India and China are set to restart direct flights between their major cities by late October 2025, marking a key step in thawing their relations. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared this update, saying the move will boost travel and people-to-people ties.
Officials from both countries’ civil aviation teams have held talks all year about bringing back these direct air services and updating their Air Services Agreement. This fits into India’s push for steady improvements in bilateral relations with China.
In a statement, the MEA noted that the flights will align with the winter schedule. Airlines from both sides will decide on commercial details, and everything must meet operational standards. “This will help strengthen exchanges between our peoples and support the gradual normalization of ties,” the MEA added.
The news comes amid positive momentum in India-China relations. Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin. They praised the practical steps both nations have taken, like focusing on dialogue, building trust, and regional cooperation.
This progress stems from a recent deal on patrolling along the 3,500-km Line of Actual Control (LAC), which helped end a tense four-year border standoff. The leaders expressed satisfaction over last year’s troop disengagement and the ongoing peace along the border. They reaffirmed their commitment to a fair resolution of the boundary issue, keeping in mind the big picture of their relationship and the interests of their people. They also backed the latest talks between their Special Representatives.
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited India in September for those boundary discussions. Meeting National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, he stressed how a stable India-China partnership benefits both countries long-term and aligns with hopes from other developing nations. Wang also highlighted Beijing’s keen interest in Modi’s Tianjin trip.
On another front, the long-paused Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra pilgrimage is back on track for summer 2025, adding to the signs of improving ties.
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