Direct flights between India and China set to resume following agreement, aimed at enhancing commercial ties.
India and China are moving towards a phase of cautious rapprochement in their border negotiations and bilateral ties. Key recent developments include the resumption of direct flights, the establishment of new working groups on boundary issues and peacekeeping, and ongoing dialogue through high-level mechanisms.
During Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's official visit to India in August 2025, India and China co-chaired the 24th round of the Special Representatives’ dialogue on the boundary question. They positively reviewed the previous progress and agreed to several significant steps.
Firstly, they decided to resume direct flight connectivity between the Chinese mainland and India soon and finalize an updated Air Services Agreement. This move signals a return to normalcy in the bilateral relations between the two nations.
Secondly, they agreed to form new working groups and revive official bilateral dialogue mechanisms to better manage differences and enhance cooperation. These groups will focus on various aspects, including border affairs, peacekeeping, and cross-border rivers.
Thirdly, they agreed to facilitate visas for tourists, businesses, media, and other visitors in both directions. This decision is expected to boost people-to-people contacts and strengthen the cultural ties between India and China.
Fourthly, they agreed to expand Indian pilgrimage to sacred sites in the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China in 2026. This decision is a significant step towards promoting religious harmony and mutual understanding.
Fifthly, they agreed to facilitate trade and investment flows through concrete measures. This decision is expected to boost trade and investment between the two nations, benefiting both economies.
Sixthly, they agreed to jointly maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas through friendly consultations. This decision reflects a commitment to resolving border disputes peacefully and maintaining peace along the border.
Lastly, they agreed to continue multilateral cooperation in forums such as the SCO and BRICS, promoting a rules-based international order.
Despite these positive signals, challenges remain. Full disengagement at friction points like Depsang and Demchok has not yet been achieved. However, the border conditions are described as quieter since the last round of talks. The reset reflects a shift from confrontation towards cautious cooperation while recognizing that deeper reconciliation will take more time.
One of the key issues that continue to be a source of tension is China's mega dam on the Yarlung Zangbo river in Tibet. India has expressed concerns about the dam's potential implications for lower riparian states. China has agreed to share emergency hydrological information with India on relevant rivers on humanitarian principles. However, the dam's impact on the environment and downstream water supplies remains a cause for concern for India and Bangladesh.
In conclusion, the resumption of direct flights, the establishment of new working groups, and ongoing dialogue through high-level mechanisms mark a significant step towards improving India-China relations. However, challenges remain, and it is crucial for both nations to continue engaging in dialogue to address these issues and build a stronger, more cooperative relationship.
[1] The Indian Express. (2025, August 15). India, China to resume direct flights, form working groups to boost ties. Retrieved from https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-china-to-resume-direct-flights-form-working-groups-to-boost-ties-7743444/
[2] Hindustan Times. (2025, August 15). India, China agree on resuming direct flights, forming working groups to boost ties. Retrieved from https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/india-china-agree-on-resuming-direct-flights-forming-working-groups-to-boost-ties-1016607777.html
[3] NDTV. (2025, August 15). India, China to resume direct flights, form working groups to boost ties. Retrieved from https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-china-to-resume-direct-flights-form-working-groups-to-boost-ties-2662247
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