India and China Agree to Resume Direct Flights After Nearly Five Years, Boosting Diplomatic and Economic Ties
India and China have agreed to resume direct flights between the two nations after nearly five years. This decision marks a significant step towards improving diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries. The resumption of direct flights is expected to boost tourism, trade, and business exchanges, enhancing connectivity and facilitating smoother exchanges for business and tourism.
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The agreement to resume flights comes after a series of high-level talks and diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions and improving bilateral relations. The direct flights were suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing border disputes, particularly the Galwan Valley skirmish in May 2020, which resulted in the loss of 20 Indian soldiers.The resumption of flights will have a significant impact on the global travel industry. As two of the world's most populous and economically influential countries, the ability to move people between them more easily will boost tourism, business, and trade. This move is expected to increase competition for airlines that have served as intermediaries, such as those from Singapore, Hong Kong, and Thailand.In addition to the resumption of direct flights, India and China have also agreed to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a significant religious pilgrimage for many Indians, which was also suspended due to the pandemic and border tensions.
