Kyrgyzstan Implements Visa-Free Travel for Select Chinese Citizens
Kyrgyzstan Announces Visa-Free Regime for Chinese Citizens on the 10th Anniversary of One Belt, One Road Initiative
Bishkek, October 11, 2023 – Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Edil Baisalov, participated in a special meeting of the Kyrgyzstan – China Friendship Society to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the One Belt, One Road initiative. During the event, it was announced that Kyrgyzstan has decided to introduce a visa-free regime for Chinese citizens residing in the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau. This move aims to strengthen the friendly and partnership relations between the peoples of Kyrgyzstan and China, as well as to enhance cultural and economic cooperation.
In addition to the visa waiver for residents of Hong Kong and Macau, Chinese citizens holding open visas to the United States, Great Britain, and the European Union will also be eligible for visa-free entry into Kyrgyzstan for a period of one week. This policy aims to facilitate travel and further promote cultural and economic exchanges between China and Kyrgyzstan.
“This decision is a significant step towards deepening our friendly relations and expanding cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and China,” stated Edil Baisalov.
The One Belt, One Road initiative, also known as the Belt and Road Initiative, was launched in 2013 by the Chinese government. It aims to promote infrastructure development, trade, and connectivity between China and countries in Asia, Europe, and beyond. The 10th anniversary of this initiative marks a milestone in the cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and China, highlighting the strong partnership between the two nations.
The introduction of a visa-free regime for Chinese citizens reflects the commitment of Kyrgyzstan to foster closer ties with China and attract more Chinese tourists, investors, and businesses to the country. It is expected that this measure will contribute to the growth of tourism and boost economic cooperation between the two nations.
As Kyrgyzstan continues to strengthen its relations with China, both countries are poised to benefit from increased cooperation in various sectors, including trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchanges. The visa-free regime is a positive development that will facilitate people-to-people contact and further promote mutual understanding between the peoples of Kyrgyzstan and China.
This decision by the Kyrgyz government demonstrates its commitment to building stronger ties with China and harnessing the opportunities presented by the One Belt, One Road initiative. The visa-free regime for Chinese citizens is a significant step towards realizing the shared vision of cooperation and friendship between Kyrgyzstan and China.
