China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is set to expand its 15-day visa-free entry policy to six additional European countries, marking a significant step towards strengthening ties and revitalizing tourism in a post-pandemic world.
The countries set to benefit from this policy extension include Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg. Starting from March 14 to November 30, 2024, citizens holding ordinary passports from these nations will be able to enter China without a visa for various purposes such as business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, as well as transit.
This move comes as part of China’s efforts to create a more cross-border network and accelerate the resumption of international passenger flights. China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, expressed hope that more countries would provide visa convenience to Chinese citizens, fostering a seamless network for personnel exchanges.
In addition to the visa-free entry policy extension, China is planning to set up more local tours for envoys in China to strengthen connections between local governments and enterprises, both at home and abroad. This initiative aligns with China’s broader strategy to revitalize its travel and tourism sector, which has been heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Notably, China had previously expanded its 15-day visa-free travel policy to include five EU countries and Malaysia in November 2023. This move aimed to facilitate travel for tourism, business, visiting relatives and friends, and transit purposes, showcasing China’s commitment to promoting international exchanges and cooperation.
Despite the slow return of foreign travelers to China, with arrivals this year down more than 60 per cent from pre-pandemic levels, the country remains optimistic about the future of its tourism industry. With measures like the extended visa-free entry policy and efforts to strengthen global connections, China is working towards reigniting tourism and welcoming travelers from around the world.
The goal is to promote international exchanges, foster closer ties, and create a welcoming environment for tourists looking to explore the rich culture and heritage of China. As the world gradually recovers from the pandemic, China is paving the way for a brighter future for travel and tourism.
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