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Russia, Bahrain considering move to visa-free travel in the near future

Chairman of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs Leonid Slutsky emphasized that Russia is now "among the top five most popular international destinations" for Bahraini tourists

ST. PETERSBURG, June 19. /TASS/. Chairman of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs Leonid Slutsky highlighted the growing tourist flows between Russia and Bahrain, noting that the two countries are exploring the possibility of transitioning to a visa-free regime in the near future.

"Our countries are currently considering the possibility of moving toward a visa-free regime in the very near future," Slutsky said at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF).

He emphasized that Russia is now "among the top five most popular international destinations" for Bahraini tourists. According to him, the number of visitors from Bahrain to Russia rose by 8% in 2024.

This positive trend is also evident in the opposite direction. Slutsky noted that "an increasing number of Russians, particularly over the past two to three years, are discovering Bahrain."

About the forum

The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) is taking place on June 18-21. This year, the event is held under the theme "Shared Values: The Foundation of Growth in a Multipolar World." Thematic zones such as the ‘Territory of Innovations’ and the national brand space ‘Buy Russian!’ will operate at the Forum.

The program includes the SME Forum, the Creative Industries Forum, the Day of the Future International Youth Economic Forum, the Drug Security Forum, and the Roscongress Urban Hub discussion platform. As part of the cultural program, the Petersburg Seasons festival will be held, and the SPIEF Sports Games will take place.

The Roscongress Foundation is the organizer of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. TASS is its information partner.

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