Bharat and Russia are set to embark on a landmark dialogue that could pave the way for visa-free tourism between the two nations, aiming to significantly boost tourism flows. The initial round of discussions is scheduled for June, with both countries exploring the feasibility of a bilateral agreement that could be finalized by the end of the year, according to a report by Sputnik.
Russian Economic Development Ministry’s Multilateral Economic Cooperation and Special Projects Department Director Nikita Kondratyev shared insights into the upcoming talks at the Russia-Islamic World: KazanForum 2024 held in Russia’s Kazan. Kondratyev highlighted the progress in negotiations concerning group visa-free trips.
“We are nearing the final stages of internal coordination with the Indian delegation and will soon discuss a draft agreement,” Kondratyev explained.
Expressing optimism about the timeline, he added, “I think that in June we will hold the first consultations with them to discuss the draft agreement. We plan to sign by the end of the year.”
This initiative is part of Russia’s bigger strategy to strengthen international tourism and cultural exchange. Earlier in February, the Russian Ministry announced its intention to implement visa-free exchanges with Bharat by the end of 2024, highlighting the strategic importance of Bharat in Russia’s tourism and economic plans.
Russia’s visa-free tourism program is not exclusive to Bharat. The country successfully launched similar initiatives with China and Iran starting August 1, 2023. These agreements have facilitated easier group travel, fostering greater understanding and cooperation between Russia and these nations.
The proposed visa-free arrangement with Bharat, if successful, is expected to open new avenues for travellers, enhance cultural exchanges, and strengthen economic ties between the two historically cooperative nations. As formal talks begin in June, stakeholders in the tourism industry are keenly watching for what could be a significant boost to tourism and people-to-people relations between Bharat and Russia.
