Authorities from Mexico and China inaugurated the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Mexico City. This new space will facilitate visa processing for Mexicans and other citizens seeking to visit China for tourism, cultural or business reasons. This place will strengthen the relationship between both nations, said the Chinese ambassador to Mexico, Zhang Run.
Run spoke of the long friendship between both countries, and stated that relations have recently advanced to a “fast track.” In addition, he noted that so far this year, the number of visas granted by the embassy has increased by 77% compared to 2023.
“We are comprehensive strategic partners and the complementary and mutually beneficial strategic nature of our relations is constantly highlighted, with practical and fruitful cooperation.”
A new timely and strategic visa center
Ambassador Zhang Run described the opening of the center as “very timely” and stressed that its objective is to expedite visa applications for Mexicans and citizens of other countries in Mexico. With this new headquarters, China now has 107 such centers in 58 countries.
At the inaugural event, the Undersecretary of Tourism, Sebastián Ramírez, recognized the importance of China in the culture, gastronomy and industry of Mexico, and highlighted the interest of President Claudia Sheinbaum in strengthening tourism and exchanges with Asia, especially with China.
Rafael Bernal, coordinator of consular services of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that this visa center “undoubtedly” reflects the strengthening of bilateral relations and works as a tool to promote exchange in political, economic, social and cultural areas. In his words:
“Diplomatic relations have been strengthened and have given stories of mutual development and enrichment of the Mexican human experience, with the benefits of the Asian continent.”
First visa applicant and symbol of friendship between both countries
María Eugenia Rosas, a 65-year-old Mexican lawyer, was the first to receive her visa at the new center, in preparation for her trip to China in December. The lawyer said that China is “a country with a first-world culture, highly productive, with highly educated and cultured people.” At the event, Ambassador Zhang Run gave her a panda plush toy as a symbol of friendship between the two countries.
Source: xataka
