The Chinese Embassy in India has announced that over 85,000 visas have been issued to Indian citizens between January 1 and April 9, following recent visa relaxations aimed at enhancing cross-border exchanges between the two nations.
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“As of April 9, 2025, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in India have issued more than 85,000 visas to Indian citizens traveling to China this year,” Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong stated on social media platform X on Saturday, April 12. “Welcome more Indian friends to visit China, experience an open, safe, vibrant, sincere and friendly China.”
The embassy added that the move is part of its continued efforts to actively facilitate travel between the two countries. Visas have been issued across various categories, including business, tourism, education, employment, and family visits. The announcement also signals a steady resumption of people-to-people engagement between India and China, which was disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic and diplomatic challenges.
Notably, travel between the two countries was restricted over the past few years. Indian travellers faced prolonged visa suspensions, increased documentation requirements, and quarantine protocols.
The embassy emphasised its interest in encouraging Indian citizens to visit China for multiple purposes and expressed optimism about strengthening cultural, educational, and business ties.
Relatedly, amid broader global trade tensions, a Chinese Embassy spokesperson on Tuesday reportedly said that India and China should work together to counter unilateral trade measures such as tariffs imposed by the United States. Stressing the value of mutual benefit and multilateralism, the spokesperson said the two countries must jointly oppose all forms of protectionism.
