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Download Chongqing will allow transit passengers 72-hour visa-free stays starting next month, in a move aimed at boosting the local economy and tourism. The new policy will apply to visitors from 45 countries, the municipal government announced on Wednesday, and follows similar decisions taken by Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chengdu. Ai Yang, deputy secretary-general of the Chongqing government, said, "The policy will increase cooperation between Chongqing and foreign countries, boosting tourism, commerce and cultural exchanges." Jean Bruno, a Frenchman who has worked in the legal sector in Chongqing for three years, said the decision will boost cultural and performance exchanges between Chongqing and overseas countries. "It will benefit artists and troupes the most, making it much easier to stage touring shows in Chongqing," Bruno said, adding that it will also help some of his friends who are interested in touring Asia. But he said the policy needs more promotion among foreigners. "It is worth making more people aware of this visitor-friendly policy," he added. Visitors eligible for visa-free stays must have air tickets to a third country with confirmed dates and seats, and visas where required. A service center for transit passengers will open at Chongqing airport. "The airport will provide services including currency exchange and travel advice at the international terminal," said Pei Mingxue, the airport's deputy manager. | 
