India and China have agreed to soon reinstate direct flight services between the two countries, particularly between the Chinese mainland and India. This agreement was reached during discussions held during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to India. Furthermore, both nations have committed to finalizing a new Air Services Agreement.
“Both sides agreed to resume direct flight connectivity between Chinese mainland and India at the earliest, and finalize an updated Air Services Agreement. They also agreed on the facilitation of visas to tourists, businesses, media and other visitors in both directions,” according to a statement. The flights were previously suspended due to the Doklam crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. On Tuesday, both parties concurred to further expand the Indian pilgrimage to Mt. Kailash/Gang Renpoche and Lake Manasarovar/Mapam Yun Tso in Tibet, commencing in 2026.
The matter of reopening the Nathula route for the yatra was previously raised in Parliament by Sikkim Rajya Sabha MP DT Lepcha, leading to coordinated efforts between the Government of India and the Government of Sikkim. The resumption of the yatra through Nathula is expected to provide a spiritual avenue for pilgrims, while also fostering tourism and bolstering local economies along the route. On August 19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Wang Yi at the Prime Minister’s Office in Delhi. PM Modi asked Wang Yi to convey his cordial greetings to Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, expressing his anticipation of attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Tianjin Summit in China and meeting with President Xi Jinping. India will fully support China’s role as the rotating chair of the SCO and ensure the summit’s success.
PM Modi noted that India and China share a long history of friendly exchanges as ancient civilizations. The meeting between leaders in Kazan last October marked a significant turning point in bilateral relations. India and China are partners, not rivals, and face the common task of accelerating development. They should strengthen exchanges, enhance understanding, and expand cooperation. Both sides should also handle border issues prudently to prevent disagreements from escalating into disputes.