Russia and Turkey struck a momentous deal on March 9, 2020, that will allow their citizens to travel visa-free to each other`s country. The deal, called the “Russia-Turkey visa agreement,” is expected to boost tourism and business between the two nations.
Under the agreement, Turkish citizens will be able to stay in Russia for up to 90 days without a visa, while Russian citizens can stay in Turkey for up to 60 days without a visa. The agreement applies to those traveling for tourism, business, or cultural purposes.
The move has been welcomed by both countries as a major step towards strengthening ties. It is expected to increase the flow of tourists between Russia and Turkey, which is already one of the most popular destinations for Russian tourists. In 2019, around 7 million Russian tourists visited Turkey, making it the largest source of foreign tourists for the country.
The Turkey-Russia visa agreement is also expected to boost trade between the two nations. Russia is Turkey`s second-largest trading partner, and the two countries have recently increased cooperation in a number of areas, including energy and defense.
The agreement has been in the works for some time. Turkey first proposed the idea in 2019, and negotiations began shortly thereafter. It was approved by the Turkish parliament in January 2020 and by the Russian government in February 2020.
The visa-free regime is expected to come into effect in April 2020, pending the finalization of administrative procedures by both countries.
For travelers, the agreement means that they will no longer have to go through the hassle and expense of obtaining a visa before traveling to Russia or Turkey. It also means that they will be able to spend more time in each country, exploring its culture, history, and natural beauty.
However, it is worth noting that some restrictions will apply. For example, Turkish citizens will still need a visa if they plan to work or study in Russia, and vice versa. Additionally, both countries have the right to deny entry to travelers who pose a security risk or who do not meet certain criteria.
In conclusion, the Turkey-Russia visa agreement is a positive development that will benefit both countries. It is expected to boost tourism and trade, while also making travel easier and more convenient for citizens of both nations. As the two countries continue to strengthen their ties, the visa-free regime is likely to pave the way for more cooperation and collaboration in a variety of areas.