India and China are in active dialogue to resume direct flights between India and China in an effort to increase people-to-people contact and further normalize bilateral ties. This comes on the heels of a virtual freeze on direct air connectivity for nearly five years, mainly because of the COVID-19 pandemic followed by border standoffs.
Historical Background and Suspension of Flights
Before the suspension, there were around 50 direct flights each week connecting big cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Kunming with New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. These flights were suspended at the onset of 2020 during the global pandemic and increased border conflicts.
In January 2025, while Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri was visiting Beijing, the two countries mutually agreed in principle to restore direct air services. This understanding was also echoed by the Chinese Consul General in Kolkata, Xu Wei, highlighting the continued attempts at restoring pre-pandemic air routes. Xu Wei sounded upbeat about the emerging improvement in relations and noted that the “spring of relations is arriving.”   
Larger Initiatives to Promote Bilateral Ties
Aside from reviving flights, India and China are looking to further deepen their relationship with other initiatives:
• Kailash Manasarovar Yatra: It is in discussions to revive the sacred pilgrimage for 2025, which represents a strong signal towards cultural and religious interactions.
• Media and Think-Tank Interactions: Both nations have committed to engaging media personnel and think-tanks with each other to encourage greater understanding and collaboration.
Observation of Diplomatic Anniversaries: Arrangements have been made to observe the 75th anniversary of the two countries establishing diplomatic ties, noting the historic connections and mutual history.
Strategic Implications and Future Outlook
The revival of direct flights and other cooperative efforts mark a new direction in India-China relations. These efforts focus on restoring confidence, increasing economic cooperation, and encouraging cultural exchange. Although border tensions and geopolitics remain sources of concern, the ongoing diplomatic efforts indicate that both sides remain committed to tackling issues through discussions and developing a stable and predictable bilateral relationship.
As both countries chart this course, the rest of the world will be watching closely, aware of the larger stakes for regional stability and global economic trends.
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