The Chinese government has introduced a visa free entry facility for citizens of the United Kingdom and Canada. This decision will allow British and Canadian passport holders to travel to China without a visa for a limited period.

According to a statement issued by the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the new visa free policy will take effect from January 17 and will remain valid until December 31 this year. During this period, eligible citizens from the UK and Canada can benefit from this facility.

Under the new policy, ordinary passport holders from both countries will be allowed to stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa. They can visit for business, tourism, meeting relatives and friends, exchange programs or transit purposes.

Chinese authorities said the main purpose of this move is to strengthen people to people connections between China, the United Kingdom and Canada. Officials believe this step will encourage more travel and improve mutual understanding.

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This development comes after 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 other senior officials, both sides agreed to enhance cooperation and strengthen bilateral relations.

At the same time, senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi met German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. China expressed its desire to elevate its comprehensive strategic partnership with Germany to a new level.

Diplomatic experts say China is actively working to improve ties with the European Union, especially at a time when Europe is trying to balance its foreign policy approach.

This move shows China wants stronger global connections. Visa free travel can improve business and tourism. It also signals warming diplomatic ties. Such steps may help reduce tensions and build trust between countries.