Argentina eases visa rules for Chinese travellers amid closer ties with Beijing

Argentina will no longer require visas for Chinese citizens holding valid U.S. entry visas to enter the country for tourism or business, the government said on Monday, in a move reflecting warming ties between Buenos Aires and Beijing.

The measure, announced by President Javier Millei, aims to boost tourism and “deactivate mechanisms” that have hindered Argentina’s economic growth, with tourism described as a strategic sector, according to a government statement.

The decision mirrors China’s move in May to grant visa-free entry to citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay. 

Argentina said it was “appropriate to adopt equivalent measures” for Chinese nationals with ordinary passports entering for tourism or business.

China is Argentina’s second-largest trading partner after Brazil and a key market for beef, soy, and lithium. 

It has also invested heavily in infrastructure, energy, and mining projects in the country and extended a multi-billion-dollar currency swap line to help ease upcoming debt repayments.

Argentina also joined China’s Belt and Road Initiative in 2022.

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