India and China resume direct flights as ties improve after 5-year suspension

South China Morning PostCenterEN 1 min read 100% complete by Agence France-PresseOctober 26, 2025 at 10:19 PM

AI Summary

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India and China resumed direct flights on Sunday after a five-year suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic and geopolitical tensions. The first flight, IndiGo 6E1703 from Kolkata, landed in Guangzhou just before 4am. Both nations are strategic rivals but have gradually eased ties since a deadly border clash in 2020. India's government stated that resuming flights will enhance people-to-people contact and aid the normalization of bilateral exchanges. The move is significant for trade and symbolizes improved relations between Asia’s two most populous countries. This development occurs as India faces strained ties with its key trade partner, the United States, following tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump.

Key Topics & Entities

Russia 30% US 40% Donald Trump ×250% Guangzhou 60% Kolkata 60% IndiGo 80% India ×4100% China ×3100%

Keywords

india and china 100% direct flights 90% trade relations 80% geopolitical tensions 70% regional influence 70% us tariffs 60% himalayan border clash 60% russia's war in ukraine 50% people-to-people contact 50%