A surge in COVID-19 cases has led to the temporary suspension on India to China travel. Read here for further details. By Kumar Shree
Just about three days after China had issued new guidelines for passengers flying into the country, the Chinese Embassy in India has declared a temporary suspension on travel between the two countries, amid rising cases of Coronavirus.
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As reported by the Times of India, the official statement said, “Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, China temporarily suspends entry into the country by foreign nationals in India holding valid Chinese visas or residence permits. The Chinese Consulates/Embassy in India will not stamp the Health Declaration Forms for the holders of visa from the stated categories or residence permits.”
While the announcement will definitely affect the movement of individuals between the countries, China has assured that it is a temporary measure to deal with the current situation, and will soon work out further adjustments to resolve the affair and resume travels speedily and safely.
As reported by the Times of India, the statement further said, “Foreigners holding Chinese diplomatic, service, courtesy and C visas are not affected. Foreigners with emergency or humanitarian needs to visit China can submit the visa application to the Chinese Embassy/ consulates in India. The entry into China with visas issued after November 3, 2020, is not affected.”
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China has also prescribed tests and measures for those taking charter or special flights, arranged by the Government of either country, from India to China. These passengers must take double nucleic acid tests and one IgM anti-body test of COVID-19. Individuals must take these tests in labs authorised by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The sample of the first and the second nucleic acid test should be collected within 72 and 36 hours, respectively, before boarding the flight.
Apart from India, China has also put similar temporary travel restrictions on passengers from the United Kingdom, Belgium and the Philippines, as well.
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