Zhao Lijian, the spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, at a press conference. Photo: VCG

At least 1,300 Indian students have already been granted visas to come to study in China, as people-to-people exchanges between the two countries have made progress in overcoming the epidemic, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said at a press conference on Monday.

Zhao Lijian said that the communication channels between Indian students and Chinese universities are smooth, and advised Indian students to keep close contact with their universities and return back for their studies in an orderly manner according to the arrangements of their universities.

He made the remarks in response to a question concerning reports that thousands of Indian students enrolled at Chinese universities were affected due to COVID-19 visa restrictions in China.

According to some Indian media reports, one of the problems is that many Chinese universities have not yet issued the “No-Objection Certificate” to thousands of Indian students for their return without which they cannot apply for visas. 
 
The Chinese government welcomes foreign students to return back for their studies and provides assistance within its capacity for international students to come to China, said Zhao, adding that international students coming to China for education can normally apply for visas from Chinese embassies and consulates overseas at the moment.

International students who hold a valid residence permit for study can enter China directly with the residence permit since August 24, Zhao said.

Global Times