India-China Flights Resumption: A New Dawn in Bilateral Relations

India and China are set to resume direct flights after a five-year hiatus, a move marking a step towards normalizing strained ties due to the Ladakh border standoff. This decision comes following dialogues at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit and aims to foster economic collaboration and connectivity.

After a five-year hiatus, India and China are poised to reignite direct flight connections by the end of this month. This initiative marks a significant milestone in mending relations strained by the Ladakh border dispute. Announced by India's Ministry of External Affairs, the revival aims to boost ties between the two nations.

The suspension of flights in 2020 due to the pandemic and prolonged border tensions was lifted following improved diplomatic engagement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at a recent summit. The move signifies efforts to return to normalized exchanges and facilitate people-to-people contact.

As part of broader bilateral efforts, the reinstatement of these air services is expected to enhance connectivity, fostering economic collaboration and strengthening people-to-people connections. Both nations are working towards satisfying operational criteria to make this transition successful.

(With inputs from agencies.)