UN Partnership Boosts Gansu Tourism with Simplified Visa Process
With its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, Gansu province in northwest China has long been a popular destination for domestic tourists. Now, thanks to a partnership with the United Nations, the province is hoping to attract more international visitors by simplifying the visa application process.
UN Partnership Opens Doors for Gansu Tourism
Gansu has been chosen by the UN as a pilot province for a project aimed at boosting sustainable tourism in China and attracting more overseas visitors. As part of the project, the UN has worked together with the provincial government to streamline the visa application process and make it easier for foreign tourists to visit the region.
The partnership has already had a positive impact on Gansu's tourism industry, with visitor numbers increasing steadily over the past year. In the first half of 2021, the province welcomed more than 7 million visitors, with a significant proportion of those coming from overseas.
Simplified Visa Process
One of the key initiatives introduced as part of the UN partnership is a simplified visa application process. Previously, overseas visitors had to navigate a complicated and time-consuming application process, which often deterred many from visiting the region. Now, the process has been streamlined, with an online application system and the introduction of visa-free travel for certain nationalities.
The visa-free policy, currently in place for 15 countries including the US and Japan, allows visitors to enter Gansu for up to 15 days without the need for a visa. For other nationalities, the online visa application process is now much simpler, with a reduced processing time of just three working days.
Promoting Sustainable Tourism
Along with simplifying the visa application process, the UN partnership is also focused on promoting sustainable tourism in Gansu. As part of this initiative, the provincial government has introduced policies aimed at reducing the environmental impact of tourism and preserving the region's cultural heritage.
For example, the government has set up a system for managing tourist numbers at popular attractions such as the Mogao Caves and the Jiayuguan Pass. This system ensures that visitor numbers are controlled to avoid overcrowding and preserve the site for future generations.
Future Prospects for Gansu Tourism
The UN partnership has already had a significant impact on Gansu's tourism industry, and the future looks bright for the region. With the simplified visa application process and a focus on sustainable tourism, Gansu is well positioned to attract more international visitors and boost its status as a world-class tourist destination.
As the world emerges from the pandemic, interest in travel is likely to surge, and Gansu is well placed to capitalize on this trend. Whether it's exploring the stunning natural scenery of the Qilian Mountains or experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the Silk Road, Gansu offers something for every traveler.
By working in partnership with the UN, the provincial government is taking concrete steps to ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared in a sustainable and equitable way, benefitting both locals and visitors alike.
