NEW DELHI (Diya TV) — In a sign of improving people-to-people ties, China has issued more than 85,000 visas to Indian nationals between January 1 and April 9, 2025, according to the Chinese Embassy in India. The move highlights China’s efforts to actively promote cross-border exchanges, even as the broader diplomatic relationship between New Delhi and Beijing remains complex.
The embassy, in a statement shared on social media, described the surge in visa issuance as part of its mission to “actively facilitate” travel and deepen connections between the two Asian neighbors. “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,” the statement read.
The Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, also took to the social media platform X to encourage more Indians to explore China, referring to Indian travelers as “friends.” In a recent post, Xu wrote: “Welcome more Indian friends to visit China, experience an open, safe, vibrant, sincere and friendly China.”
The steady rise in visas marks a significant rebound in cross-border movement, signaling that civilian and professional exchanges are regaining momentum after years of disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting travel restrictions.
The visas, according to the embassy, have been issued for a range of purposes including business, tourism, education, work, and family reunions — an indication that the full spectrum of bilateral interactions is gradually returning to normal. For Indian students, particularly those pursuing medical degrees, China has long been a popular destination. Many students had faced disruptions in their studies during the pandemic, and the easing of travel hurdles is now allowing them to resume their academic pursuits.
On the business front, the resurgence in visa approvals may help smooth cooperation in sectors like technology, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. Despite the often uneasy diplomatic climate — including a still unresolved military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) — business ties between the two countries have shown resilience.
In addition to the spike in visas, China has also eased its visa rules for Indian citizens in recent months. Applicants are no longer required to book mandatory online appointments, simplifying the process and reducing wait times. Visa fees have also been lowered, part of what the embassy describes as broader efforts to “welcome more Indian friends” and make travel more accessible.
The trend aligns with China’s growing use of soft power to rebuild trust and goodwill at the grassroots level. As the world gradually resumes pre-pandemic travel patterns, China’s open-door approach is designed to foster cultural diplomacy, encourage tourism, and promote educational and professional exchanges.
Earlier this year, Ambassador Xu Feihong highlighted the positive momentum during a spring announcement, revealing that over 50,000 visas had been issued to Indians as of March. “While flowers blossom in spring, we welcome more Indian friends to visit China and get a first-hand experience of China in spring,” Xu said at the time.
The increase in travel, coupled with these policy relaxations, suggests China is keen to boost direct engagement with Indian citizens. Whether for sightseeing along the Great Wall, business negotiations in Shanghai, or academic lectures in Beijing, the message is clear: China wants Indian travelers back.
While political and military disputes between the two nations remain unresolved, people-to-people diplomacy appears to be making strides — one visa stamp at a time.
