During talks held in India, India and China reached an understanding on resuming direct flight operations, specifically between the Chinese mainland and India. This decision was a key outcome of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit. Both nations also agreed to finalize a revised Air Services Agreement.
A joint statement indicated that both sides consented to restarting direct flight connectivity between the Chinese mainland and India promptly, and to finalize an updated Air Services Agreement. Additionally, they agreed on visa facilitation for tourists, business professionals, media representatives, and other visitors in both directions. The flights were suspended due to the Doklam crisis and the subsequent COVID-19 pandemic. A further agreement was reached to expand the Indian pilgrimage to Mt. Kailash/Gang Renpoche and Lake Manasarovar/Mapam Yun Tso in Tibet, with expansion beginning in 2026.
The possibility of reopening the Nathula route for the yatra was previously discussed in Parliament by Sikkim Rajya Sabha MP DT Lepcha, prompting collaborative efforts between the Indian government and the government of Sikkim. Resuming the yatra via Nathula is anticipated to offer a spiritual opportunity for pilgrims, concurrently promoting tourism and economic growth in the areas along the route. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Wang Yi in Delhi on August 19. Prime Minister Modi requested that Wang Yi convey his greetings to Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, and expressed his eagerness to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Tianjin Summit in China, looking forward to a meeting with President Xi Jinping. India will fully support China’s chairmanship of the SCO, ensuring the summit’s success.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted that India and China, as ancient civilizations, have a long history of friendly interactions. The meeting between the leaders in Kazan last October represented a pivotal moment in improving and developing bilateral relations. India and China are partners, not competitors, and share the common goal of accelerating development. They should bolster exchanges, improve understanding, and extend cooperation. They should also manage border issues cautiously to prevent differences from escalating into disputes.