China fully suspends short-term visa issuance for Korean nationals
Foreign Ministry "Conveying our position through diplomatic channels"
[Asia Economy Reporter Jang Hee-jun] China has completely suspended the issuance of short-term visas for Korean nationals traveling to China as retaliation against the South Korean government's strengthened quarantine measures for arrivals from China. The South Korean government expressed regret over China's recent action and stated that it will maintain close communication through diplomatic channels.
Im Soo-seok, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a briefing on the 10th, "Regarding China's measures, consultations and communications have taken place through diplomatic channels between the two countries," adding, "We will continue to closely communicate by conveying our government's position to China once again."
Earlier, the Embassy of China in Korea announced via its official WeChat account that, following domestic instructions in China, starting today, the Embassy and Consulates General in Korea will suspend the issuance of short-term visas for Korean nationals visiting China for purposes including visits, commercial trade, tourism, medical treatment, and general personal reasons.
Considering the recent rapid spread of COVID-19 infections within China, the South Korean government had already suspended the issuance of short-term visas for tourists traveling to Korea starting from the 30th of last month. China's recent measure is interpreted as a 'retaliatory action' against South Korea's strengthened quarantine policies.
This move also came shortly after Foreign Minister Park Jin exchanged differing views with Qin Gang, the newly appointed Chinese Foreign Minister, during their first introductory phone call the previous day regarding South Korea's measures.
A representative from the Chinese Embassy in Korea stated, "Depending on the cancellation of 'discriminatory entry restrictions' against China, this measure will be adjusted," and added, "This action was taken based on the principle of reciprocity."
In response, spokesperson Im explained, "Our government's strengthened quarantine measures were implemented based on scientific and objective grounds," and "We have transparently shared relevant information with the international community and have continuously communicated this position to China through diplomatic channels."
Additionally, a Ministry of Foreign Affairs official told reporters on the same day, "We regret China's measures," and "We have conveyed our position to China through diplomatic channels."
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