India Reopens Tourist Visas for Chinese Citizens, Signaling Warming Ties

India is set to resume issuing tourist visas to Chinese citizens beginning July 24, marking the first time in five years for such a move, according to an announcement from its embassy in China on Wednesday.

The relations between the two nations have been tense since a 2020 military skirmish along their contested Himalayan border, prompting India to restrict Chinese investments, ban numerous Chinese apps, and limit air travel. China also stopped issuing visas to Indian nationals and other foreigners during the COVID-19 pandemic but lifted these restrictions in 2022 by allowing student and business visas. It wasn't until March this year that tourist visa restrictions for Indian nationals were also eased, coinciding with the resumption of direct flights.

While India and China share a 3,800 km border that has been a point of contention since the 1950s, recent diplomatic engagements — including discussions between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi — have aimed at de-escalating tensions. India's foreign minister has emphasized the importance of resolving border disputes and avoiding restrictive trade practices to fully normalize relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)