The newly implemented visa waiver agreement between China and Azerbaijan has ignited discussions about streamlined cross-border mobility and its ripple effects across Asia. CGTN spoke with Li Wen, Chief of Mission in China for the International Organization for Migration (IOM), who emphasized the policy's potential to "redefine regional connectivity."
Boosting People-to-People Exchange
Li noted the agreement, effective immediately for ordinary passport holders, could increase tourism by up to 40% annually while fostering business collaborations. "This isn't just about shorter queues at airports," she said. "It's about creating neural pathways for cultural understanding and economic symbiosis."
Blueprint for Regional Cooperation
The IOM official suggested the China-Azerbaijan model could inspire similar agreements between Asian nations, particularly along Belt and Road Initiative corridors. She highlighted reduced administrative barriers as key to unlocking $2.3 trillion in potential tourism revenue across developing Asian economies by 2030.
Global Mobility Vision
When asked about worldwide applications, Li stressed the need for "balanced frameworks that prioritize security while enabling talent circulation." The IOM is reportedly advising 12 Asian governments on implementing smart border management systems to support such policies.
