China to allow visa-free entry to citizens from 6 more European countries

China has expanded its visa-free entry policy to include citizens from six additional European countries: Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg. This announcement came from Foreign Minister Wang Yi during the National People’s Congress meeting in Beijing. Starting from March 14, citizens of these countries will be allowed to travel to China visa-free on a trial basis for up to 15 days, for purposes such as business, tourism, family visits, and transit.

The decision follows Premier Li Qiang’s earlier announcement during his tour to Switzerland and Ireland in January, extending the visa-free policy to citizens of those countries. They now join France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain, which were granted visa-free travel privileges in November.

Despite ongoing tensions between China and the EU over various issues like the conflict in Ukraine and economic disputes, efforts for closer cooperation have been made. Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo’s recent visit to Beijing, where he met with Premier Li Qiang and President Xi Jinping, exemplified this. Wang Yi expressed hope for stronger collaboration during this visit, emphasizing the importance of forging “new prospects” and “a new journey” in relations.