The Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, shared that more than 85,000 visas have already been issued to Indian citizens this year, as of April 9, 2025. This comes in the wake of recent changes that have made it easier for Indian travelers to visit China. In a post online, he encouraged more Indian visitors to experience China, describing the country as open, safe, vibrant, sincere, and friendly.
Several adjustments have been made to simplify the travel process. Indian applicants are no longer required to schedule appointments in advance, which has made the visa application more accessible and less time-consuming. For short-term visits, the need to provide biometric data has been waived, helping streamline the procedure further. Visa fees have been reduced, making travel more affordable, and faster processing times mean travelers can receive their approvals more quickly. These changes come alongside active efforts by China to promote tourism from India, with an emphasis on seasonal events and cultural experiences.
Travel between India and China had seen significant disruption over the past few years, largely due to pandemic-related restrictions and broader diplomatic tensions. At one point, visa issuance was paused, and strict entry requirements were in place, including additional paperwork, quarantine rules, and limited availability. The recent changes mark a shift toward easing those barriers.
In the context of broader economic relations, the Chinese Embassy has also spoken on global trade tensions, particularly in light of tariffs imposed by the United States. A spokesperson emphasized that India and China, as two major developing nations, should work together to navigate these challenges. The message highlighted that their economic relationship is grounded in mutual benefit, and that cooperation is essential in the face of protectionist policies. The spokesperson also stressed the importance of multilateralism, open dialogue, and collective resistance to unilateral trade measures.
