India to Offer Free 30-Day Visas for Russian Citizens: PM Modi Strengthens Bilateral Relations

Prime Minister Modi emphasized that citizens of both nations have maintained profound affection for each other over many decades.

New Delhi:

During a joint press statement with Russian President Vladimir Putin following their discussions at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the importance of cultural connections between India and Russia. He announced that India will soon introduce a free 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian citizens, underscoring that people-to-people relations have always been central to bilateral ties.

Prime Minister Modi remarked that for decades, citizens of both nations have shared deep affection, respect, and warmth for one another, and several new initiatives have been implemented to strengthen these bonds.

"We have recently opened two new Indian consulates in Russia. This development will facilitate easier interaction between citizens of both countries and enhance mutual closeness. Earlier in October, hundreds of thousands of devotees in 'Kalmykia' received blessings from the sacred relics of Lord Buddha at the International Buddhist Forum," stated Prime Minister Modi.

The Prime Minister also expressed his delight in announcing the upcoming launch of a free 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian citizens.

"Manpower mobility will not only connect our people but also generate new strength and opportunities for both nations. I am pleased that two agreements have been signed today to promote this objective. We will also collaborate on vocational education, skilling, and training. Additionally, we will increase exchanges between students, scholars, and sportspersons of both countries," the Prime Minister added.

Earlier in October, the exposition of Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha from India received an unprecedented response in Russia's Kalmykia, demonstrating spiritual devotion and shared cultural heritage. Thousands of devotees paid homage to the relics, enshrined at the renowned Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery, commonly known as the "Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha."

Last month, during the inauguration of the Consulates General of India in Yekaterinburg and Kazan in Russia, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that these new missions would deepen bilateral engagement and mark a new phase in the relationship between the two countries.

"I'm confident that the opening of these consulates will not only enhance our diplomatic presence in Russia but will serve as a catalyst to further boost trade, increase tourism, and strengthen economic, scientific, technology, academic, and cultural ties between our two countries," the External Affairs Minister stated.