On Monday, January 19, 2026, the China–Armenia visa-free agreement celebrated its sixth anniversary, marking a pivotal moment in cross-border travel under the Belt and Road Initiative.
In recent years, Urumqi, the vibrant capital of the Chinese mainland's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, has emerged as a primary gateway for travelers heading to Armenia and neighboring Caucasus destinations. The city's modern airport and growing flight network have transformed it into a hub where culture and commerce intersect.
The visa-free arrangement has injected new energy into people-to-people ties: from art festivals in Yerevan to academic exchange programs and business delegations exploring tech startups. Young global citizens are seizing the opportunity to navigate Silk Road routes with fewer hurdles and richer experiences.
Local authorities report a steady rise in visa-free entries through Urumqi, while airlines have boosted capacity to meet growing demand. Travel planners note that seamless procedures and improved infrastructure shave hours off traditional itineraries, making the journey more accessible for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and students alike.
A freelance developer from Berlin notes that streamlined transit through Urumqi has opened new opportunities: 'I can attend a hackathon in Yerevan midweek and be back by Friday, broadening my network across cultures.'
As the agreement enters its seventh year, industry experts believe that further investments in digital services, multilingual support, and green transport options will solidify Urumqi's status as a Silk Road gateway, driving sustainable cooperation and deeper mutual understanding across regions.
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Visa-free milestone boosts Belt and Road connectivity via Xinjiang hub
cgtn.com
