Direct flights between India and China are back in operation, signaling a welcome improvement in relations between the two Asian giants. The first IndiGo flight, numbered 6E 1703, recently departed from Kolkata and successfully landed in Guangzhou, China, carrying approximately 180 passengers. This event marks a key moment in the gradual warming of diplomatic relations.
These vital air routes were initially suspended in early 2020 due to the global Covid-19 pandemic. The resumption of services had been further complicated by heightened tensions following a deadly border clash in the Himalayas. However, both nations have been actively working towards normalizing their relationship, highlighted by a significant agreement on border patrols reached last year.
The Indian government has expressed optimism that the re-establishment of direct flights will foster greater people-to-people connections and contribute to the overall normalization of bilateral exchanges. This development follows a series of positive steps, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China and discussions between high-ranking officials from both countries. India has also resumed issuing visas to Chinese tourists, further easing travel and interaction.
The restart of these flights is anticipated to significantly reduce travel times between the two nations, a sentiment echoed by passengers like Krishna Goyal, who noted the previous necessity of multiple layovers. The upcoming launch of China Eastern Airlines flights between Shanghai and Delhi is expected to further strengthen these crucial links.
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