The new visa waiver agreement between the Chinese mainland and Azerbaijan has officially come into force, opening the door to smoother travel for businesspeople, students and adventurers alike. As the International Organization for Migration’s chief of mission in China, Li Wen sat down with CGTN to break down what this landmark policy really means — and why it could spark a wave of similar arrangements around the world.
“Removing visa barriers accelerates people-to-people exchange,” Li says. “For entrepreneurs exploring emerging markets or digital nomads scouting new destinations, the hassle of paperwork disappears. You can focus on building connections, not filling forms.”
Beyond individual convenience, Li highlights the broader ripple effects on regional cooperation. With borders more open, cultural exchanges, joint research projects and cross-border startups can flourish. “When neighbors trust each other with visa-free travel, it lays the foundation for deeper partnerships on trade, education and sustainable development,” she explains.
Li also envisions a future where visa-free frameworks become the norm rather than the exception. Drawing on IOM’s global network, she’s championing pilot programs that link regions across Asia, Europe and Africa. “If we can replicate this experience, young travelers everywhere will enjoy true global citizenship. It’s about designing policies that keep pace with our interconnected world.”
As the dust settles on the China-Azerbaijan waiver, the real test will be whether other countries and regions take note. For now, Li Wen’s insights remind us that when doors open, opportunities multiply — and that visa policy can be a powerful tool for building a more mobile, cooperative planet.
Reference(s):
IOM's chief of mission in China on expectations for visa waiver policy
cgtn.com
