China.org.cn | September 11, 2024
People's Daily:
In recent years, with China's rapid economic development and increasing openness, mainland residents have shown a strong demand for international travel, business and study. The number of travelers crossing national borders has been steadily rising. What measures has the NIA taken to serve and support mainland residents' exit and entry needs, and what have been the results? What favorable policies or measures are planned for the future? Thank you.
Peng Ling:
Thank you for your question. As you noted, our country's high-quality socio-economic development has increased mainland residents' desire for international travel. Public interest in immigration management services is strong, with high expectations for international standards and work performance. In response, we are committed to establishing a modern immigration management system and mechanism that aligns with new institutions for a higher-standard open economy.
First, we have always adhered to performing our duties according to the law, having firmly established the concept of strict, standardized, impartial and civilized enforcement as well as resolutely preventing and cracking down on illegal and criminal activities that involve the field of exit and entry while effectively safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of citizens. By continuously improving our governance capabilities, we have established a lawful, safe and orderly exit and entry management, providing solid and smooth guarantees for Chinese citizens and enterprises to go global.
Second, in the reform driven by the one-stop government services initiative, we have continuously streamlined application documents, optimized certificate issuance procedures, scientifically set up service windows, and increased technological empowerment. As a result, the entry/exit documents application has evolved from a nationwide, one-stop service that required a one-time visit to an intelligent express service that is fully processed online and doesn't require any visit.
Third, we have continually enhanced the efficiency of entry and exit and border inspections. By setting up dedicated channels for Chinese citizens at ports with heavy passenger traffic, we have brought warm feelings to those traveling afar and returning home. Express lanes have been established at over 200 land, sea and air ports to further shorten customs clearance time and improve travel experiences. Furthermore, we have implemented joint inspection and one-time release at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and Hengqin Port, effectively alleviating congestion at large ports.
Additionally, to safeguard the entry and exit rights and security interests of Chinese citizens, we have collaborated with diplomatic departments to promote more countries to facilitate the entry, stay and residency of Chinese citizens. We proactively strengthen security risk warnings, guiding citizens to avoid dangerous regions and preventing personal harm and property losses. We also respond to and cooperate with our overseas institutions around the clock, promptly and properly handling overseas emergencies and actively providing emergency services and support to citizens and their families.
In the next step, we will continue to wholeheartedly do practical and beneficial things and solve difficulties for the people, providing more high-quality, efficient and convenient immigration management services for the vast number of people entering and leaving the country, continuously enhancing people's sense of fulfillment, happiness and security.
Thank you!