Russia has announced its intention to abolish the visa regime with several Muslim countries, an initiative backed by Mikhail Bogdanovthe Russian president's special envoy for the Middle East and Africa and deputy foreign minister. The plan, which is said to be already underway, is aimed at facilitating travel for tourism and business purposes.
There is as yet no official list of countries concerned. nor a precise date for the introduction of this visa waiver. It is also impossible to know whether the intention is real or simply an exercise in communication in a tense diplomatic context.
A similar process is also underway with Asian countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia. Russia expects to strengthen its cooperation with these countries, as well as with the Gulf states. With its traditional partners, Syria, Iraq and Egypt, much progress has already been made. Coincidentally (or not), most of these countries are all members of OPEC+, an enlarged alliance that includes the 13 countries of theOrganization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and 10 other major oil producers, including Russia, who are working together to control oil production in order to balance the global oil market.
These announcements were made at the 14th Russia-Islamic World International Economic Forum in Kazan. This two-day forum aims to strengthen economic ties between Russia and Muslim countries, against a backdrop of rifts between Russia and the West. Holding the 2023 event in Kazan is symbolic, as the city is seen by the Russian state as a successful example of multiculturalism and peaceful religious coexistence.
Russia is home to around 15 million Muslim citizens, representing 10% of the country's population.
Strategic relations between Russia and Muslim countries
Although not a full member of the OIC, Russia was admitted as an observer state in 2005, marking a diplomatic victory for President Vladimir Putin. Russia's integration into the OIC has enabled the country to position itself as a key player in the Muslim world, acting as a mediator between the West and the East.
To maintain its influence in Muslim countries, Russia has created a "strategic vision group"in 2006. Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and subsequent Western sanctions have led to an increase in economic activity between Russia and the Middle East, a development welcomed by both sides. Russian leaders of Muslim origin are often used as diplomatic "messengers" to foster relations.
Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov has also played an active role in building relations with the Gulf States, where shared religious identity plays a key role. He performed the Hajj in Saudi Arabia in 2018 and 2022meeting the Saudi leadership during these two visits.
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