India and China are taking steps to restore normalcy in their bilateral relations by agreeing to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and direct flights between the two countries. This development follows Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s two-day visit to Beijing on January 26-27.
Misri’s visit was part of the Foreign Secretary-Vice Foreign Minister mechanism. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the discussions aligned with an agreement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping during their October meeting in Kazan. The two sides evaluated the current state of their relationship and focused on people-centric measures to rebuild trust and cooperation.
As part of the talks, both nations agreed to restart the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in the summer of 2025. However, further discussions will be held to finalize the details of this arrangement through established mechanisms.
India and China to Resume Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
India and China have decided to restart the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which has been on hold since 2020. The decision was reached during a meeting between Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the modalities for resuming the yatra will be discussed through the existing mechanisms. Additionally, both sides agreed to hold an early meeting of the India-China Expert Level Mechanism to address the sharing of hydrological data and enhance cooperation on trans-border rivers.
The two nations also agreed, in principle, to resume direct flights and promote people-to-people exchanges, focusing on interactions between media and think tanks.
During the talks, both sides reviewed the existing mechanisms for bilateral exchanges and agreed to gradually resume these dialogues. The discussions also addressed specific economic and trade concerns, aiming to resolve issues and foster long-term policy clarity and predictability, the MEA noted.
Also Read: US Supreme Court Approves Extradition of 26/11 Accused Tahawwur Rana to India
Vikram Misri’s Two-Day Visit to China
India’s Deputy National Security Advisor, Vikram Misri, is on a two-day trip to Beijing to attend an important meeting under the Foreign Secretary-Vice Minister mechanism. This meeting is a platform for India and China to discuss various aspects of their relationship.
Purpose of the Visit
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) explained that this mechanism was restarted following an agreement between the top leaders of both nations. The goal is to take steps toward improving India-China relations in key areas such as politics, trade, and cultural exchanges.
India’s Stand on Relations with China
India has made it clear that a normal relationship with China can only happen if peace is maintained in the border areas. Border stability is a priority for India, and it strongly believes that unresolved issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) hinder progress in bilateral ties.
Progress in Border Areas
Recently, both India and China successfully completed the disengagement process in the sensitive areas of Demchok and Depsang. This means that military troops from both sides have moved back to reduce tensions in these regions.
After nearly four-and-a-half years, Indian and Chinese forces have also resumed patrolling activities in these areas. This development is seen as a positive step toward restoring trust and reducing hostilities along the border.
This visit by Vikram Misri is expected to further explore solutions to existing challenges while focusing on strengthening political, economic, and cultural cooperation between the two countries.
Also Read: Government Assures No Need for Concern Over HMPV After 3 Reported Cases
FAQs
Q.1. What is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and why was it halted?
Ans. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake, suspended since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and border tensions.
Q.2. When will the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra resume?
Ans. India and China have agreed to restart the Yatra in the summer of 2025. Further discussions will finalize the arrangement.
Q.3. What is the Foreign Secretary-Vice Minister mechanism?
Ans. It is a platform for India and China to discuss bilateral relations, addressing issues like border stability, trade, and cultural cooperation.
Q.4. Are direct flights between India and China resuming?
Ans. Yes, both countries have agreed in principle to restart direct flights, facilitating improved connectivity and people-to-people exchanges.
Q.5. What steps are being taken to improve India-China relations?
Ans. India and China are resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights, hydrological data sharing, and bilateral dialogue to strengthen trust and cooperation.
