The Chinese Consul General in Kolkata, Xu Wei, has confirmed that China and India are in discussions to resume direct flights, following a nearly five-year hiatus. This marks a potential thaw in bilateral relations between the two countries, which were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent border clashes. Direct flights between China and India were suspended in early 2020 as the pandemic took hold and the two nations faced rising tensions along their shared border. Prior to the disruptions, the two countries operated up to 50 flights per week connecting major cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Kunming to New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and others.

At a press conference, Xu Wei stated that both sides are actively working to resume these services as soon as possible. This move follows a statement made by India’s foreign ministry in January, following a visit to China by top Indian diplomat Vikram Mistri. The statement confirmed that both countries had agreed “in principle” to restore direct air services between them.

In addition to the air services, Xu Wei highlighted the ongoing celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and India. He expressed optimism for the future of their bilateral ties, calling the upcoming anniversary a sign of a new “spring” in China-India relations. “We are happy to see that the spring of China-India relations is arriving,” he said. The two countries are set to commemorate this milestone with a series of joint events.

Wei also mentioned that China hopes India will relax its visa policies for Chinese citizens and anticipates an increase in trade between the two nations. The resumption of direct flights is seen as a significant step in rebuilding and strengthening the relationship between the two countries, fostering both economic and diplomatic ties. With both sides committed to revitalizing their cooperation, the move to restore direct air services is expected to pave the way for closer engagement in various sectors.

IT.