Greece Will Not Impose COVID Travel Restrictions From China

Greece has no intention of imposing restrictions on travelers from China over COVID-19, Greece’s National Public Health Organization (EODY) announced on Saturday.

“Our country will not impose restrictive measures for international movements, in accordance with the recommendations of international organizations and the EU,” EODY said in a press release.

The recent surge of infections in China following the easing of COVID-19 response measures is not a point of much concern in terms of the course of the pandemic. There is currently no evidence that a new variant has emerged, the statement added.

Greek authorities remain vigilant in protecting public health, as the European Union (EU) follows developments closely. China is lifting international travel restrictions in early January, EODY said, and arrivals from China to EU member states are expected.

Air China launched a new direct flight between China’s largest city Shanghai and Athens in late December at Athens International Airport (AIA), the first direct flight between the two cities.

Passengers were welcomed by Air China and AIA officials with balloons, desserts, and a mascot during an event at the check-in area.

It is one of two direct flights operated by Air China each week, linking Greece to China.

The Athens-Beijing direct air link, inaugurated in 2017, was suspended in the winter of 2020 due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The route resumed this summer.