India and China Resume Direct Flights After Over Five Years of Break
After more than five years of suspension caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and escalating diplomatic tensions, the two largest and most populous nations in Asia — India and China — are finally reconnecting through direct flight routes.
This move not only signifies a step towards restoring regular travel and communication between the countries but also symbolizes a broader effort to rebuild mutual trust and strengthen bilateral relations.
The announcement of resuming direct flights was made during a recent meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, held on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin.The suspension of flights originated in 2020 amid the global health crisis and was further complicated by border clashes and diplomatic conflicts.
Since then, travelers were forced to use layovers in hubs like Hong Kong or Singapore, adding inconvenience and costs for tourists and business travelers alike.In his remarks, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the world is on the cusp of significant transformation, and reopening air travel links is a reflection of a new era of cooperation and mutual understanding.
He highlighted that China and India are two of the most influential countries globally, both being the most populous and vital members of the Global South.
Modi called for friendly relations: “We are modern civilizations, and establishing dialogue and cooperation is crucial for our shared prosperity.
The Dragon and the Elephant — symbols of our great nations — should unite as one team.
Being good neighbors is key, because only together can we reach new heights.”This was Modi’s first visit to China in seven years.
The re-establishment of air routes is part of broader diplomatic negotiations.
Earlier this month, the foreign ministers of both countries met in New Delhi and agreed to boost trade and investments, with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi describing the progress as a ‘mutually respectful’ approach.The restart of flights takes place amid geopolitical tensions, notably, the United States imposing a 50% tariff on Indian goods due to Indian purchases of Russian oil.
Nevertheless, China and the U.S.
have agreed to extend their trade truce, offering some relief amid ongoing global uncertainties.Indian airlines like IndiGo have already expressed readiness to resume flights, with Air India expected to join soon, signaling a major shift in the country’s civil aviation landscape.The developments are also connected to recent diplomatic exchanges, including a phone call between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister Modi, emphasizing the importance of ceasefire and stability.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has visited China on a four-day trip, indicating an increase in regional diplomatic activity aimed at stabilizing and advancing international dialogues.