China calls for efforts to achieve political stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina

A Chinese envoy on Tuesday called for efforts to achieve political stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) as soon as possible.

For some time, the political situation in BiH has remained volatile. Constant disputes between different ethnic groups and political parties have severely affected the country's internal stability and economic development agenda, said Sun Lei, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations.

It is important to achieve political stability as soon as possible, he told the Security Council.

Sun noted that BiH will hold general elections this year, which will determine the trajectory of both the country and the wider Balkan region for the foreseeable future.

China hopes that the country's two political entities, three constituent peoples and all political parties will maintain calm and restraint, show mutual tolerance, and foster a stable and enabling political atmosphere to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the elections, Sun said.

Over the past few years, against the backdrop of political unrest, BiH has been confronted with severe challenges, including slow economic growth, escalating inflation and labor outflow, the envoy said. China hopes that all parties will prioritize the interests of the entire population, forge synergy in governance, and create a favorable environment for rapid economic development and for the people to live secure and happy lives.

China also calls for increased international support and assistance to help the country expand investment cooperation in areas that secure people's livelihoods, thereby advancing implementation of the sustainable development agenda, he added.

Sun said that China's position on the issue of BiH is consistent and clear. China respects BiH's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, as well as the independent choice of its people regarding the country's future. China remains committed to developing friendly relations with all ethnic groups in BiH, supporting its ethnic reconciliation process, and playing a constructive role in maintaining peace and stability in the country and tranquility in the wider region, he said.

China calls for efforts to achieve political stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina

China calls for efforts to achieve political stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina

China's appeal as a travel destination is growing globally thanks to its stunning scenery, visa-free entry policies and well-developed transportation system, according to international tourism industry professionals.

Jason Thomas, head of Business Development and Partnerships for Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary in Australia, said he was thoroughly impressed by the stunning natural beauty when visiting south China's Guilin City.

"Every direction I've looked today has been a completely new scene. You'll see many people coming to visit from Australia. Very much worthwhile to get into your country," he said.

Many passport holders around the world are also now able to enter China without a visa. As more travelers take advantage of this convenient policy, word of mouth has spread about sightseeing opportunities and cultural experiences in the country.

"Before, I heard Russian people, their favorite routes are Türkiye and Egypt. And as of now, I'm starting to hear more and more from my friends that they prefer to travel to China and they would love to come back later, again and again. Visa-free was extended, and I think this is a great opportunity for people to come here every year and looking for the new opportunity to organize their trips to China," said a director from a Russian tourism company.

Tourism professionals also hailed China's increasingly well-developed transportation network for foreign visitors.

"Actually from South America, there's more routes nowadays. We could fly now from Bogota to Mexico actually. And then you don't have to get off the plane and then you fly straight to Shenzhen. So I think you guys are like extremely well prepared to actually offer the world, which is leaning towards this type of tourism in China," said a plane ticket distributor from Colombia.

China boasts huge potential for inbound tourism: int'l tourism professionals