As a sign of the increasing international clout of the PRC passport, the French government has decided to issue five-year multiple-entry visa to more Chinese nationals, French Prime Minister Manuel Valls told reporters in a joint press conference with visiting Chinese premier Li Keqiang.
Easing visa rules is one of key agenda items for Premier Li’s latest visit to France, in addition to other topics such as bolstering international productivity and third-party cooperation.
Accompanied by PM Valls, Premier Li said both countries had reached a landmark agreement to issue more five-year multiple-entry visas for Chinese nationals and establish visa agencies in cities with no French embassy or consulates to facilitate visa applications. “This will make it more convenient for Chinese nationals to work, travel and study in France. We will offer reciprocal rights for French nationals,” said Premier Li.
Premier Li had previously reached an agreement with EU leaders in a meeting in Brussels on June 29 to establish EU visa processing centers in 15 Chinese cities that do not have consulates.
This will make it more convenient for Chinese nationals applying for EU visas and facilitate visitor exchanges.
“Sino-French bilateral exchanges can lead the way in the EU, especially among students and interns for study and training,” Premier Li said.
One commentator said France’s visa measures for Chinese nationals would lead to the relaxation of visa policies for Chinese nationals by other EU nations. PM Valls underscored the significance of the visa move by saying: “We welcome our Chinese friends with open arms!”(Translation by David)
