Xi in India for BRICS! Direct Flights Restart, Signaling Cautious Thaw in Ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in New Delhi to attend the 18th BRICS Summit, marking his first visit to India in seven years. This high-profile visit is setting the stage for a crucial bilateral engagement with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam, as both nations navigate a cautious rapprochement after years of military confrontation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The arrival of President Xi coincides with several significant developments signaling a gradual thaw in the often-strained India-China relationship. Among the most notable is the resumption of direct flights between the two countries. China Southern Airlines has recommenced its Delhi-Guangzhou direct flights after a six-year hiatus, following similar moves by other Chinese carriers like Air China and China Eastern earlier this year.

Beyond aviation, both sides have taken steps to restore travel and business links.

Beijing has eased visa restrictions for Indian business professionals and tourists, streamlining entry procedures and reducing processing fees.

Concurrently, New Delhi has cautiously relaxed business visa processing for essential Chinese technical personnel, a move crucial for Indian manufacturing units, particularly in electronics and solar components, to maintain their supply chain operations. The focus of bilateral engagements has also expanded, shifting from solely military-level border talks to broader multilateral and trade discussions.

Meetings on the sidelines of platforms like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and the BRICS Summit have helped to anchor the political dialogue. Despite these positive indicators, differences over the border and economic issues still persist. However, China has expressed its intent to "properly handle differences" and foster mutual cooperation, as articulated by its envoy ahead of President Xi's visit.

This careful dance reflects a shared interest in stabilizing relations while acknowledging ongoing challenges.

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