Sun Aug 31 10:20:55 UTC 2025: **News Article: India and China Aim to Mend Ties, Resume Direct Flights After Years of Strain**
**New Delhi:** In a sign of thawing relations, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping have reaffirmed their commitment to a partnership built on mutual respect and understanding, acknowledging that their differences should not escalate into disputes. This sentiment was echoed during their recent meeting, marking a significant step towards reconciliation after tensions stemming from the 2020 Galwan clashes.
A key outcome of the meeting is the planned resumption of direct flights between India and China, suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. While a specific date was not announced, the move is expected to ease travel and boost people-to-people exchanges. Both leaders also discussed the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and the issuance of tourist visas, both of which had been halted due to the pandemic and have now been reinstated.
Both leaders emphasized the need for strategic autonomy, asserting that their relationship should not be viewed through the lens of a third country, a clear reference to the United States. They agreed to expand common ground on bilateral, regional, and global issues, including terrorism and fair trade on multilateral platforms.
President Jinping emphasized that India and China are friends and good neighbors, stressing their role as significant members of the Global South. He urged both nations to avoid allowing the border issue to define their overall relationship and instead focus on maintaining peace and tranquility.
The improving relations come at a crucial time, as both countries seek to navigate global economic uncertainties. China has pledged to address India’s need for rare earth minerals, fertilizers, and tunnel boring machines. Moreover, both sides have agreed to reopen border trade following foreign minister-level talks. The potential for greater economic cooperation is evident, with the Indian EV sector potentially benefiting from Chinese investment and the Chinese economy potentially benefiting from access to the Indian market.
However, this rapprochement could raise concerns in Washington, D.C., potentially undermining long-standing U.S. efforts to maintain distance between the two Asian giants. The developing partnership between India and China is being closely watched as it has the potential to reshape geopolitical dynamics.
First Piper 