HKGCC Welcomes Long-term Multiple Visas for HK Permanent Residents who are Foreign Nationals

Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce welcomes the agreement by Mainland China to issue three-year multiple visas for Hong Kong permanent residents who are foreign nationals starting from 10 December 2001. We believe that this move will strengthen Hong Kong's role as the bridge linking up the international business community with China.

During the Chamber's June Beijing visit, the proposal for lengthening multiple visas for foreign HK permanent residents was formally put forward to Vice Premier Li Lanqing, MOFTEC Minister Shi Guansheng and Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office Deputy Director Chen Zuoer. Since then, HKGCC actively followed up with the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office and the SAR government on the progress of the issue. The issue was covered in this year's Chief Executive's Policy Address and the three-year multiple visas finally come into effect before the year 2001 finishes. We would hope that this move can lead eventually to a China travel permit for these same individuals.

For further information, contact Dr Eden Woon on 2823-1211.