries have also committed to facilitating media and think-tank interactions, aiming to foster mutual understanding and cooperation. Technical authorities from India and China are scheduled to meet soon to negotiate an updated framework for the resumption of air services.
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This development follows a series of diplomatic engagements aimed at mending bilateral ties. Notably, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held discussions during the BRICS summit in Russia, signaling a mutual desire to improve relations.
The resumption of direct flights is expected to benefit travelers and businesses in both countries significantly. Before the suspension, as of December 2019, Chinese and Indian airlines operated 539 scheduled direct flights monthly between the two nations, offering a cumulative seat capacity of approximately 1.6 million.
In addition to restoring air connectivity, India and China have agreed to facilitate the exchange of journalists and to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a pilgrimage of significant spiritual importance to Indian devotees, which had been halted since 2020.
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While these steps indicate a positive trajectory in India-China relations, challenges remain. Both nations have ongoing concerns, including border security and water resource management issues. However, the agreement to resume direct flights and other exchanges reflects a mutual commitment to rebuilding trust and enhancing bilateral cooperation.
As technical discussions progress, travelers and businesses await detailed information on flight schedules and routes. The successful resumption of direct air services is anticipated to be crucial in strengthening economic and cultural ties between the two neighbouring countries.