In a significant move aimed at improving India-China relations, the Chinese Embassy in India issued over 85,000 visas to Indian citizens between January 1 and April 9, 2025. This surge in visa approvals reflects China’s renewed focus on strengthening people-to-people ties between the two countries, particularly following the disengagement of troops along the eastern Ladakh border, which marked a cooling of military tensions.

Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong shared this notable development via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “As of April 9, 2025, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in India have issued more than 85,000 visas to Indian citizens travelling to China this year. Welcome more Indian friends to visit China, experience an open, safe, vibrant, sincere and friendly China.” This public statement was part of a broader diplomatic effort to highlight China's commitment to engaging with Indian citizens through tourism, education, and cultural exchanges.

Visa Relaxations and Policy Changes

The rise in the number of Indian citizens receiving Chinese visas is a direct result of several visa policy relaxations introduced by the Chinese government. These new measures aim to simplify the visa application process and encourage more Indian travellers to explore China. Among the notable changes:

• No need for prior online appointments: Applicants can now visit Chinese visa centres directly without needing to make prior appointments online.

• Biometric data exemption: Travellers on short visits are exempt from submitting biometric data, which reduces the time and hassle associated with the visa process.

• Reduced visa fees: The lowering of visa fees has made it more affordable for Indian travellers to visit China, especially for those seeking to explore the country for business, leisure, or cultural experiences.

• Streamlined processing time: The overall visa processing timeline has been shortened, benefiting both business and leisure travellers.

These changes reflect China’s larger strategy to open up its borders to Indian visitors, showcasing its cultural events, seasonal attractions, and scenic destinations as part of a broader soft power initiative.

Strengthening Economic and Trade Relations

Despite the ongoing diplomatic tensions, particularly surrounding the military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the economic relationship between India and China remains strong. The two countries, as the world’s largest developing economies, continue to emphasize the importance of economic cooperation amidst growing global challenges. Yu Jing, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy, pointed out that both nations must collaborate to face global challenges such as the increasing protectionist policies, including U.S. tariffs. “Trade and tariff wars have no winners,” Yu emphasized, urging both countries to uphold multilateralism and reject unilateralism.

This diplomatic message underscores the recognition that while border tensions remain, economic and trade ties offer a mutual benefit that both countries cannot afford to overlook. The visa relaxations thus serve as a symbol of goodwill, reinforcing China’s willingness to engage positively with India in the realms of tourism, education, and business.

Soft Diplomacy and People-to-People Engagement

The significant uptick in visa approvals is seen as part of China's soft power strategy, particularly aimed at rebuilding trust and fostering a more open and cooperative atmosphere between the two nations. The Chinese government seems to be prioritizing cultural diplomacy and people-to-people exchanges as effective means to improve bilateral relations.

In this context, the rise in Indian students travelling to China is especially noteworthy. China has long been a popular destination for Indian students, particularly in fields like medicine, with thousands of Indian students enrolled in Chinese universities. After the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the resumption of student travel has been welcomed by many, as it represents a return to educational cooperation between the two countries. This is seen as a positive step towards restoring bilateral engagement through academic and cultural exchanges.

Moreover, the increase in Indian tourists visiting China can be attributed to the country’s efforts to enhance its cultural offerings and promote its tourist destinations. From the Great Wall of China to the vibrant cultural festivals, China is eager to showcase its rich history and contemporary charm to Indian travellers.

Looking Ahead: The Future of India-China Relations

The easing of visa restrictions and the significant number of Indian citizens receiving visas is an indicator of the Chinese government's broader diplomatic vision for improving ties with India. Even as political challenges remain, cultural and people-to-people diplomacy can play a pivotal role in bridging gaps and creating a foundation for deeper bilateral cooperation.

It is also clear that China sees significant value in strengthening ties with India, as the two countries represent a critical strategic partnership in Asia. Moving forward, both governments will need to focus on managing their differences while expanding their collaborative efforts in trade, education, tourism, and culture.

Conclusion

The issuance of 85,000 visas in just four months marks an important moment in India-China relations. While this diplomatic gesture is part of a larger strategy to enhance people-to-people ties, it also signals a shift towards soft diplomacy. Despite challenges at the political and military levels, this development offers hope that cultural, educational, and tourism exchanges can play a role in promoting peaceful coexistence and collaboration between two of the world's largest economies.

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