New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) Highlighting the importance of cultural links between India and Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Friday that the connections among the people have always been a vital aspect of bilateral relations. New Delhi is set to introduce a complimentary 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian nationals.

During a joint press conference with Russian President Vladimir Putin after their discussions at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi, PM Modi remarked that for many years, the citizens of both nations have shared profound affection, respect, and warmth for each other, and various new initiatives have been introduced to strengthen these ties.

“Recently, two new Indian consulates have been established in Russia, which will ease interaction between the citizens of both nations and foster closer relations. Earlier this October, a significant number of devotees in ‘Kalmykia’ were blessed with the sacred relics of Lord Buddha during the International Buddhist Forum,” PM Modi mentioned.

He also expressed joy in declaring that India will soon provide a free 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian citizens.

“The mobility of our workforce will not only connect our peoples but also generate new strength and opportunities for both nations. I am pleased that we have signed two agreements today to advance this. We will collaborate on vocational education, skills training, and promote exchanges among students, scholars, and athletes from both countries,” the Prime Minister added.

In a remarkable exhibition of spiritual devotion and shared cultural heritage earlier in October, the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha from India garnered an overwhelming response in Russia’s Kalmykia. Thousands of devotees paid their respects to the relics, which are housed at the renowned Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery, famously known as the 'Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha.'

Last month, at the inauguration of the Indian Consulates General in Yekaterinburg and Kazan in Russia, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar highlighted that the establishment of these two new missions would enhance bilateral engagement and signify a new phase in the relationship between the two nations.

“I am confident that the opening of these consulates will not only strengthen our diplomatic presence in Russia but also serve as a catalyst to further enhance trade, tourism, economic, scientific, technological, and even academic and cultural connections between our two nations,” EAM stated.