As noted in its previous communications, the Embassy of India in Beijing has continued to follow up closely with Chinese authorities, including the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, regarding the concerns of Indian students in China, especially their early return to colleges/universities in this country.

2.        Chinese authorities at various levels continue to maintain their position that, on account of last year’s announcement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China and the State Administration of Immigration to suspend temporarily the entry of foreigners holding valid Chinese Visa and residence permits following the outbreak of Covid-19 in many countries in the world, overseas students are temporarily unable to enter China. Chinese authorities have also conveyed that they are aware of the concerns of the students and have asked all relevant Chinese universities to maintain close contact with the students and keep them informed, besides continuing with the online courses. It has also been suggested by Chinese authorities that Indian students stay in touch with their universities and pursue their studies in accordance with the suggestions and guidance of the universities.

3.        The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, responding to a question on the return of Indian students to China, stated the following in its daily press briefing of 19 March:

“The Chinese government attaches high importance to protecting the rights and interests of foreign students in China. Academic institutions are required to keep in close contact with those students abroad, make good arrangements for online courses, and properly address their legitimate concerns and appeals. On the pre-condition of observing containment protocols, the Chinese authorities will study this matter in a coordinated manner and keep in communication with relevant parties.”

4.         Recently, Chinese authorities have issued a notification relating to visa facilitation for foreigners traveling to China. It should be noted that this notification does not apply to foreign students.

5.         The Embassy will continue to engage with the Chinese side to seek progress on the issue of movement of people between the two countries. Indian students in the meanwhile are advised to monitor the website of the Indian Embassy / Consulates in China and our social media channels to remain updated about the evolving situation in respect of the return of foreign students to China.

*****