BEIJING (Web Desk) – China has announced visa-free travel access for citizens of the United Kingdom and Canada, allowing short-term visits without prior visa approval.
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The foreign ministry in Beijing said the policy will take effect from Tuesday and remain valid until 31 December. The development follows recent visits by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Both leaders held meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and senior officials, where discussions focused on expanding bilateral cooperation and strengthening diplomatic engagement.
Authorities said ordinary passport holders will be allowed to stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa for purposes including business, tourism, family visits, exchange programmes and transit. Officials added the move is aimed at encouraging stronger public and economic connections.
Separately, senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi held talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during the Munich Security Conference. Officials said Beijing is seeking deeper strategic engagement with European partners.
Observers say China is also working to reinforce relations with the European Union as European governments attempt to balance economic cooperation with broader strategic priorities.
