China has announced an expansion of its visa-free travel policy to include citizens from six additional European countries in a bid to stimulate tourism and bolster international relations.
Effective March 14, citizens from Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg will be granted visa-free entry to China.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi disclosed this development during a press conference in Beijing, highlighting China's efforts to facilitate travel and enhance diplomatic ties with European nations.
Under the trial policy, citizens from these countries will be permitted to stay in China for up to 15 days for various purposes, including business, tourism, family visits, and transit.
This announcement follows China's previous decision in December to waive visa requirements for citizens from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain. The move comes as China endeavors to revive its tourism industry, which has been severely impacted by years of border closures amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
China's initiative to scrap visa requirements for an increasing number of European and Asian countries underscores its commitment to fostering international cooperation and economic recovery. By facilitating easier travel access, China aims to attract more visitors and stimulate economic growth in the tourism sector, positioning itself as an attractive destination for global travelers.
