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India will resume issuing tourist visas to Chinese citizens starting July 24, the Indian embassy in China announced on Wednesday.
This marks the first time in five years that tourist visas are being granted between the two Asian neighbors amid improving diplomatic ties.
The move signals a thaw in relations following years of tension, especially after the deadly Himalayan border clash in 2020, which severely impacted bilateral relations.
In response to the incident, India had banned numerous Chinese apps, restricted investments, and curtailed travel links.
China had also suspended visas for Indian nationals during the COVID-19 pandemic, only resuming student and business visas in 2022. Tourist visas remained restricted until now.
Reacting to the announcement, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning called it a positive development, expressing hope for further dialogue and stronger people-to-people ties.
Earlier this year, both countries agreed to restore direct air travel, and leaders including President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks during a summit in Russia.
India and China share a 3,800-kilometer disputed border, and though several rounds of negotiations have taken place, a final resolution remains elusive. In July, India’s foreign minister urged China to ease border tensions and trade restrictions to normalize ties.
The resumption of tourist visas is seen as a confidence-building measure that may pave the way for broader diplomatic engagement in the future.
