Xi and Putin Discuss Visa-Free Travel Amid Global Concerns in Bishkek

In a significant meeting held on August 31, 2026, in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in discussions centered around establishing a permanent visa-free travel agreement between their nations.

During their dialogue, which took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, President Putin expressed Russia's readiness to collaborate with China on making the visa-free regime a lasting arrangement, should it be deemed beneficial by Beijing. He highlighted that such travel freedom had already boosted tourism between the two countries by an impressive 43% in the first half of the year.

The visa-free travel initiative began when Putin signed a decree in December 2025, allowing Chinese visitors to stay in Russia for up to 30 days without a visa, valid until September 14, 2026. China reciprocated with a similar arrangement for Russian citizens, extending this policy until the end of 2027.

President Xi emphasized the importance of strengthening China-Russia relations amidst a changing global landscape filled with uncertainties, reaffirming their commitment to peace and cooperation.

Source: www.thehindu.com