New Delhi:Sometimes the pandemic blocked the way to the sky, and sometimes the increased tension on the border further increased the distance between the two countries. But now after about six years, a new twist appears to be coming in the story of air connectivity between India and China. Ahead of the arrival of Chinese President Xi Jinping in India, China Southern Airlines has announced the resumption of regular passenger flight service between Guangzhou-New Delhi.
According to the airline, regular flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi will start from September 21. The return of this air route, which was closed for almost six years, is being seen as an important sign of the gradual return of normal activities in India-China relations.
The pandemic had slowed down the pace of flights
In the year 2020, the Corona epidemic had slowed down the entire world. There were restrictions on international flights and direct air connectivity between India and China was also affected. After this, the violent clash in Galwan Valley in June 2020 further increased the tension in the relations between the two countries. The situation became such that despite the lifting of Corona restrictions, regular direct passenger flights between the two countries could not be restored as before.
Now two cities will be connected again
This announcement by China Southern Airlines is expected to ease the movement of people between the two countries. According to the airline, after the resumption of services, it will operate more than 100 flights every week on its eight routes to and from South Asia. Opening of direct flights can provide relief to businessmen, tourists, students and travelers traveling between the two countries. Besides, trade and tourism are also expected to gain momentum.
Flying in the sky, a new turn in relationships?
The plane, which is going to fly again between Guangzhou and New Delhi after nearly six years of silence, will not just be a means of transporting passengers from one country to another. With this, a new link of contact, trade and movement also seems to be added between the two countries. This return of air connectivity amidst border tension and diplomatic challenges is being considered as a sign that the windows of communication and contact are gradually opening again at the practical level in the relations between India and China.