India and China to Resume Direct Passenger Flights After Suspension in 2020
India and China have reached a significant agreement to resume direct passenger flights between the two countries after nearly five years of interruption. This announcement, made by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, marks a major step forward in relations between the two Asian powers, which have been strained since the 2020 military clash along the disputed Himalayan border.
Context of Tensions
The 2020 border conflict marked a low point in bilateral relations between India and China. This incident prompted the Indian government to take drastic measures, such as restricting investments from Chinese companies, banning hundreds of popular apps, and suspending passenger flights between the two nations—though direct cargo flights continued.
However, the past four months have seen a shift in dynamics between the two countries, following several high-level meetings, including a key encounter between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Russia in October 2024.
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Progress Toward Cooperation
The recent announcement regarding the resumption of direct flights is the result of negotiations between China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Beijing. Both parties have agreed to negotiate a framework for restoring air services in an upcoming meeting.
According to Wang Yi, the two nations should work in the same direction, exploring substantial measures and committing to mutual understanding. The resumption of direct flights not only aims to enhance connectivity between the two countries but also to promote an atmosphere of mutual trust and economic cooperation.
Impact on Trade and Economy
One of the key topics during the discussions was resolving specific concerns in economic and trade areas. The goal is to promote transparency and predictability in long-term policies, which is crucial for strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Additionally, it was reported that China had requested India’s civil aviation authorities in June 2024 to reinstate air links. However, India was initially hesitant due to ongoing tensions related to the border conflict. With recent progress in negotiations, India is now also considering accelerating visa approvals, further facilitating exchanges between the two countries.
In Wang Yi’s words, the two nations must commit to an approach of “mutual support and shared achievements.” This message underscores both nations’ intent to move past their historical differences and build a relationship based on cooperation and mutual benefit.
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