India, China Resume Direct Flights After Four Years, Signal Ties Reset

India and China have agreed to resume direct flights suspended since early 2020, marking a significant step in normalizing ties following the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. This announcement came during a series of meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Tianjin, highlighting a mutual commitment to peace, stability, and cooperation along the border. Both leaders emphasized that differences should not escalate into disputes and agreed on the importance of mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity in advancing bilateral relations. Additionally, they agreed to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and discussed enhancing trade, investment, and counter-terrorism cooperation. The talks also included an agreement on border management, although operational details regarding flight schedules and other arrangements are still being finalized. Modi invited Xi to the 2026 BRICS Summit in India, indicating a willingness to deepen regional collaboration and economic ties.