Resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Will Significantly Catalyse Improvements for India-China Diplomatic Ties, states Chinese Envoy

Resumption of the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra after a five-year hiatus is emerging as a significant catalyst for improving India-China diplomatic ties, with both nations expressing commitment to enhanced bilateral cooperation and the early launch of direct flights between the two countries. Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong emphasized that the pilgrim yatra resumption represents "an important initiative taken by China to improve relations between the two countries." Speaking to The Hindu, the ambassador highlighted that the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025 would provide substantial momentum to India-China ties, marking a positive shift in diplomatic engagement.

The sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which holds deep spiritual significance for Indian pilgrims seeking to visit the holy mountain and lake in Tibet, has become a focal point of India-China diplomacy. The Chinese side has demonstrated its commitment by issuing 85,000 visas for Indians taking on the Kailash Yatra, reflecting tangible improvements in bilateral relations.

Ambassador Xu Feihong confirmed that both governments and major airlines have undertaken extensive preparations for the resumption of direct flights between India and China, expressing optimism that direct flights between the two countries will be launched soon. 
The Kailash Yatra boosting relations initiative comes amid broader diplomatic engagement, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's recent visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit and his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on July 15, where both sides discussed major developmental points.

Addressing border management concerns, the Chinese ambassador indicated that China remains "open and willing to discuss refining border management and control rules to resolve issues around its disputed boundary." He stated that in the next phase, "China is willing to maintain communication with India through diplomatic and military channels, and in the spirit of equal consultations and mutual and equal security, further refine the border area management and control rules and strengthen confidence-building measures."

The ambassador emphasized that the resumption of the Mansarovar Yatra demonstrates both nations' commitment to achieving "sustainable peace and tranquillity in the border areas." This positive approach between the two nations is being viewed as a significant step toward normalizing India-China relations after years of tension.

Regarding regional partnerships, Ambassador Xu addressed questions about China-Pakistan relations, clarifying that "China-Pakistan ties did not target any third party" and that "defence and security cooperation is part of the normal cooperation between China and Pakistan." He welcomed India to join regional initiatives and expressed interest in creating trilateral partnerships with countries in the region.

However, the ambassador also cautioned that any statements from India regarding the Dalai Lama's reincarnation could impact bilateral ties, describing it as China's "internal matter" and warning that such involvement would be perceived as "interference."

The resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra represents more than a religious pilgrimage; it symbolizes a renewed commitment from both India and China to strengthen diplomatic ties and foster regional cooperation. As preparations continue for direct flights and enhanced border management protocols, the journey to Kailash Mansarovar stands as a testament to the potential for improved India-China relations in 2025 and beyond.

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