India and China are resuming direct passenger flights later this month, marking the end of a suspension that has lasted over five years. India’s foreign ministry confirmed the decision on Thursday, describing it as a step toward strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Flights Resume Between Major Cities
The suspension of direct flights began in 2020 during the global pandemic. Since then, no non-stop routes have operated between the two countries. However, the return of flights marks renewed efforts to normalize relations.
IndiGo, India’s largest carrier, announced daily flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou starting October 26. In addition, the airline plans to launch a new route connecting New Delhi with a Chinese city. These moves reflect growing optimism about travel and business links.
Recent Diplomatic Engagement
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited China a month ago to attend a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. This was his first visit to China in seven years. During the summit, Modi met with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Both leaders stressed that India and China are development partners, not rivals. They discussed expanding trade and cooperation at a time of global tariff uncertainty. Modi also raised India’s concerns about its growing trade deficit with China. The current gap stands at nearly $99.2 billion.
Balancing Trade and Border Issues
While both sides agreed to deepen trade ties, Modi emphasized the need for peace along the disputed border. A deadly clash in 2020 sparked a military standoff that lasted five years. Maintaining stability remains essential for long-term cooperation.
Conclusion
The resumption of direct flights between India and China highlights cautious progress in easing bilateral tensions. It also underlines their commitment to strengthening economic and diplomatic ties while managing sensitive border issues.
About The Truth International
The Truth International (TTI), based in Islamabad, is a private organization, doing research work/projects and running its print and digital media wing _ a website, a fortnightly magazine, a YouTube Channel, and social media pages on all platforms. Stay up to date by staying connected to The Truth International.
