Putin Values the Importance of Abolishing Visa Regime with China
Russian President Vladimir Putin has emphasized the significance of abolishing the visa regime between Russia and China, stating that this decision will encourage an increase in tourist flows. This was reported by TASS.
During a meeting with a representative of the Chinese Communist Party's Central Committee, the Russian leader highlighted that the visa regime will not only facilitate travel for citizens but will also have a positive impact on business development and the expansion of business ties between the two countries.
"This is, in general, a very kind gesture from the leadership of the People's Republic of China," the Russian leader added.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Zhaokun announced that Chinese authorities have introduced a visa-free regime for Russians starting from September 15. According to his statement, the pilot project allowing holders of ordinary foreign passports to enter the country without a visa will be in effect until September 14 next year.
The Russian Ministry of Economic Development has described the decision to abolish the visa regime by China as an unexpected move. Nikita Kondratev, director of the department for multilateral economic cooperation and special projects, stated that Russia does not currently plan to implement similar measures or abolish visas for Chinese citizens.