Maria Azzolina (second from left), president of the Italy-China Institute, leads a delegation at the 1000 Miglia Experience China event in Guangzhou in November. CHINA DAILY

China's decision to implement a visa-free policy for Italian nationals has significantly simplified travel to the country, providing a welcome boost for tourism and business exchanges. Maria Azzolina, president of the Italy-China Institute, believes the policy will encourage more Italians to explore the vast opportunities China has to offer.

Since December, 2023, when China introduced visa-free access for five countries, including Italy, the list has expanded to encompass 38 countries and territories. This initiative has streamlined travel logistics, reducing both time and financial costs for travelers. Azzolina, who is also the managing director of Private Incentive — a company that facilitates Italian delegations to China — has visited China ten times in the last year. She highlighted the policy's significant impact on removing one of the major obstacles for Italian tourists and business professionals.

"Travelers no longer have to go through the cumbersome visa process, which saves time and money," Azzolina said. "This is especially beneficial for businesses that need to act at the last minute. The visa-free policy eliminates a potential hurdle."

The policy has already begun reshaping travel patterns. Azzolina noted that the elimination of visa requirements has encouraged airlines to expand direct flights between Italy and China.

"From Milan alone, there are now 35 flights weekly to various Chinese cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi'an, and even lesser-known destinations like Zhengzhou," she said. "This makes it much easier for Italian travelers to explore different regions of China. Previously, flights were limited mainly to Beijing and Shanghai, but now the variety of routes reflects increased interest and accessibility."

This enhanced connectivity has proved advantageous for both tourists and businesses. Azzolina's company specializes in organizing business delegations and cultural exchanges, and she emphasized how the visa-free policy facilitates the quick organization of such trips.

"For businesses, this policy is a game-changer," she explained. "Previously, the need to apply for a visa at short notice could disrupt plans. Now, Italian companies can send delegations more flexibly. While the business travel segment is still recovering, this policy will undoubtedly accelerate the process. It aligns perfectly with the fast-paced nature of modern business."

Beyond business, Azzolina is optimistic about the policy's role in fostering cultural exchanges. Over the past two years, she has participated in numerous events in China organized by institutions such as Tsinghua University.

"China's open-door policy makes cultural and academic exchanges much easier," she said. "These exchanges are vital for strengthening mutual understanding between our nations."

Looking to the future, Azzolina hopes Italy will reciprocate by simplifying visa procedures for Chinese nationals. "We need a bilateral agreement," she said. "Chinese tourists face lengthy visa processes to visit Italy, which limits their ability to travel here. A reciprocal arrangement would benefit both countries immensely."

The visa-free policy has not only facilitated travel but also fostered stronger business ties and cultural understanding between Italy and China. As Azzolina put it, "Going to China is now as easy as traveling to any other country. This newfound accessibility is bound to strengthen relations in every sphere".

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