India and China Resume Direct Flights After Five Years

In a significant development indicative of thawing diplomatic relations, India and China are poised to reinstate direct flights between the two nations this month, following a five-year hiatus. This move marks a crucial step towards the gradual normalization of bilateral exchanges between the Asian giants.

India's premier budget carrier, IndiGo, has announced the recommencement of direct flights connecting Kolkata and Guangzhou, scheduled to begin operations from October 26. This initiative is anticipated to catalyze people-to-people interactions and foster improved understanding between the two countries.

The suspension of direct air links in 2020 was precipitated by deadly skirmishes along the ill-defined 3,440km Himalayan border, resulting in casualties on both sides and a subsequent freeze in diplomatic ties. However, over the past year, Beijing and New Delhi have engaged in a series of high-level dialogues and implemented confidence-building measures to ameliorate the strained relationship.

Recent diplomatic overtures include China permitting Indian pilgrims to access religious sites in the Tibet Autonomous Region, while India has reciprocated by reinstating visa services for Chinese tourists. Furthermore, both nations have agreed to resume discussions on border trade through designated mountain passes.

This rapprochement is occurring against the backdrop of shifting geopolitical dynamics, with India's relations with the United States experiencing turbulence due to trade disputes. The gradual rekindling of Sino-Indian ties, exemplified by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, underscores the complex and evolving nature of regional diplomacy in Asia.