Visa-free travel helps China rekindle ties with middle powers

China has started visa-free travel for Canadians as part of a new strategic partnership between the two countries. British citizens have also been granted similar visa-free entry to China starting on Feb 17. This came after state visits to China by Canada’s Carney and UK’s Starmer that saw a thawing of previously frosty relations. Analysts said such visa waivers have been used as a tool in China’s diplomatic efforts as it rekindles ties with middle powers amid a fast-changing global order. NTU’s Assoc Prof Dylan Loh, who studies Chinese foreign policy, told ST that China’s expansion of its visa-free policy is a “smart strategy”. It enables a greater flow of people, capital, talent and ideas into China, while allowing Beijing to promote the narrative that China remains committed to opening up to the world, he said.

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