(MENAFN) Russia will soon allow Chinese citizens to enter the country without a visa, President Vladimir Putin announced, according to reports. The move mirrors China’s recent decision to extend visa-free access to Russian nationals.

Putin made the announcement during talks in Moscow with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who was in the capital for a session of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s (SCO) Council of Heads of Government. He welcomed Beijing’s decision, stating it would “undoubtedly” strengthen cultural and economic ties between the two nations.

“From our side, very soon, reciprocal measures will come into force for citizens of the People’s Republic of China visiting Russia,” Putin said, noting that the policy would further boost bilateral cooperation.

China began a one-year trial of visa-free entry for Russian travelers in September. Travel figures have already reflected the change, with a 30–40% year-on-year rise in Russian visitors to China in October, Tatiana Lobach, deputy chair of the State Duma’s tourism committee, told reports.

“People want to learn about the culture, nature, and traditions of a friendly country,” she added.

Two years ago, Russia and China also permitted tour groups to travel visa-free between the countries, which contributed to increased tourist traffic. Between January and July this year, 237,000 Russians visited China, while 262,000 Chinese travelers came to Russia.

Currently, eight Russian airlines operate 36 routes to China, and ten Chinese carriers fly 24 routes to Russia, with a combined total of 230 flights per week.

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