Beijing, July 23 – China on Wednesday welcomed India’s decision to resume issuing tourist visas to Chinese nationals, calling it a positive step towards easing cross-border travel and improving bilateral engagement.
In a statement posted on X, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, “We take note of India’s resumption of tourist visas for Chinese citizens. This is a positive move. Easing cross-border travel is widely beneficial.” The ministry added that China would continue to maintain communication with India to further enhance travel ties.
India will officially resume tourist visa services for Chinese citizens from July 24, as reported by Reuters.
Relations between the two Asian powers have been gradually improving after facing significant setbacks since the deadly 2020 military clash in Ladakh. Following the skirmish, India imposed restrictions on Chinese investments, banned Chinese apps, and suspended direct flights. In return, China halted the issuance of visas to Indian citizens.
While China reopened business and student visas in 2022, tourist visas for Indian citizens remained limited until early 2024. Direct air travel also resumed earlier this year.
Despite continued tensions over the 3,800 km-long disputed border, both sides have held multiple rounds of military and diplomatic talks. Recently, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar stressed the need for de-escalation and troop withdrawal to normalize relations.
On Wednesday, Chinese MFA spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasized that Beijing is committed to “constantly improving the level of personal exchanges between the two countries.”