In a significant step towards bettering relations between India and China, both countries have agreed to resume direct air travel after nearly five years. This announcement, made by India’s foreign ministry on January 27, 2025, signals a positive change in the relationship between the two neighboring nations. The decision comes after tensions that erupted in 2020 due to a deadly military clash along their shared Himalayan border.
Since the 2020 clash, relations between India and China had become strained. India took several actions, such as banning popular Chinese apps, restricting investments from Chinese companies, and suspending passenger flight routes. However, despite these actions, cargo flights between the two countries continued without interruption.
This breakthrough in air travel marks the beginning of a potential thaw in their relations. According to the Indian foreign ministry, both countries will soon meet to negotiate the framework for the resumption of flights. Although the exact timeline for this is not yet clear, the meeting is expected to take place soon.
Over the last few months, there have been efforts to improve ties between India and China. High-level meetings have taken place, including a significant conversation between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Russia in October 2024. This meeting reflected a desire to improve mutual understanding and cooperation.
The resumption of air travel is a part of a broader effort to strengthen economic and trade relations. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently met with Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Beijing, where the two sides discussed various concerns, especially in economic and trade areas. Wang emphasized the need for both countries to work together in a spirit of cooperation rather than suspicion, focusing on long-term policy transparency and predictability.
In addition to the resumption of flights, India and China have agreed to take steps toward greater dialogue and cooperation in other areas. They will continue with a step-by-step approach, involving expert-level meetings and exchanges on multiple levels. This approach is designed to foster trust and mutual support, gradually easing any remaining tensions.
The decision to open up direct air services again shows a clear commitment from both sides to move past their differences and strengthen bilateral ties. It also offers an opportunity for improved connectivity and economic exchange, which will benefit both nations in the long run.
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