The Twenty-seven will request a negative COVID-19 test from travelers from China before leaving the country

BRUSSELS, Jan. 4 (EUROPA PRESS) –

The Twenty-seven will ask all passengers leaving China for the Member States of the European Union (EU) a negative test for COVID-19 carried out no more than 48 hours before leaving the country, they will carry out sewage tests on planes and airports and also random tests on arrival in the EU due to the easing of travel restrictions by the Chinese government from January 8.

This is stated in the institutional declaration of the Swedish presidency of the Council after the meeting of the Member States on Wednesday, in the presence of the countries associated with Schengen, within the framework of the integrated political response to the crises to discuss the epidemiological situation in China and the coordinated EU response to the outbreak of COVID-19 infections.

The use of a mask will also be recommended on flights to or from China and it has been agreed to advise incoming and outgoing international travelers, as well as aircraft and airport personnel, in relation to personal hygiene and health measures.

Member States will also continue to promote the exchange of vaccines, including booster doses, in particular among the most vulnerable population groups.

This statement supports the recommendations made this Tuesday by the European Commission after the meeting of the Health Security Committee (CSS), in which the possibility of carrying out pre-flight tests on travelers from China was already raised.

EU health authorities, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) will continue to monitor the epidemiological situation in the EU and developments in China, including the level of data sharing, in order to ensure EU coordination of the measures deemed necessary.

For their part, Member States have agreed to assess the situation and review the measures introduced by mid-January 2023.