India Eases Visa Restrictions to Strengthen Economic Ties with China

India has expedited business visas for Chinese professionals, reducing approval times to under a month, to enhance economic ties and address production setbacks. This decision comes amid improved diplomatic relations with China following increased U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, signaling a shift in India's diplomatic strategy.

India has taken a significant step to rejuvenate its economic ties with China by cutting red tape that previously delayed business visas for Chinese professionals. Two officials revealed that India has streamlined the visa approval process, slashing approval times to under a month. This move is part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's strategy to mend relations with Beijing amid escalating U.S. tariffs on Indian products.

For nearly three years, India had imposed stringent restrictions on Chinese visits after a 2020 border clash. This included expanding visa vetting beyond the home and foreign ministries. The recent policy shift eliminates an administrative layer, accelerating visa processing and resolving long-standing issues, an official confirmed. Major Chinese electronics firms, previously hampered by visa bottlenecks, view this change favorably as it paves the way for greater business expansion in India.

Following Modi's visit to China, and discussions with President Xi Jinping, the easing of curbs also facilitated the resumption of direct flights between the two nations. This development, driven by a high-level committee, aligns with India's broader goal of attracting foreign investment by refining the ease of business operations. Concurrently, India is recalibrating its diplomatic stance, maintaining strong ties with Russia, while negotiating trade terms with the U.S.

(With inputs from agencies.)