China Has Issued 85,000 Visas To Indians In Three Months

In a move to improve the ties between the two nations, China has issued more than 85,000 visas to Indians since the beginning of this year.

The Chinese Embassy in India said the move was part of its efforts to ‘actively facilitate’ cross-border exchanges.

The visas issued to Indians reflect a renewed commitment between the two countries to promote cultural, educational, business, and tourism exchanges, even as broader diplomatic relations continue to remain rough.

The Chinese Embassy said that the visas were issued for various purposes — like improving business, tourism, work, education and family reunions.

The rise in visa issuance also indicates a revival of bilateral movement between the two nations after years of disruption caused by Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent restrictions on the movement between the nations.

The Chinese Embassy, in a statement, shared on social media said:

“Since the beginning of 2024, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates-General in India have actively facilitated people-to-people exchanges between the two countries. As of April 9, more than 85,000 visas have been issued to Indian citizens. We look forward to see more Indian friends travel to China for sightseeing, business, study, work and family visits.”

The rise in visas is also a part of broader efforts to revive China-India people-to-people diplomacy, specially through education and tourism.

Indian students have since long been pursuing medical degrees in China.

The readiness in issuing visas may help promote cultural diplomacy, rebuild trust at the grassroots level, while the higher officials focus on resolving border issues and other trade imbalances.