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The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) announced today (December 21) that confirmation was received from the Government of Romania that Romania has decided to grant visa-free access for HKSAR passport holders for a visit up to 90 days with effect from January 1, 2002.

"We warmly welcome the decision of the Government of Romania. This is a further achievement in our efforts to enhance travel convenience for HKSAR passport holders," a Government spokesman said.

"The visa-free grant marks a vote of confidence by Romania in our immigration control under the 'one country, two systems' arrangement," the spokesman added.

Romania is the 104th country which agrees to grant visa-free access for HKSAR passport holders.

As a parallel development and following a review, the Government of the HKSAR will grant visa-free access for nationals of Romania for a visit up to 90 days with effect from January 1, 2002.

End/Friday, December 21, 2001

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