China to impose reciprocal visa restrictions on US personnel over Tibet

By Berk Kutay Gokmen

ISTANBUL (AA) – China on Monday announced that it will impose reciprocal visa restrictions on US personnel that demonstrate "egregious behavior" related to the country’s Tibet Autonomous Region.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Tibet—referred to as "Xizang" in Chinese—is strictly an internal matter for Beijing.

“The US’ arbitrary visa restrictions on Chinese officials under the pretext of Xizang-related issues violate international law and basic norms,” said the foreign ministry spokesperson at a news conference.

Beijing's statement came after the US imposed visa restrictions on Chinese officials over Tibet late last month.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had claimed that China had blocked access to American diplomats, journalists, and others wishing to enter Tibet.

The spokesman noted that China has expressed its openness to welcoming friendly foreign nationals to visit, travel, and engage in business activities in the region.

Beijing stands against any country or individual that uses “so-called human rights, religion, or culture as an excuse to interfere in Xizang affairs” and opposes any party that uses visits to Tibet as a pretext for “disruption and sabotage,” Lin Jian added.