BEIJING — China on Friday warned it could take reciprocal countermeasures after the United States shortened the length of visas for foreign journalists, including imposing a 90-day limit for Chinese journalists, in a move Beijing called discriminatory.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said the United States should withdraw the new visa regulations and protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese journalists working in the country. He said China reserved the right to take reciprocal measures, without specifying what actions Beijing might consider.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced the revised rules on Thursday, ending the previous system that allowed foreign journalists to remain in the United States for the duration of their status while meeting eligibility requirements. Under the new policy, foreign journalists would generally be limited to 240-day stays, while Chinese journalists would face a 90-day limit with the possibility of extensions.
The U.S. government said the changes were intended to strengthen oversight of visa holders, while press freedom groups have raised concerns that shorter visa periods could hinder the ability of foreign journalists to work in the United States.
The latest dispute adds to longstanding tensions between Washington and Beijing over media access and treatment of journalists. Both governments have previously imposed restrictions affecting reporters from the other country.
China’s warning did not include details of any planned response, and the U.S. government has not announced further measures related to Beijing’s statement. The situation remains subject to further developments.
