Citizens from Albania and China now are eligible to enter each-other’s territories without being obliged to apply for a visa at first, following the agreement reached between the authorities of these two countries.
According to a report provided by Lajme RTSH, such a proposal has been presented by Olta Xhacka, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, stressing that the decision will become effective immediately, VisaGuide.World reports.
Western Balkan countries maintain close contacts with East Asian countries, mainly for economic purposes, according to Balkan Insight report.
The same notes a report provided by the European Parliament published back in June, on Western Balkans and China, which says that for states in this territory the lack of conditionality for investments from China makes them more attractive.
“This, however, impacts EU conditionality negatively by reducing the effectiveness of the proposed reforms and standards, particularly in terms of social rights, sustainability and environmental protection. Other aspects of Beijing’s activities in the region could also hinder Balkan countries’ prospects of joining the bloc,” it added.
Previously, authorities in Albania announced the abolishment of visas for citizens of China during the peak tourist season. The government of Albania announced that for a period from April 1 until October 31, all persons who hold valid passports from a total of nine countries, including those from China, could enter Albania without being required to apply for a visa at first for a period of 90 days.
The bilateral agreement between Albania and China was reached as part of efforts to ease the travel process. In addition, it was reported that following the bilateral agreement, both these countries previously abolished visas for all those who hold diplomatic and service passports.
It was also reported that in August, China as well as Albania reached an agreement to ease visa procedures, granting visas of more than five years to both countries’ citizens who hold ordinary passports for specific purposes, including business, tourism and family visits.
In addition to Albania, Serbia also has an agreement with China for visa-free travel. Other non-EU countries require visas from Chinese nationals, even though in North Macedonia there has been talk about mutual abolishment of visas for many years.
Citizens of Turkey also need a visa in order to visit China. It has also been reported that Chinese officials are excluded from visa requirements in order to travel to Turkey for a period of more than 30 days, but other passport holders must have a visa.
Montenegro’s citizens also need a visa in order to enter China, which is valid for a period of six months. At the same time citizens of China also need a visa to enter Montenegro that is valid for 30 days.
The post China & Albania Reach Visa-Free Travel Agreement appeared first on VisaGuide.World.
