Kailash Yatra, River Data And Air Services: India, China Agree To Rebuild Ties With Priority On People-Centric Engagements

India and China on Thursday (13 June) reaffirmed cooperation on key people-centric issues, including the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra and the sharing of hydrological data on trans-border rivers, the Ministry of External Affairs said.

The issues were discussed during a meeting between Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong in New Delhi.

Weidong is on a two-day official visit to India from 12 to 13 June.

This marks the first senior-level diplomatic interaction between the two countries after the Pahalgam terror attack and consequent Operation Sindoor on terror infrastructure inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).

Misri expressed appreciation for China’s support in resuming the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, which had been suspended in recent years due to COVID-19 and bilateral tensions.

The pilgrimage, seen as a key religious and cultural bridge, holds deep significance for Indian devotees.

Misri noted the discussion in the April 2025 meeting of the Expert Level Mechanism for cooperation in trans-border rivers for resumption of provision of hydrological data and other cooperation, and hoped for progress on them.

The two sides agreed to expedite the process to resume direct air connectivity, finalise an updated Air Services Agreement, and improve visa procedures to facilitate smoother travel between the two countries. 

The two sides also agreed to take "practical" steps to enable exchanges between media outlets and think tanks.

They reviewed preparations for commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties and agreed to support related activities. 

In addition, they decided to resume functional dialogues, particularly in the economic and trade sectors, to address outstanding issues.

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