Harbin, China, January 13, 2025: India's Amitesh Mishra became the first athlete from overseas to enter China using the identity card for the Asian Winter Games in Harbin.
“I am really looking forward to it. This is my second Asian Games. I think China generally does a great job hosting the event,” Mishra, a speed skater, told CCTV News on his arrival in Harbin on Sunday, January 12.
Mishra, 26, competed in roller sports at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta and Palembang, Indonesia.
Foreign athletes and related staff of the Asian Winter Games can enter and exit China multiple times using their valid passports or other international travel documents, along with their registration cards for the Harbin Games, from January 1 to March 1, 2025.
“Dedicated channels have been opened for the Asian Winter Games and we will adjust the number of channels and border patrol staff in real-time according to passenger flow to ensure efficient and convenient passage for travellers,” said Geng Fuquan from Harbin Exit-Entry Border Inspection Station, according to CCTV.
According to the official website of the 9th Asian Winter Games, the fast-track channel at Harbin Airport opened on Friday, January 10.
The 9th Asian Winter Games will run from February 7-14 with six sports, 11 disciplines and 64 events.
China has previously hosted the Asian Winter Games twice, in Harbin in 1996 and Changchun in 2007.
Source: Global Times