PM Modi Unveils Free 30-Day E-Visa For Russian Visitors in Joint Presser With Putin

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Friday that India will introduce a free E-visa facility for Russian tourists, with applications to be processed within 30 days. Speaking at a joint press briefing with Russian President Vladimir Putin following their bilateral talks, PM Modi said that both E-tourist visa and group tourist visa services for Russian citizens will be launched soon at no cost.

"I am happy that we will soon launch E-tourist visa and group tourist visa services for Russian citizens. This will be processed within 30 days and will be free of cost," PM Modi stated during the press conference.

India, Russia sign Vision 2030 document

PM Modi also confirmed that India and Russia have signed a Vision 2030 document, aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two nations. He said the agreement is expected to create new business opportunities and enhance bilateral cooperation.

"To further economic cooperation, we have signed a Vision 2030 document. Today, both of us will take part in the India-Russia Business Forum. I am confident this platform will strengthen our business relations and open new avenues for co-production and co-innovation. Both countries are also taking new steps to realise an FTA with the Eurasian Economic Union," he said.

Call for global unity against terrorism

During the address, PM Modi urged the international community to stand united against terrorism, noting that India and Russia have long worked together on this front. He referred to recent attacks, including the one in Pahalgam and the assault on Crocus City Hall, stressing that such incidents share the same origins.

"India and Russia have long cooperated shoulder-to-shoulder in the fight against terrorism. Whether it is the terror attack in Pahalgam or the cowardly attack on Crocus City Hall, all such acts have the same roots. India believes that terrorism is a direct assault on the values of humanity, and global unity against it is our greatest strength," he said.

Putin expresses gratitude to India

President Vladimir Putin thanked President Droupadi Murmu, PM Modi, and the people of India for the warm reception extended to the Russian delegation. He highlighted the strong working relationship he shares with PM Modi and their continued efforts to advance the India-Russia partnership.

"I thank President Droupadi Murmu, my dear friend PM Modi, and the people of India for the warm and hospitable welcome to the Russian delegation. My talks with PM Modi over dinner were very helpful for our Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. PM Modi and I have established a close working dialogue. We met during the SCO Summit, and we are personally overseeing the Russia-India dialogue," Putin said.