NewKerala.com

Chinese Envoy "Captivated" by Jaipur as India-China Air Link Restarts

Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong expressed being captivated by Jaipur's culture and architecture during a visit, highlighting a focus on boosting tourism. This comes alongside the significant resumption of direct Air India flights between Shanghai and New Delhi after a nearly six-year suspension. The service, operated with Boeing 787 aircraft four times a week, is seen as a major step in restoring connectivity for trade, tourism, and academic exchanges. Indian Consul General Pratik Mathur emphasized the flight's role in facilitating renewed momentum in bilateral engagement.

Key Points: China Envoy Visits Jaipur, India-China Flights Resume

  • Chinese envoy praises Jaipur's beauty
  • Direct Shanghai-Delhi flights resume after 6 years
  • Air India to operate route 4 times weekly
  • Boost to tourism and people-to-people ties
  • Part of normalising India-China engagement
2 min read

"Captivated," Chinese Envoy to India says on his Jaipur visit

Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong praises Jaipur's beauty as direct Air India flights between Shanghai and Delhi resume after a 6-year gap, boosting bilateral ties.

"There are always moments when I am captivated by India's radiant culture and beautiful architecture - Xu Feihong"

Jaipur, February 21

Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, visited the pink city Jaipur and said he was captivated by its beauty.

The visit hints at a broader approach to boost tourism between both the nations.

In a post on X, he said, "There are always moments when I am captivated by India's radiant culture and beautiful architecture, and Jaipur is undoubtedly one of them."

Earlier on February 1, the Consulate General of India in Shanghai, under the leadership of Consul General Pratik Mathur, warmly welcomed the resumption of Air India's direct flight services between Shanghai and New Delhi, marking a major step forward in restoring people-to-people, business and institutional connectivity between India and China.

According to an official release, the inaugural Shanghai-New Delhi flight departed today from Shanghai Pudong International Airport, carrying over 230 passengers on board the Boeing 787 aircraft. The relaunch comes after a gap of nearly six years and represents a significant milestone in normalising bilateral air connectivity following the suspension of services in early 2020.

Speaking on the occasion, Consul General Pratik Mathur said, "The resumption of direct flights between Shanghai and New Delhi is a tangible expression of the renewed momentum in India-China engagement. Enhanced air connectivity is essential for facilitating trade, tourism, academic exchanges and people-to-people contacts, particularly between India and East China. We are pleased to see Air India restoring this important link."

As per a release, Air India will operate the route four times a week using its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft, featuring modernised cabins and enhanced onboard services. The restored service reflects the growing demand for travel between the two countries and the steady recovery of cross-border mobility. It will also support commercial, educational and cultural exchanges between India and the Yangtze River Delta region, one of China's most economically dynamic clusters.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Appreciate the ambassador's kind words about our heritage. However, genuine friendship needs more than tourism and flights. We need to see tangible progress on resolving the longstanding border issues. That is the foundation for any true "people-to-people" connection.
A
Aman W
Direct flights after 6 years! This is great news for students and professionals. The Shanghai-Delhi route will save so much time and hassle. Hope this leads to more affordable travel options. Our tech and startup communities have much to collaborate on.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has traveled to both countries, this is a positive development. Cultural and economic exchanges are vital. Jaipur is indeed captivating, and I hope more Chinese tourists get to experience India's incredible diversity beyond just the golden triangle.
V
Vikram M
While tourism and connectivity are good, we must be clear-eyed. Engagement should be on equal terms, respecting each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Let's welcome the flights but remain steadfast on our national interests. Jai Hind.
K
Kavya N
My sister is studying in Shanghai! This flight resumption is a big relief for our family. It's a step towards normalcy. Also, proud that our Pink City left such a good impression. Our culture is our soft power. 🙏

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50