Russian authorities have announced plans to expand visa-free travel arrangements by concluding new agreements with Indonesia, Malaysia and Kuwait, as Moscow seeks to strengthen tourism and economic ties with key international partners.

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko said the initiative follows the introduction of visa-free travel regimes with several countries last year and forms part of broader efforts to facilitate international travel to and from Russia.

Speaking at a meeting of the State Council Commission on Tourism, Chernyshenko highlighted the role of Russia's electronic visa system in boosting visitor numbers and simplifying entry procedures for foreign travelers.

"The launch of the e-visa system was an important step that has been positively received by many countries," he said. "The visa-free regime continues to expand with important partners. Last year, these included China, Oman and Saudi Arabia. Indonesia, Malaysia and Kuwait are next."

Russian officials say the expansion of visa facilitation measures is intended to support tourism growth and strengthen bilateral relations with countries across Asia and the Middle East.

Earlier, Chernyshenko reported that 1.6 million foreign tourists visited Russia during the January-April 2026 period, marking a 30 percent increase compared with the same period a year earlier.

The proposed agreements are expected to further encourage tourism, business travel and people-to-people exchanges between Russia and the three countries if finalized. (ILKHA)