In a shocking turn of event, all flights coming from India were suspended by China on Thursday. Foreign nationals living in India who even had valid Chinese visas or residence permits were also prevented from entering into China.

The reason cited for this ban was corona virus pandemic.

In a statement given by China’s Foreign Ministry on Thursday said, “The Chinese Embassy/Consulates in India will not stamp the Health Declaration Forms for the holders of the above-mentioned categories of visa or residence permits,”.

“Foreigners holding Chinese diplomatic, service, courtesy and C visas are not affected. Foreigners with emergency or humanitarian needs to visit China can submit visa application to the Chinese Embassy/ Consulates in India. The entry into China with visas issued after November 3rd, 2020 is not affected.” he further added.

He informed that the suspension is a temporary means to tackle the ongoing Covid-19 situation, and that changes will be done accordingly in time.

“China will make further adjustments and announcements in accordance with the ongoing pandemic situation in a timely manner,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry in his statement.

Only existing visas are suspended on temporary basis, the future visa applications will continue to exist. Visas issued after November 3rd will be accepted for travel to China.”

The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Thursday also barred

Entry for non-Chinese visitors was also denied from a number of countries which includes Britain, Belgium and the Philippines into Mainland China.

For entry in China, visitors from France, Germany and the US will have to produce their health test results.