India and China Accelerate Plans to Resume Direct Flights and Enhance Bilateral Cooperation

India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, met with Sun Weidong, Vice Foreign Minister of China, during his official visit to India on June 12-13, 2025. The discussions marked ongoing efforts to stabilise and rebuild the bilateral relationship.

The two sides reviewed developments since their last meeting in Beijing on January 27, 2025. Emphasising the importance of engaging with the people at the centre of relations, both reaffirmed their commitment to constructive dialogue and collaboration.

Foreign Secretary Misri appreciated China's cooperation in enabling the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra in 2025. He also highlighted progress made during discussions in April 2025 on the Expert Level Mechanism for trans-border rivers, especially the resumption of hydrological data sharing and related cooperative initiatives.

Both nations agreed to accelerate efforts to restore direct air links. Misri stressed the importance of finalising an updated Air Services Agreement promptly. They also agreed to take practical steps to facilitate visa procedures and encourage exchanges between media organisations and think tanks.

The delegations expressed optimism regarding activities planned for the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and China, and pledged their support for successful execution. Additionally, both parties concurred on the need for continued dialogue, especially in economic and trade sectors, to address and resolve specific bilateral issues.