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India and China to Resume Flights and Border Trade
India and China have agreed to restart direct passenger flights between the two countries. The decision was announced during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to New Delhi. Air services were suspended in 2020 following the Galwan Valley clash and pandemic restrictions, leaving business and student communities dependent on third-country transit routes.
Border Trade to Reopen at Key Passes
Both sides also agreed to reopen border trade through three major mountain passes: Lipulekh in Uttarakhand, Shipki La in Himachal Pradesh, and Nathu La in Sikkim. The reopening is expected to help revive local economies in border regions and restore trade flows that had been disrupted for years.
Supplies and Economic Cooperation
China assured India that it would lift curbs on critical exports, including fertilizers, rare earths, and tunnel boring machines. These commodities are important for India’s agriculture, infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors. Officials said the move is intended to build confidence and address supply chain concerns.
Border Dialogue and Stability Mechanisms
The two countries also agreed to create fresh mechanisms to strengthen border management and reduce tensions along the Line of Actual Control. These steps will complement ongoing Special Representatives’ talks aimed at disengagement of troops in sensitive sectors. Leaders on both sides acknowledged that improving ties is essential for regional stability and long-term peace.
