BEIJING — China's National Immigration Administration (NIA) will strengthen COVID-19 prevention measures for passengers entering and leaving the country on account of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.

Immigration authorities were asked to set up special areas for checks on personnel relevant to the Winter Olympics at entry and exit points and implement strict anti-epidemic measures.

Stressing continuing strict entry and exit policies, the NIA encouraged people to avoid unnecessary and non-urgent travel abroad.

It also vowed cooperation with law enforcement authorities of neighboring countries in border patrols to crack down on criminal activities and prevent the spread of the virus.