India-China Flights Set to Soar Again: A Diplomatic Lift-Off

India and China are finalizing negotiations to restart direct flight services, suspended since 2020 due to the pandemic and border tensions. This follows recent efforts to mend ties, including India's resumption of tourist visas for Chinese nationals. The development coincides with Narendra Modi's planned visit for the SCO summit.

India and China are in the 'advanced stage' of negotiations to resume direct flight services, a move that could signify warming relations between the two countries, according to sources on Tuesday.

The potential resumption of flights, halted in 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and border tensions, coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's anticipated visit to China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Tianjin later this month.

The negotiations aim to establish a new air services agreement, though existing frameworks may be employed if necessary. Meanwhile, Air India is being prepared for a possible recommencement of flights as India recently reissued tourist visas to Chinese nationals.

(With inputs from agencies.)