Russia Planning Visa-Free Agreements with Nine African and Middle Eastern Nations

Russia is moving forward with plans to establish visa-free travel agreements with a number of African and Middle Eastern countries, according to Alexei Klimov, head of the Consular Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry. In an interview with TASS, Klimov shared that negotiations are underway with nine “friendly countries” to allow visa-free entry for short-term trips, typically up to 90 days.

While specific countries have not been named and a timeline has yet to be finalised, Klimov indicated that discussions are in various stages, depending on the specific partner nation. He emphasised that official announcements will be made once the bilateral agreements are finalised and formalised into documented policies.

Also read: Africa’s Visa Openness Flourishes Facilitating Continental Travel and Trade

This initiative aligns with Russia’s broader efforts to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties with African nations. Russia has already established visa-free regimes with countries such as Angola, Mozambique, Malawi, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tunisia, and Morocco, reflecting its growing influence on the African continent. These agreements aim to promote trade, tourism, and political cooperation by facilitating easier travel between Russia and these nations.

The push for visa-free agreements comes at a time when Russia is also increasing its strategic engagement in regions like the Sahel, where several nations have recently experienced political instability. As Moscow seeks to expand its geopolitical influence in Africa, these visa-free regimes are expected to be a key component of its broader objectives, enhancing mobility and fostering deeper diplomatic, economic, and military ties across the continent.

This initiative reflects Russia’s ongoing efforts to replace diminishing Western influence in Africa with stronger partnerships, positioning itself as a key player in the region’s future development.