During his recent visit to France, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced news that will interest many travelers: the extension of the 15-day visa waiver policy for nationals of 12 European and Asian countries.
This measure, initially scheduled to expire at the end of 2024will now be in force until the end of 2025. Let's take a closer look at what this means for international travel and Sino-European relations.
Which countries are concerned?
The list of countries benefiting from this exemption includes several European Union heavyweights as well as Malaysia. Here are the nations favored by this agreement: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Hungary, Ireland, Malaysia
This decision is part of a broader effort to strengthen economic and cultural ties between China and these nations. President Xi Jinping has explicitly mentioned his desire to promote interpersonal exchanges and stimulate the tourism sector affected by earlier pandemic-related restrictions.
What's more, this policy aims to facilitate the import of quality agricultural products from countries like France, directly onto the tables of Chinese consumers.
At a time when international tensions can be palpable, initiatives such as this one make a significant contribution to building bridges between nations. bridges of mutual understanding and peaceful cooperation.
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