China said it was willing to resume a travel exchange with the United States following an announcement by the US it was easing some coronavirus travel bans.
The US has announced it will allow students and professionals in various categories and from various countries, including China, to enter the country.
Journalists, students and academics covered by visitor exchange programmes and travellers from Brazil, Britain, China, Iran, Ireland, the Schengen Area (covering most European Union countries) and South Africa who “provide vital support for critical infrastructure” may now qualify for a “national interest exception” which would allow them entry to the US.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said on Wednesday that China welcomed the “positive move”.
“China has achieved significant results in containing the epidemic. We hope the US side can make proper arrangements to facilitate the entry of Chinese personnel, and create favourable conditions for resuming personnel exchanges between the two sides.”
Asked about whether China would make reciprocal arrangement for American travellers, Zhao said: “China, under the premise of safety, will study and have an overview on the matter of foreign students coming to China, maintain communication with all parties and push for safe and orderly personnel exchanges.”
