Beijing, August 22
China on Monday announced plans to issue visas to hundreds of Indian students stranded at home for over two years due to Beijing’s strict Covid restrictions, besides various categories of travel permits for Indians, including business visas.
“Warmest congrats to #Indian #students! Your patience proves worthwhile. I can really share your excitement & happiness. Welcome back to #China!” Ji Rong, Counsellor, Department of Asian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, China tweeted.
Her tweet cited a detailed announcement by the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi announcing the opening of visas for students, businessmen and families of those working in China.
As per the announcement, X1-Visa, will be issued to students who intend to go to China to pursue long-term study for higher academic education, including newly-enrolled students and students who return to China to resume their studies.
Over 23,000 Indian students, mostly studying medicine, are reportedly stuck back home due to Covid visa restrictions.
India had submitted a list of several hundred students after China sought the names of those wanting to return immediately to pursue their studies.
Some students from Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Russia and several other countries have already arrived on chartered flights in recent weeks.
