Tue Nov 19 15:08:29 UTC 2024: ## India and China Signal Improved Ties, Discuss Flight Resumption and Pilgrimage

**Rio de Janeiro, Brazil** – India and China have signaled a significant thaw in their relationship, with both countries agreeing to explore the resumption of direct flights and the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. The announcement follows a meeting between Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro.

The meeting, the first high-level engagement since the completion of the disengagement process in eastern Ladakh, marked a positive step forward in bilateral relations. Both ministers acknowledged the positive contribution of the disengagement to maintaining peace and tranquility in the region.

Direct flights between India and China were suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, a significant religious journey for Hindus, was also halted. Both were impacted by the broader deterioration in relations following a border clash in Galwan Valley in June 2020.

The MEA stated that the resumption of flights and the pilgrimage, alongside increased data sharing on trans-border rivers and media exchanges, were key discussion points. Minister Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to a multipolar world and its consistent, principled foreign policy. He noted that India and China share both differences and convergences, cooperating constructively in various international forums.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian described the relationship as being at “a new starting point,” highlighting the recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping. Mr. Jian emphasized the need for both sides to build trust through dialogue, manage differences, and work towards a stable and healthy relationship. The statement stressed respecting each other’s core interests and concerns, and resolving differences sincerely. The renewed focus on cooperation suggests a potential de-escalation in tensions between the two Asian giants.

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