Jiji Press:

The Chinese government has proposed expanding the reception of foreign tourists, but free travel is still not permitted within the Xizang Autonomous Region. What are the reasons for this? Will these restrictions be relaxed in the future? Thank you.

Gama Cedain:

I would like to invite Mr. Xu to answer your questions.

Xu Zhitao:

Thank you for your questions. Xizang is an open region. We have always welcomed foreign visitors to tour Xizang, as well as foreign journalists to conduct reporting here. However, due to Xizang's unique natural environment, geographical conditions and reception capacity, we implement certain management and safety measures when receiving foreign visitors.

The current Party committee and government of Xizang attach great importance to further expanding openness. An open society is essential for vitality. Speaking as the government official overseeing cultural and tourism affairs, we have actively worked to attract more foreign tourists and investors to Xizang. In recent years, the number of foreign visitors has steadily increased, with Xizang welcoming 320,000 foreign tourists in 2024.

Looking ahead, Xizang will accelerate its pace of opening up. We will also provide more convenient access for foreigners to visit Xizang based on improvements in Xizang's infrastructure and reception capabilities. Thank you.