In a significant development for bilateral relations, India has expanded the scope of its tourist visa resumption for Chinese citizens, now allowing applications at Indian diplomatic missions worldwide. This policy shift underscores a gradual easing of tensions that followed the protracted military stand-off on the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
The initial phase of tourist visa reinstatement, which began in July, was limited to applications submitted through Indian facilities in just four specific Chinese cities. However, the broader global reopening, implemented discreetly this past week, signifies a further step towards normalcy. Visa services for Chinese nationals had been halted since 2020, a consequence of the border clashes and the tragic Galwan Valley incident that marked a low point in India-China relations for decades.
Individuals privy to these developments suggest that India and China have mutually agreed upon a series of “people-centric initiatives” aimed at stabilizing their relationship. Direct flights, dormant since early 2020, were reactivated in October. Additionally, both nations have committed to reviving the pilgrimage to Kailash Manasarovar in Tibet, improving visa processing for a wider range of travelers, and marking the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties with joint activities.
These facilitated exchanges are designed to encourage greater interaction between the populations of both countries, as per the guidance from their respective leaderships. The push for normalization gained momentum following an agreement in October 2024 concerning the disengagement of troops along the LAC. Subsequently, leaders met and resolved to revive various bilateral channels to address long-standing disagreements, including the territorial dispute.
Following these high-level discussions, foreign ministers, defense officials, and special representatives from both sides have held productive talks. These meetings have led to accords on resuming cooperation in areas such as border trade and economic partnerships. China has also started responding to India’s trade-related issues, including restrictions affecting the export of critical rare earth minerals. This series of reciprocal actions indicates a careful yet determined effort to mend and strengthen one of Asia’s most crucial diplomatic relationships.