India and China reopen Nathu La trade route

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After being closed for more than six years, trade through the historic Nathu La pass in Sikkim is set to resume from August 1 under a regulated border trade mechanism. The reopening follows government decisions by both sides and state preparations in Sikkim, and comes alongside other confidence-building steps such as the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and talks on direct flights. Trade will be seasonal and limited to an approved commodity list, and the route's proximity to the Chumbi Valley gives the move strategic as well as economic significance for local commerce and bilateral engagement.

Trade at Nathu La will resume from August 1.