Chinese authorities have expressed willingness to facilitate visa procedures for tourists wishing to visit Cyprus, according to a senior Foreign Ministry official who recently met a delegation of Cypriot journalists in Beijing.
The press visit, organised at the invitation of the Chinese Embassy, lasted approximately one week and included stops in Beijing, Xi’an and Weinan.
Yao Fei, Minister Counsellor in the Department of European Affairs, briefed the journalists on a range of issues, including bilateral diplomatic relations, China’s economic growth, the Vassiliko energy project in Cyprus, potential defence cooperation, and domestic policies such as traffic management, pollution control, green transition efforts and artificial intelligence.
Speaking on tourism, Yao acknowledged that current visa procedures are complex and may discourage Chinese citizens from travelling abroad. He expressed hope that steps will be taken to simplify the process, noting that easier access would boost travel demand.
He also highlighted the importance of improving the visitor experience, suggesting the introduction of Chinese-language signage and interpretation at archaeological sites and key attractions. In addition, he called for more targeted promotional events in China to raise Cyprus’ profile as a tourist destination.
Describing Cyprus as a safe country, Yao noted that Chinese tourists are high spenders and encouraged Cypriot authorities to adopt measures that would further attract and accommodate this market segment.
On connectivity, he confirmed that a memorandum of understanding on direct flights was signed in 2024, with ongoing discussions aimed at assessing market demand.
Yao reiterated China’s longstanding position on the Cyprus issue and expressed appreciation for Cyprus’ support of the One China policy. He added that, following the 2021 agreement between the two countries’ presidents to upgrade bilateral relations, China remains open to expanding cooperation across all sectors.
