Putin proposes permanent China-Russia visa-free agreement

President Vladimir Putin on Monday in Bishkek urged President Xi Jinping to consider the feasibility of a permanent visa-free agreement between China and Russia.

Both leaders, as well as their counterparts from Belarus, Iran, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, are attending the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Kyrgyzstan.

Putin and Xi met on the sidelines of the annual conference, where Xi reiterated “the vital mission” of the SCO to maintain stability and promote the region’s advancement.

“The foundation of our bilateral relations will only grow stronger,” the Chinese leader stated.

He added that “We will confidently move forward towards a better future.”

Xi said that despite growing “uncertainty” and “rapid changes unseen for centuries”, nations must continue to strive for peace, development, cooperation and mutual benefit.

Putin praised the Russia-China comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation, citing ongoing projects in energy, manufacturing, space exploration, transport and logistics.

He said reciprocal deliveries of agricultural products had been expanding, with a 34% increase, while digital innovation, including AI, offered new opportunities for economic development.

Putin also highlighted Moscow and Beijing’s efforts towards the establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, as well as the 30-day visa-free arrangement.

The President noted that the impactful initiative, extended from December 2026 until December 2027, had boosted tourist flows by 43% within the first six months.

“We stand ready to work together on transforming the visa-free framework into a permanent arrangement, should China deem this feasible,” he stated.

Putin, however, conveyed Russia’s condolences over last week’s tragedy near the Nepal-Tibet border, which claimed nearly 1,000 lives, with thousands still missing.

At a separate meeting, Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the expansion of bilateral ties, including cooperation in business, education, culture and tourism.

Modi said his country was preparing for the 18th BRICS summit in New Delhi on September 12–13, ahead of next year’s 80th anniversary of Russia-India diplomatic relations.