India and China Agree to Resume Direct Air Services After Five Years
Thaw in Relations
India and China have agreed to resume direct air services after nearly five years, according to India’s foreign ministry. This move signals a thaw in relations between the two nations after a deadly 2020 military clash on their disputed Himalayan border.
Background to the Dispute
Tensions soured between the two nations after the 2020 clash, following which India made it difficult for Chinese companies to invest in the country, banned hundreds of popular apps, and severed passenger routes. Although direct cargo flights continued to operate between the countries, the relationship remained strained.
Improving Relations
Relations have improved over the past four months with several high-level meetings, including talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Russia in October. This latest development is a significant step towards normalizing ties between the two countries.
Framework for Air Services
Both sides will negotiate a framework on the flights in a meeting to be held at an "early date," the ministry said after a meeting between India’s top diplomat and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Economic and Trade Concerns
Specific concerns in the economic and trade areas were discussed with a view to resolving these issues and promoting long-term policy transparency and predictability, the Indian foreign ministry statement said. The two nations have agreed to work together to resolve outstanding issues and promote mutual understanding.
Resuming Dialogue
Both nations have also agreed to resume dialogue for functional exchanges step by step and with an early meeting of the India-China Expert Level Mechanism, India’s foreign ministry said. This move is seen as a significant step towards easing tensions between the two countries.
Conclusion
The agreement to resume direct air services is a significant step towards normalizing relations between India and China. The two nations have made significant progress in improving their ties over the past few months, and this latest development is a testament to their commitment to working together.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of the agreement to resume direct air services between India and China?
A: The agreement signals a thaw in relations between the two nations and is a significant step towards normalizing ties.
Q: What were the reasons for the strain in relations between India and China?
A: The 2020 military clash on their disputed Himalayan border led to tensions between the two nations, resulting in restrictions on Chinese investments, app bans, and severed passenger routes.
Q: How have relations improved between India and China over the past few months?
A: Relations have improved with several high-level meetings, including talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Russia in October.
Q: What is the next step in normalizing relations between India and China?
A: Both sides will negotiate a framework on the flights in a meeting to be held at an "early date," and will continue to work together to resolve outstanding issues and promote mutual understanding.