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NEW DELHI: Indian diplomatic missions and consulates worldwide have now reopened tourist visa applications for Chinese nationals, marking progress in bilateral relations following the resolution of military tensions in eastern Ladakh.Tourist visas for Chinese citizens, which were halted during the military confrontation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh starting May 2020, resumed in July this year.PTI sources revealed on Friday that Indian embassies and consulates globally began accepting tourist visa applications from Chinese nationals earlier this week.The initial phase of visa resumption saw applications being processed at Indian diplomatic facilities in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hong Kong.Recent months have witnessed both nations implementing various citizen-focused initiatives to strengthen bilateral relations.These initiatives include the restoration of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, reestablishment of direct flights, celebrations of 75 years of diplomatic relations, and improved visa procedures.Direct air connectivity between the countries was restored in October.These measures, implemented under the guidance of leadership from both nations, aim to enhance interactions between their citizens, according to informed PTI sources.
