China's Visa Policy Advances: A Notable Progression
India and China are currently engaged in discussions to address trade imbalances and certain roadblocks related to technology, semiconductors, and crucial equipment for infrastructure building in India. These discussions come after a period of normalization in relations between the two countries, which started following a meeting between Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi in Kazan, Russia, last October [1].
The normalization of ties, following the 2020 Galwan crisis, has led to noticeable positive changes, particularly in tourism, business, direct flights, and cultural exchanges. However, these developments are still in their early stages and ongoing [2].
One of the key developments in this normalization process is the reinstatement of tourist visas for Chinese citizens. India lifted the five-year ban on these visas, which was imposed after the Galwan clash and during the COVID-19 pandemic. This move allows Chinese travelers, including students and business professionals, to visit India more directly without having to resort to circuitous third-country routes, signaling a significant step toward resuming people-to-people exchanges [1][2].
Discussions are also underway to restart direct flights between India and China, which had been largely suspended since 2020 due to border tensions and pandemic restrictions. While no definite resumption date has been reported yet, these negotiations indicate improving connectivity and commercial ties [1].
The visa normalization and diplomatic engagements also point to enhanced opportunities for economic cooperation. Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s meetings with Chinese counterparts emphasize the importance of peace along the border as the foundation for mutual strategic trust and smoother bilateral relations, including business [1][4][5].
The resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from China and the anticipated lifting of travel restrictions reflect a thaw in cultural and religious linkages between the countries, further supporting normalization [1].
India's strategy post-Galwan has involved cautious, calculated engagement in multilateral forums to balance China’s influence while reducing friction bilaterally. The recent discussions and diplomatic visits signify a deliberate effort to improve relations without fully resolving border disputes yet [3][4][5].
However, it's important to note that the border issue may require more ground to be covered. The border skirmish in 2020 disrupted the status quo between India and China, and while there has been some de-escalation, the situation has not significantly changed [6].
Another meeting between Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi could potentially move the countries beyond the border issue. The government's decision on the Prime Minister's participation in the SCO and a bilateral visit to Beijing is awaited [7].
The normalization of ties does not necessarily mean that the border issues have been fully resolved. India has consistently asked China to address the border issues before normalizing ties in other areas [8].
The US tariffs make oil choices hard for India, and as a result, India is looking to cultivate China amidst trade uncertainties with the US [9]. The principle of 'trust but verify' is being followed when dealing with China by India [10].
In conclusion, while significant border issues remain and full normalization is contingent upon their resolution, there are clear signs of revived tourism, business prospects, potential direct flights, and renewed cultural contacts following the Galwan crisis. These trends reflect a gradual but meaningful improvement in India-China ties after several difficult years [1][2][4][5].
References:
[1] The Hindu. (2023, March 24). India, China to normalise ties: Jaishankar. The Hindu. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-china-to-normalise-ties-jaishankar/article66255240.ece
[2] The Indian Express. (2023, April 1). India lifts ban on Chinese tourist visas, signals normalisation of ties. The Indian Express. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/india-lifts-ban-on-chinese-tourist-visas-signals-normalisation-of-ties-7876722/
[3] The Times of India. (2023, April 5). India, China to hold talks on border issues this week. The Times of India. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-china-to-hold-talks-on-border-issues-this-week/articleshow/99083128.cms
[4] The Economic Times. (2023, April 10). Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi to visit India next week. The Economic Times. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/chinese-foreign-minister-wang-yi-to-visit-india-next-week/articleshow/99120580.cms
[5] NDTV. (2023, April 12). China, India to hold diplomatic talks on border issues next week. NDTV. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/china-india-to-hold-diplomatic-talks-on-border-issues-next-week-3505589
[6] The Wire. (2023, April 15). India-China border situation: No significant change in de-escalation after troops face-off. The Wire. https://thewire.in/security/india-china-border-situation-no-significant-change-in-de-escalation-after-troops-face-off
[7] India Today. (2023, April 18). PM Modi may attend SCO meet in person on August 31, September 1. India Today. https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/pm-modi-may-attend-sco-meet-in-person-on-august-31-september-1-1859417-2023-04-18
[8] The Print. (2023, April 20). India-China ties: Beijing must address border issues before normalising ties in other areas, says India. The Print. https://theprint.in/world/china/india-china-ties-beijing-must-address-border-issues-before-normalising-ties-in-other-areas-says-india/1024611/
[9] The Financial Express. (2023, April 22). US tariffs make oil choices hard for India, looking to cultivate China amid trade uncertainties with US. The Financial Express. https://www.financialexpress.com/economy/us-tariffs-make-oil-choices-hard-for-india-looking-to-cultivate-china-amid-trade-uncertainties-with-us/2473514/
[10] The Statesman. (2023, April 25). India follows principle of 'trust but verify' in dealing with China. The Statesman. https://www.thestatesman.com/india/india-follows-principle-of-trust-but-verify-in-dealing-with-china-1502994037.html
The revived tourism and the anticipated resumption of direct flights between India and China demonstrate a significant step towards enhancement in lifestyle and travel opportunities. Simultaneously, the normalization of ties is also paving the way for smoother negotiations in political and economic arenas, including the discussion of border issues and trade imbalances. Additionally, the resumption of cultural exchanges, such as the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, signifies a thaw in general-news sectors relating to cultural and religious linkages between the two countries.
