Editorial | Easing of journalists’ visa rules to improve US and China trust
- Amid a pandemic and a trade and technology war, foreign correspondents have a role to play in enhancing understanding between governments and peoples
It is good news therefore, that Washington and Beijing have confirmed they have reached agreement to relax visa restrictions on their respective foreign correspondents. This will see both sides agree to extend journalist visas from the current three months to a year, with option to renew.
News of the pact came after the leaders’ summit but apparently had been under discussion for months between senior officials. Given that the summit focused on ways to “responsibly manage” competition between the two powers, the announcement of better reciprocal media access was well timed.
More frequent talks between senior officials will improve trust and understanding. But such interaction is necessary at all levels and it is at the grass roots, among ordinary Americans and Chinese, that there is scope for encouraging ties that help build friendship rather than competition.