Between January 1 and April 9, 2025, the Chinese Embassy in India has issued over 85,000 visas to Indian citizens, marking a major step in reviving cultural and diplomatic ties. Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong shared the news via a post on X, saying,
“Welcome more Indian friends to visit China, experience an open, safe, vibrant, sincere and friendly China.”
This move is seen as a strategic soft power gesture amid ongoing global trade uncertainties.
New Visa Relaxations for Indian Travelers
To make travel easier and more accessible, China has introduced several visa-related relaxations for Indian applicants:
- No Online Appointment Needed: Applicants can now directly walk into visa centers without prior bookings.
- Biometric Exemption: Short-term travelers are exempt from giving biometric data.
- Lower Visa Fees: The cost of applying for a Chinese visa has been significantly reduced.
- Faster Processing: Quicker approval timelines benefit both tourists and business travelers.
- Tourism Boost: China is actively promoting its seasonal attractions and festivals to Indian tourists.
Trump’s Tariff Threats and China’s Response
U.S. President Donald Trump continues to make aggressive tariff statements, especially targeting China. In response, Chinese Embassy spokesperson Yu Jing highlighted the mutual benefit of India-China economic relations, stating:
“Trade and tariff wars have no winners. The two largest developing countries should stand together to overcome these challenges.”
She emphasized the importance of multilateralism over unilateral actions, urging both nations to deepen cooperation.
A Soft Power Strategy to Rebuild Trust
Despite ongoing military tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), this surge in visa approvals is being seen as a soft diplomacy effort. It signals China’s willingness to rebuild trust and goodwill with India — not just at a government level but among citizens too.
Strengthening People-to-People Ties
The rise in visa approvals also enables Indian students, many of whom pursue medical education in China, to resume their studies post-pandemic. Additionally, the renewed focus on business, tourism, and educational exchanges shows a strong commitment to nurturing people-to-people relationships between the two Asian giants.