Potential for growth and cooperation is ‘substantial’, analysts say, with resumption of flights likely to boost both countries’ economies
Flights between the two countries were halted during the pandemic in 2020 and, except for a few repatriation flights, never resumed even after New Delhi and Beijing lifted Covid-19 travel restrictions.
Relations between the two countries hit a nadir following a border clash between troops in June 2020 in the Galwan Valley, but in recent months there have been signs of a rapprochement.
India resumed issuing visas to Chinese citizens last month, while China recently reopened access for Indian pilgrims to perform the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra trek.
The journey is regarded as offering salvation by Hindus, and is also considered important in Buddhism and Jainism.
