(MENAFN) President Vladimir Putin has authorized a decree permitting visa-free entry to Russia for Chinese nationals, allowing them stays of up to 30 days.

The policy reciprocates Beijing's recent decision extending identical visa-free privileges to Russian citizens. Last September, China implemented the arrangement on a one-year experimental basis to enhance cross-border mobility between both nations.

Chinese visitors can now enter Russia without visas for private visits, business, tourism, or to take part in scientific, cultural, political, economic, or sporting events. The measure takes effect as of December 1, and will initially last until September 14, 2026.

Putin previously welcomed Beijing's decision to allow visa-free entry for Russians, saying it would "undoubtedly" help deepen cultural and economic ties between the two countries and pledged that Moscow would respond with reciprocal steps.

The diplomatic breakthrough is already manifesting in tourism statistics, with Russian visitor numbers to China surging 30-40% year-over-year throughout October.

Two years prior, Russia and China agreed to allow visa-free travel for organized tour groups, a move that also helped lift tourism flows. Between January and July this year, 237,000 Russians visited China, while 262,000 Chinese tourists traveled to Russia.

Eight Russian airlines currently operate 36 routes to China, while ten Chinese carriers serve 24 routes to Russia, totaling around 230 flights per week.

According to Russia's flag carrier, Aeroflot, passenger traffic to China nearly tripled in 2024, reaching 830,000 travelers. Demand was concentrated on major destinations such as Hainan Island, Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong.

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