China reduces Algerians’ quota in visa to minimal level

Chinese consulate in Algeria restricts visa granting. Approved visa applications are estimated at 10 percent, Echorouk has learnt.

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  Algerian nationals receive the same treatment when they apply for visas from Chinese embassies in Asian countries like Thailand and Hong Kong, according to the same sources.

  “This is due to Beijing’s desire to stop flow from certain countries. China wants to attract a large number of tourists who spend a lot of money to attend cultural, touristic, sportive and economic events.”

  On Sunday’s morning, there was a long queue of visa applicants. Policemen had to intervene to organise them.

  Many of the applicants said they had been in the queue since Saturday’s night. The phenomenon of rejecting applications started after a seven-day-vacation taken by the embassy’s employees.
  

  A number of tradesmen and businessmen showed invitations they had received from Chinese companies and factories with fixed dates. Yet, they did not get a visa. Another man showed a 150,000 DZ airplane ticket and two days left for the trip without getting a visa.
  

  The applicants complained of the slow procedures. Although tens of them gather next to the embassy, five or six only could enter it.

  The same sources said the Chinese embassy stopped dealing with travel agencies in applying for visas.

  Political relationships between Algiers and Beijing are excellent and strategic. That has a positive impact on economy. The number of Chinese workers in Algeria is estimated at 40,000. Chinese companies won projects worth $6 billion in 2004-2009.