Amid years of tension, India and China are showing fresh signs of diplomatic thaw. A significant step towards normalizing ties was taken as Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held talks with Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister Sun Weidong in New Delhi on Friday. The discussion focused on strengthening bilateral ties, with special emphasis on restarting direct air services between the two countries.

A Renewed Push for Cooperation

This wasn’t the first attempt at rebuilding strained ties. A similar meeting took place in Beijing earlier in January, where India appreciated China’s cooperation in resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra — a major spiritual journey for Indian pilgrims. During that round of talks, six key points of agreement were reached, including easing the visa process and collaborating on environmental and river data sharing.

Direct Flights Back on the Table

Weidong, who arrived on a two-day visit to India, discussed the swift resumption of direct flights between the two nations. The two sides are expected to finalize a fresh air agreement soon, paving the way for easier travel after years of disruption due to the Galwan conflict and the pandemic.

River Data Sharing Resumes

In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that both sides have agreed to revive the sharing of hydrological data — crucial for managing floods, water resources, and environmental cooperation. This follows expert-level talks held in April 2025.

A Look Back at the Conflict

India-China ties deteriorated sharply in 2020 after a violent clash in Galwan Valley, Eastern Ladakh, which led to a freeze in diplomatic and commercial engagement. Direct flights were suspended, and India also tightened economic ties with China. However, this year marks the 75th anniversary of India-China diplomatic relations, providing both nations with a symbolic opportunity to restart meaningful dialogue.