Visa-Free Travel Winds: A Boost for UK-China Economic Ties

China has agreed to ease visa requirements for British citizens, allowing visa-free travel for up to 30 days. This move, part of a broader UK-China partnership, aims to stimulate Britain's services sector. The agreement also entails a feasibility study for a bilateral services agreement.

In a significant development, China has decided to relax its visa rules, allowing British citizens to travel without a visa for up to 30 days. This announcement came during British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's visit to Beijing, part of a broader initiative aimed at boosting the UK's service sector.

Following discussions with President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Starmer hailed the move as a significant victory for businesses. The visa-free travel arrangement is expected to facilitate market expansion for British companies in China, thus contributing to job creation back home.

Starmer's visit to China is focused on invigorating the UK's sluggish economy. The visit also included an agreement on conducting a feasibility study for a potential bilateral services agreement, which could further enhance British firms' engagement in China, particularly in sectors like healthcare, finance, and education.

(With inputs from agencies.)