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Russia-EU visas: Lavrov's pledge on easier travel

Russia will continue pressing ahead in talks with the European Commission "as much as possible" towards visa-free travel for short-stay visits in both directions

© EPA/SIMELA PANTZARTZI

MOSCOW, December 03. /ITAR-TASS/. Russia will continue pressing ahead in talks with the European Commission "as much as possible" towards visa-free travel for short-stay visits in both directions, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told an assembly of heads of territories in the Russian Federation on Tuesday.

"It would be useful if representatives of local authorities, during their contacts with partners from the European Union, demonstrate by concrete examples a deterrent factor created by the visa barriers in broadening interregional contacts. There were such incidents, and we know them," Lavrov said.

"The Russian Foreign Ministry in its future dialogue with the European Commission and member states of the European Union will pay proper attention to problems of border co-operation. This should develop on an equal basis, taking into account the mutual interests and the needs of our regions," the minister added.

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