New Delhi: China has decided to temporarily suspend the entry into the country by foreign nationals from India and some other countries including UK, Bangladesh and Philippines holding valid visas or residence permits in view of the coronavirus pandemic.
“Foreigners with emergency or humanitarian needs to visit China, can submit visa application to the Chinese embassy/consulates in India. The entry into China with visas issued after November 3rd is not affected,” the embassy said in Delhi.
“China’s Foreign Ministry confirmed on Thursday that the suspension of entry for non-Chinese nationals from some countries – including the UK, Bangladesh and the Philippines – is only a temporary measure in response to the spike in COVID-19 cases in those counties; it is both reasonable and in line with international practice,” says ‘Global Times’.
Indian government has said the the announcement made by the Chinese Embassy indicates that the measure is a “temporary action” and that changes can be expected in a “timely manner”.
“The measure is not India specific. It is noted that similar measures have been announced in respect of several other countries,” a source said here.
Action taken is to temporarily suspend existing visas only. As the notice indicates, future visa applications have not been banned. Visas issued after November 3rd is valid for travel to China; the source said.
“The reason behind the measure seems to be Chinese concerns on possible rise in COVID-19 cases globally, aggravated due to the advent of autumn and winter in the Northern Hemisphere. The Government of India is in touch with the Chinese side to facilitate essential travel of Indians to and from China,” the source said.
Entry for holders of diplomatic, service, courtesy or C visas will not be affected. Foreign nationals visiting China for emergency reasons can apply for visas.
Entry by non-Chinese nationals in Bangladesh with visas issued after November 5, 2020, will not be affected.
The Chinese embassies in the UK and the Philippines also released similar notices, media reports said.
