Beijing/Delhi, July 23 (HS): India will begin issuing tourist visas to Chinese citizens starting July 24, marking the first time in five years. This decision follows a suspension of tourist visas in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Indian Embassy in Beijing announced that Chinese nationals can apply online, schedule appointments, and submit necessary documents at Indian Visa Application Centers located in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The embassy clarified that withdrawal requests must include a passport withdrawal letter.

Following the 2020 Galwan clashes, travel between India and China faced significant disruptions, compounded by diplomatic tensions. While China has gradually resumed visas for Indian students and businessmen, travel remained restricted. Recent diplomatic and military discussions have led to troop withdrawals along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh and a disengagement pact covering the last friction points.

In April, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar indicated progress in normalizing ties. The resumption of tourist visas is seen as a positive step, with both nations expressing a commitment to enhancing personnel exchanges. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Guo Jiakun welcomed the development and expressed a willingness to engage in further dialogue with India. The resumption aligns with mutual interests, indicating a collaborative approach moving forward.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar