Iran has announced a visa-waiver program for Indian tourists entering the country by air for a maximum stay of 15 days, subject to four conditions. The visa-free entry, effective from February 4, applies to individuals holding ordinary passports and is solely for tourism purposes. However, the 15-day period cannot be extended, and those seeking longer stays or multiple entries within six months must obtain necessary visas from Iranian missions in India. This move follows a recent approval of visa-free programs for India and 32 other countries, reflecting efforts to strengthen bilateral relations.
Chinese tourists arriving in Bangkok were given a VIP welcome as Thailand waived visas for Chinese nationals in an effort to boost its tourism industry. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin personally greeted the first batch of visitors, who were treated to traditional performances and photo opportunities. Tourism is a crucial driver of Thailand's economy, and the visa waiver aims to revive the industry that was severely impacted by the pandemic. The government expects 2.88 million Chinese visitors during the five-month visa waiver period, hoping to offset the decline in Chinese tourists due to their own economic challenges.
Thailand has rolled out the red carpet for Chinese tourists as it implemented a visa-waiver scheme to boost its tourism industry. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin personally greeted the first batch of visitors from China, who arrived in Bangkok. The visa waiver aims to revive the tourism sector, which was severely impacted by the pandemic. Thailand expects to welcome 2.88 million Chinese tourists during the five-month period of the scheme. China was previously Thailand's largest source of tourists, and the visa waiver is expected to make it simpler for Chinese visitors to enter the country.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has waived visas for Georgian nationals and lifted a 2019 ban on direct flights to Georgia, a move that has been denounced by Georgia's president as a "provocation" aimed at undermining the country's aim to join the EU. The two countries have had complicated relations since the Soviet Union's collapse in the early 1990s, and fought a short war in 2008. The issue of the status of two Russia-friendly separatist regions remains a key irritant.
