The Nathu La pass in the Himalayas between China and India reopened for trade on Thursday, after being closed for 44 years.
In the Himalayas, 4,300 metres above sea level, linking Sikkim with China.
Historical Importance
Part of the historic Silk Road, trade across Nathu La took off after Indian independence in 1947. The area saw 80 per cent of total Sino-Indian trade before the pass was closed in 1962.
Why was it closed?
Skirmishes along the two countries' 3,500-km border prompted the India-China war in 1962. Both sides lost about 500 soldiers in bitter high altitude battles, and trade was frozen. Clashes continued after a November 1962 ceasefire. In 1987, the two forces had around 40,000 troops stationed by the border.
Why was it reopened?
Agreement to re-open Nathu La pass came during former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee's 2003 trip to China. China gave ground by recognising Sikkim, a former Buddhist kingdom, which became part of India in 1975, as Indian territory.
Trade ties
— (With inputs from Reuters)
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