New Delhi/Beijing, Oct 2 (NationPress) The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced that direct air services between designated locations in India and China are set to resume by late October 2025.

Since the beginning of this year, the civil aviation authorities of both nations have been in technical discussions regarding the resumption of these direct flights and a revised Air Services Agreement. This initiative is part of the Indian government's strategy to gradually restore relations with China.

According to a statement from the MEA, "Direct air services connecting designated points in India and China can recommence by late October 2025, aligning with the winter schedule, pending commercial decisions by the designated carriers and fulfillment of all operational criteria."

The MEA added that this agreement will enhance people-to-people interactions between India and China, furthering the normalization of bilateral exchanges.

Last month, during a meeting in Tianjin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized a pragmatic approach that prioritizes dialogue, confidence-building measures, and regional engagement.

The discussions aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and build upon recent advancements in India-China ties.

Progress in dialogue was facilitated by both parties reaching an agreement on patrolling protocols along the 3,500-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC), which helped ease a four-year border standoff.

"Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the successful disengagement last year and the ongoing peace and tranquility along the border. They reaffirmed their commitment to a fair resolution of boundary issues, rooted in the broader context of their bilateral relationship and the long-term interests of their populations. They acknowledged the significant decisions made by their Special Representatives earlier this month and agreed to continue supporting their initiatives," stated the MEA following the meeting.

In September, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited India for Special Representatives talks on the boundary question, emphasizing the importance of PM Modi's visit to Tianjin.

During his discussion with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Wang Yi remarked, "History shows that a healthy and stable China-India relationship is essential for the fundamental interests of both nations, something all developing countries aspire to achieve."

Earlier, the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, which had been suspended for an extended period, was reinstated for the summer of 2025.