Armenians in Russia Ask to Eliminate Visa Regime with Georgia

An association in Russia of Armenian expats from the Georgian region of Javakheti has called on the Russian authorities to eliminate visa requirements for citizens of Georgia, following a decision by Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili to unilaterally abolish the visa regime for Russian citizens entering Georgia.

“Up until 2000, there was a visa-free regime between Georgia and Russia. Then, due to certain prevailing objective reasons, visa requirements were introduced for citizens of the two neighboring countries. A few days ago, Georgian authorities unilaterally eliminated visa requirements for Russian citizens. This news delighted and gave hope to many ordinary and peaceful residents. Our non-governmental organization also joins and welcomes this decision,” reads the statement of Javakheti Armenians in Russia.

In their opinion, a similar move by Russian authorities “would reduce the Georgian authorities’ level of aggressive rhetoric and actions toward Russia, stimulating a mutual, humanitarian direction and healthy economic prospects. Most importantly, it would be a good step toward restoring confidence and warm fraternal relations between the Russian and Georgian peoples.”