China announces visa-free travel for UK, Canadian citizens

Beijing (Web Desk): China has announced visa-free entry for citizens of the United Kingdom and Canada, allowing them to travel without a visa for short stays.

According to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the policy will take effect from Tuesday and remain valid until December 31. Under the new arrangement, holders of ordinary passports from the UK and Canada can stay in China for up to 30 days for business, tourism, visiting family or friends, exchange programs, or transit purposes. Officials said the move aims to strengthen people-to-people ties.

The announcement follows recent visits to Beijing by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. During their meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and senior officials, both sides agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation.

Meanwhile, China’s top diplomat Wang Yi met with Germany’s Chancellor Frederik Merz on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. Beijing said it aims to elevate its comprehensive strategic partnership with Germany.

Analysts believe China is also seeking to stabilize and expand ties with the European Union, particularly as Europe works to rebalance its foreign policy approach.