In a move aimed at ensuring the safety of travelers, the Taiwan’s Tourism Administration has called for an immediate halt to the recruitment of customers for tour groups to China. The decision comes in the wake of Beijing’s inaction regarding the approval of Chinese groups visiting Taiwan and its unilateral alteration of flight routes over the Taiwan Strait.
Of particular concern is China’s M503 route, which would take planes as close as 4.2 nautical miles (7.8 km) from the median line, raising fears of potential incidents. In light of these developments, the Tourism Administration has deemed it necessary to suspend trips to China.
However, the administration has clarified that this decision will not impact fully booked tours scheduled to travel between March and June 1. Preparations for the resumption of Taiwan tours to China had been underway, with plans to commence in March after the Lunar New Year holiday. Nevertheless, the evolving situation and concerns over travel safety prompted the administration’s call for action.
Effective immediately, travel agencies are instructed to cease organizing tour groups to China. Additionally, the administration has called upon China to reconsider its stance and allow Chinese groups to visit Taiwan once again. It is worth noting that these travel restrictions were initially imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the ongoing complexities in international travel dynamics.
(Source: Taiwan News | India Times | Focus Taiwan)
