China temporarily bans foreign visitors amid coronavirus pandemic

Friday, 27 March 2020 12:32

China will temporarily close its borders to foreign nationals, effective midnight Saturday, as imported cases rise.

The restriction will apply to travellers holding valid visas or resident permits.

In a statement, the country's foreign affairs ministry said the decision was taken to stop the rapid spread of COVID-19.

“The suspension is a temporary measure that China is compelled to take in light of the outbreak situation and the practices of other countries,” the ministry added.

Of the 55 new cases, 54 came from overseas.

So far, the country has recorded 81,340 cases, with 74,588 recoveries and 3,292 deaths.

More from International News

Britain pushes allies to boost Ukraine support as Zelenskyy lands in London

Britain on Friday urged fellow allies of Ukraine to reach a deal to use frozen Russian assets to strengthen its hand for any future peace talks, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in London for talks with those allies.
Erdogan says US, others must press Israel to abide by Gaza ceasefire

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said the United States and others must do more to push Israel to stop violating the Gaza ceasefire agreement, including the possible use of sanctions or halting arms sales.
EU vows financial backing for Kyiv

European Union leaders agreed on Thursday to meet Ukraine's "pressing financial needs" for the next two years but stopped short of endorsing a plan to use frozen Russian assets to fund a giant loan to Kyiv due to concerns raised by Belgium.
Tourists gawk and recoil at Trump's destruction of the White House East Wing

With many Washington tourist spots closed due to the US government shutdown, some visitors instead are checking out an unexpected and divisive new attraction in the nation's capital: President Donald Trump's surprise demolition of the White House's East Wing.