China issues over 85,000 Visas to Indians

The Chinese Embassy in India issued over 85,000 visas to Indian citizens between January 1 and April 9, 2025, marking a step towards stronger people-to-people ties between the two countries.According to Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong, "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. Welcome more Indian friends to visit China, experience an open, safe, vibrant, sincere and friendly China." He said this in a post on X.

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. Welcome more Indian friends to visit China, experience an open, safe, vibrant, sincere and friendly China. pic.twitter.com/4kkENM7nkK

— Xu Feihong (@China_Amb_India) April 12, 2025

This comes at a time when US President Donald Trump has been warning countries of possible tariffs, particularly targeting China, which is Washington’s key trading partner and top economic rival. China recently urged India to stand with it in opposing what it called the “US abuse of tariffs,” after Trump announced a sharp hike, raising cumulative tariffs on Chinese imports. The Chinese government has announced a series of visa relaxations to make travel easier for Indian citizens, including removal of the online appointment requirement and biometric exemption, among other steps aimed at boosting tourism and strengthening bilateral ties.