Nigerian and Chinese Flags
By Our Reporter
What is perhaps described as an irony played itself out as the Chinese authorities have temporarily barred Nigerians from entering China.
The Chinese authority suspended Nigerians and other nationals in Nigeria holding valid Chinese visas or residence permits from travelling to China on account of the COVID-19 pandemic.
It will be recalled that the pandemic allegedly emanated from a Chinese laboratory, in Wuhan and many are wondering why the Chinese authority took this decision after being accused of infecting millions across the globe with COVID-19.
Gathered that the United Kingdom, Belgium, Luxembourg, Philippines and a few others were also affected by the policy after the Chinese authority evaluated the COVID-19 situation in the said 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 stated 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.”
In a related development, Wang Wenbin, spokesman, Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry said in an interview with the AFP, that the entry suspension was a legitimate and valid move consistent with international customary practices
