The Chinese authorities have temporarily suspended entry
into China by Nigerians and other nationals in Nigeria holding valid Chinese
visas or residence permits due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Our correspondent learnt that the United Kingdom, Belgium,
Luxembourg, Philippines and a few others were also affected by the policy.
It was gathered that the decision was informed by the
evaluation of the COVID-19 situation in the concerned countries.
Announcing this in a public notice on Thursday, the Embassy
of China and Consulate in Nigeria also said it will no longer issue certified
health declaration form for non-Chinese nationals in the country.
It, however, said holders of diplomatic passports, courtesy
or C visas would not be affected by the regulation.
The statement was titled, ‘Notice of temporary suspension of
entry into China by non-Chinese nationals in Nigeria holding valid Chinese
visas or residence permits.’
It read, “Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, China has decided to
temporarily suspend entry into China by non-Chinese nationals in Nigeria
holding visas or residence permits still valid at the time of this
announcement.
“The Chinese Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria will no longer
issue a certified health declaration form for the above-mentioned personnel.
Entry by holders of diplomatic service, courtesy or C visas will not be
affected.
“Foreign nationals visiting China for emergency needs may
apply for visas at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate. Entry by non-Chinese
nationals in Nigeria with visas issued after November 3, 2020, will not be
affected.”
The embassy explained that the suspension was a temporary
response necessitated by the current situation of COVID-19.
It added that the measures would be assessed in accordance
with the evolving situation “and any adjustment will be announced,
accordingly.”
Also speaking on the development in an interview with the
AFP, the spokesman,Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry, Wang Wenbin, said the
entry suspension was a legitimate and valid move consistent with international
customary practices.
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Will Nigeria reciprocate the disrespectful treatment from China? China is not barring Nigerians or those travelling from Nigeria because of high infection rate it is just because they don't trust our statistics and feel government will always provide false figures. Shameful!
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