China and India have agreed to resume direct flights and deepen cross-border river collaboration, marking progress in bilateral relations. High-level talks between China’s Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong and India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri focused on fostering mutual trust and strategic communication. Agreements also include facilitating personnel exchanges, journalist interactions, and resuming Indian pilgrimages to Tibet. Following tensions from the 2020, recent troop disengagement along the border has paved the way for renewed dialogue and strengthened cooperation.
China and India are taking steps to enhance their bilateral relationship by agreeing to resume direct flights and deepen collaboration on cross-border river management. These developments follow high-level talks held on Monday, signaling a positive shift in ties between the two neighboring nations.
During the discussions, China's Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong and India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri engaged under the framework of a foreign secretary-vice minister mechanism. Both sides emphasized the importance of improving strategic communication and fostering mutual trust. According to China’s Foreign Ministry, the talks aimed to "actively promote dialogue, exchanges, and practical cooperation with a frank and constructive attitude."
In a statement released on Tuesday, China announced several key agreements. These include the resumption of direct flights between the two nations and measures to facilitate personnel exchanges as well as interactions between journalists. Additionally, arrangements are being negotiated to restart Indian pilgrimages to Tibet “as soon as possible.” Another round of discussions on cross-border river cooperation is also planned, showcasing a commitment to addressing shared water resource challenges.
The statement further emphasized a long-term and strategic approach to bilateral relations. “China stressed that the two sides should … properly handle differences and push China-India relations forward along a healthy and stable track,” it said.
These agreements come at a time of improving relations between the countries. Tensions had escalated in 2020. In the aftermath, India imposed restrictions on Chinese investments, banned popular Chinese apps, and suspended passenger flights. However, progress has been evident since October, when both nations agreed to disengage troops along their disputed border. This move saw a significant reduction of frontline forces, paving the way for renewed dialogue and cooperation.
The latest developments reflect a shared commitment to rebuilding trust and promoting stability. By resuming flights, encouraging cultural exchanges, and addressing shared concerns, China and India are taking meaningful steps toward a stronger and more cooperative future.
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