IRSA: China expands visa-free policy to deepen international exchanges and cooperation

Group 1: Visa Policy Changes - China has implemented a visa-free policy for citizens of Australia, New Zealand, and Poland, effective from July 1, 2024, allowing stays of up to 15 days [1] - Since 2023, China has piloted a unilateral visa-free policy for citizens from six countries and has signed or extended mutual visa exemption agreements with several others [2] - A 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy has been opened for 54 countries since October 2023, and measures to facilitate entry for foreigners have been introduced [3] Group 2: Economic Implications - The visa waiver policy is part of a broader strategy to attract foreign investment and strengthen economic ties amid slowing global growth [4] - From January 1 to May 31, 2024, 12.009 million foreigners entered China, with 7.014 million entering visa-free, marking a year-on-year increase of 1.9 times compared to 2023 [4] - The increase in cross-border movement is expected to boost China's tourism industry, with significant growth in searches for flights and accommodations in China [5] Group 3: Human Rights and International Relations - China's opening up reflects an increase in human rights freedoms and aims to create a more open and fair international environment [6] - The country is committed to mutual respect and cooperation, promoting cultural exchanges and understanding among different nations [6][7] - The upcoming United Nations Universal Periodic Review is anticipated to yield positive feedback regarding China's human rights practices [6]