Putin and Xi discuss visa-free travel at Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit

Russian President Putin met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit.

'WE ARE READY TO WORK TO MAKE IT PERMANENT'

In his speech during the meeting with Xi, Putin stated that relations between Russia and China have developed successfully in all areas and expressed his condolences for the deaths of people as a result of the floods in Nepal and Tibet. Putin also said, "We are ready to work to make the visa-free travel arrangement between Russia and China permanent."

'A MUTUAL STAY OF UP TO 30 DAYS IS POSSIBLE'

Citizens of both countries can stay up to 30 days each other during their travels for touristic, commercial and private purposes. In July this year, Russia and China decided to extend mutual visa-free travel until December 31, 2027.