Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev on Wednesday signed a decree establishing a three-day visa-free regime for international tourists visiting Sevastopol by ferry.
The move is meant to "create favorable conditions for visits to the Crimean Federal District by citizens of countries that make up the main stream of tourists to Russia," a statement on the government's website said.
"The decree will allow for an increase in the region's tourism appeal and will enable the development of tourism as a whole," the statement said.
The decree was submitted by the Foreign Ministry on Sept. 15.
The Black Sea port city of Sevastopol was added to Russia's Crimean Federal District in March after it was annexed from Ukraine along with Crimea.
Sevastopol is not the only port city to offer more lenient visa rules for foreigners. Currently, Russian law allows all tourists visiting port cities by cruise ship or ferry to stay for up to 72 hours visa-free.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
