New Delhi: In a significant diplomatic development, India has welcomed China’s cooperation in resuming the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which had been suspended for years due to strained bilateral relations and the global pandemic. The announcement came following a high-level meeting between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong, who is currently on a two-day official visit to India (June 12–13).
During the meeting, both sides reviewed developments in India-China bilateral ties since their last dialogue held in Beijing on January 27, 2025, and agreed to focus on people-centric initiatives aimed at stabilizing and rebuilding relations between the two countries.
Kailash Yatra Back on Track
Foreign Secretary Misri expressed India’s appreciation for China’s support in facilitating the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage this year — a journey of immense spiritual significance for Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists.
Cross-Border River Cooperation and Hydrological Data Sharing
The discussion also covered cooperation on transboundary rivers, including the sharing of hydrological data crucial for flood forecasting and water resource management. The two sides recalled the April 2025 expert-level talks on this issue and expressed hope for further progress.
Direct Flights and Air Services Agreement
India and China have agreed to accelerate the steps needed to restore direct air connectivity, particularly flights between major cities like New Delhi and Beijing. Foreign Secretary Misri also emphasized the importance of signing an updated bilateral air services agreement at the earliest opportunity.
Visa Facilitation and Cultural Exchange
The two delegations discussed improving visa facilitation, and boosting exchanges between media organizations and think tanks to enhance mutual understanding. They also positively assessed the proposed activities planned for the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and China and agreed to facilitate them jointly.
Focus on Trade and Functional Dialogue
On the economic front, the two sides agreed to resume functional dialogues in various sectors, particularly trade and commerce, to address specific concerns and barriers and find mutually acceptable solutions.
This renewed spirit of cooperation marks an important step in resetting bilateral relations, offering hope for deeper engagement and practical collaboration between the two Asian giants.
