According to the Moscow news agency Tass on Monday, December 26 China said that it will lift the restrictions that have prevented many people from travelling to the country. Instead of being required to enter quarantine travellers will now be able to undergo a PCR test up to 48 hours prior to departure in a rule that was used by European nations until it was abolished earlier this year. The report announcing the change says: “Individuals arriving in China must undergo PCR testing 48 hours before departure. “In case of a negative result, they will be able to enter the PRC without requesting a health code at the embassy or consulate when filling out a customs declaration on the state of health.” China has been closed to the outside world since early 2020 when restrictions were placed on travellers from abroad. Passenger corridors at land border points were closed, and passengers arriving from abroad had to undergo mandatory quarantine. Currently, the quarantine period is five days having been reduced from the three weeks initially imposed. The State Hygiene and Health Commission announced on Monday that, by decision of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, COVID-19 will be excluded from the list of so-called class “A” diseases. That list imposes special restrictions on travel into and out of the country. Many will question the timing as China lifts COVID-19 quarantine restrictions for arrivals, with reports of rampant transmission and growing death rates in all the major centres. The country would appear to finally be following the path taken by western countries although there are fears that it will be problematic as few have received an effective vaccine or a booster shot. Thank you for taking the time to read this article, do remember to come back and check The Euro Weekly News website for all your up-to-date local and international news stories and remember, you can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.