India and Russia on Friday signed agreements to enhance skilled worker mobility and ease travel between the two countries, according to a joint statement issued after talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin. The agreements are part of the broader efforts to strengthen cultural, educational, and people-to-people ties under the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.
The labour mobility agreement facilitates temporary employment for citizens of one country in the territory of the other, aiming to promote professional exchanges and strengthen economic collaboration. In addition, both countries agreed to grant a 30-day e-tourist visa on a gratis basis to each other’s nationals, further simplifying travel and promoting tourism.
The two sides emphasized the importance of cultural interaction and people-to-people exchanges as a key pillar of the strategic partnership. They highlighted participation in international cultural forums, book fairs, festivals, and art competitions in both nations and welcomed the holding of Cultural Exchange Festivals on a parity basis to showcase Indian and Russian heritage.
Cooperation in the film industry is also set to expand, including joint film productions and mutual participation in international film festivals held in India and Russia. Both countries acknowledged the steady increase in tourist exchanges and pledged to continue simplifying visa procedures.
The statement also noted enhanced collaboration between experts, think-tanks, and institutes, which has fostered greater mutual understanding among policymakers, strategic circles, and businesses. Recognizing the traditionally strong cooperation in education, India and Russia reaffirmed their commitment to student welfare and to promoting academic and institutional linkages between universities and educational organizations in both countries.
