Visa resumptions will help greater international cooperation

By Zhao Manfeng | Updated: 2023-03-15

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Travelers wait to pass through immigration checkpoints in Beijing Capital International Airport in this file photo of Jan 8, 2023. [Photo by Zou Hong/China Daily]

In a much-anticipated move, China has announced the resumption of all types of visas from Wednesday, to facilitate cross-border travel and boost economic activity. This is great news for anyone who is interested in visiting or doing business in China, and sends a positive signal to the international community.

The decision to resume all types of visas is a testament to China's commitment to promoting greater international cooperation and understanding. It shows that the country is open to welcoming foreigners, whether for work, study, or tourism, and is willing to take necessary steps to facilitate their entry into the country.

Moreover, the decision to allow foreigners with valid visas issued before March 28, 2020, to enter the country comes as a relief for many who were stuck because of travel restrictions. This will allow them to resume their work or study in China, reunite with their families and contribute to the country's economic development.

China values openness and inclusivity. While the US hypes up decoupling, China wants to open-up further, using openness to combat closure and decoupling.

The flow of personnel is essential for maintaining robust exchange between nations. The notice also mentions the resumption of visa-free policies for entering the southern island province of Hainan, for cruise tour groups to enter Shanghai ports, for foreign tour groups from Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions to enter the southern province of Guangdong, and for ASEAN tourist groups to enter Guilin in Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.

This shows the Chinese government's determination to promote tourism and attract more investors to the country. It will help to boost the economy and create new opportunities for foreign businesses and entrepreneurs.

Overall, China's decision to resume all types of foreign visas is a positive development that should be welcomed by the international community. It shows that the country is committed to promoting greater openness and cooperation, and it will undoubtedly help to strengthen ties between China and the rest of the world.

The author is a writer with China Daily.