Russia and China are discussing the possibility of extending the duration of visa-free stays for tourists to 21 days. The minimum group size for tourist trips could also be reduced to three people, according to Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova.
She mentioned that Russia’s diplomatic efforts to liberalize the conditions for mutual travel between the two countries are ongoing. Zakharova also reminded that the countries have an agreement in place that simplifies the process of obtaining visas, as well as agreements on mutual visa waivers with China’s Special Administrative Regions, Hong Kong (since 2009) and Macau (since 2012).
"Since August 2023, Chinese citizens have been able to use a unified electronic visa, which allows them to stay in Russia for up to 16 days for guest, business, tourist, or for participation in scientific, cultural, socio-political, economic, and sports events," Zakharova said in an interview with Rossiyskaya Gazeta.
In an interview with SenatInform, Natalia Kosikhina, a member of the Federation Council's Committee on Social Policy, pointed out that Russia has always been attractive to Chinese tourists, who are interested in Russia’s culture, traditions, landmarks, and people.
According to the lawmaker, Moscow and St. Petersburg are traditionally the most interesting and visited cities for Chinese tourists. However, Kosikhina believes that given the rapid development of Russia’s tourism sector, there is a need to attract visitors from China to other regions as well.
Earlier, Senator Vladimir Dzhabarov suggested the possibility of visa abolition with China. He noted that Moscow and Beijing are currently actively developing cooperation in various fields, based on mutual respect and consideration of each other's interests.
Senator Andrey Denisov emphasized that in the current situation, Russia and China are doing everything possible to facilitate mutual travel, communication between citizens, and maintaining family, friendly, and business connections.
Federation Council Chairperson Valentina Matviyenko stated that in the era of "irreversible, tectonic changes" currently affecting the entire international relations system, the strategic goal of strengthening the comprehensive partnership with China remains unchanged.
Source: https://senatinform.ru/news/rossiya_i_kitay_mogut_uvelichit_srok_bezvizovykh_turisticheskikh_poezdok_do_21_dnya/
