Athletes from Pyeongtaek,the Republic of Korea pose for a group photo during the 2018 Xiamen Marathon on Jan 7. [Photo/xmfo.gov.cn]
At the invitation of Xiamen, guests from its ROK sister city Pyeongtaek visited Xiamen to attend the 2018 Xiamen Marathon from Jan 6 to 9.
The two cities have maintained close exchanges in sports since 2002 when they established sister city ties. This is the ninth time that the athletes from Pyeongtaek attended the Xiamen Marathon.
On Jan 7, Kong Suting, vice president of the Xiamen Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, met with the ROK guests and congratulated them on their excellent performances in the marathon.
Kong noted that Xiamen has been organizing the marathon since 2003 and that the Xiamen Marathon is considered as one of the most influential and renowned games both home and abroad. The growing popularity of the game on the international stage can't be gained without the support of sister cities, according to Kong. She also invited more ROK athletes to attend the Xiamen Marathon, and promote the exchanges between Xiamen and Pyeongtaek.
Chong Sung-chae, head of the ROK delegation from Pyeongtaek, said he was impressed by Xiamen's efforts in ensuring the success of the marathon and its beautiful environment. He also invited Xiamen athletes to his city for marathon.
China announced and implemented on May 15 a policy allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country's coastline.
China and Georgia are set to waive visa requirements for travelers starting May 28.
