The extension of South Korea’s restrictions on the entry of short-term travelers from China is not conducive to personnel exchanges and cooperation between the two countries, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning said at a press briefing in Beijing on Monday.
Passengers arriving from China prepare for their coronavirus test at a COVID-19 testing center at the Incheon International Airport In Incheon, South Korea, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023. (Photo: AP)
South Korea on Friday said it would continue to restrict the entry of short-term travelers from China through the end of February over concerns that the spread of COVID-19 in the country may worsen following the Chinese New Year holiday.
In January this year, some countries announced temporary epidemic prevention measures for travelers from China, Mao said, adding that China has adopted relevant measures based on the principle of equity according to different situations.
“China regrets the South Korean side’s announcement to extend the suspension of visa issuance for Chinese citizens to South Korea, which is not conducive to personnel exchanges, communicaiton and cooperation between China and South Korea,” Mao said.
“We hope that the South Korean side will cancel the unreasonable practice as soon as possible.”
China was willing to take corresponding measures to facilitate personnel exchanges between the two countries on this basis, she said.
(Compiled by Zhu Yingqi)