China will grant visa-free entry to citizens of five Latin American nations for one year, starting June 1, as part of efforts to strengthen ties with the region.
Nationals of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay will be allowed to stay in China for up to 30 days without needing a visa, according to an announcement from China’s Foreign Ministry on Thursday. This trial program is set to last for one year.
“We welcome more foreign friends to visit China and experience its vibrancy and diversity,” said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian during a press briefing.
The move follows the China-CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum, which took place in Beijing earlier this week. The event focused on enhancing China’s relationships with Latin America as a strategic balance against U.S. influence in the region.
In recent months, China has relaxed entry requirements for travelers from numerous countries, including much of Europe, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia, in a bid to support economic recovery after prolonged pandemic-related restrictions.
Additionally, China and Uzbekistan will begin offering mutual visa-free entry for stays of up to 30 days, also starting June 1, as announced by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
