India resumes tourist visas for Chinese citizens globally
What's the story
India has resumed issuing tourist visas to Chinese nationals across the globe as the two countries strive to normalize relations following a prolonged military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), HT reported. The decision was taken earlier this week but no official announcement has been made yet. This decision comes after a limited resumption in July when China was allowed to apply for tourist visas at select Indian missions.
Historical context
Visa suspension and recent developments
Tourist visas for Chinese nationals were suspended in April-May 2020 amid military tensions along the LAC. The situation escalated with a violent clash in Galwan Valley, which resulted in 20 deaths on the Indian side and at least four on the Chinese side. However, recent months have seen several "people-centric steps" to stabilize ties, including the resumption of direct flights in October and plans to restart the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra next summer.
Diplomatic efforts
High-level meetings and agreements
The thaw in relations was also marked by high-level meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan. After the meeting, the two leaders agreed to revive mechanisms to address the boundary dispute and restore normalcy. Subsequent talks between foreign ministers, national security advisers, and Special Representatives have led to progress in areas such as border trade and economic cooperation.