Russia is advancing plans to cancel visas for several African countries, with Moscow preparing agreements for a visa-free regime with nine nations across Africa and the Middle East, according to Alexei Klimov, head of the Consular Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
While a clear timeline has yet to be established, Klimov noted that the negotiations are at various stages depending on the country. He reassured that updates would be shared once the bilateral agreements are formalised. This initiative is part of Russia’s broader strategy to strengthen ties with African countries, following its previous efforts to ease visa regulations with Zimbabwe and other nations.
According to Africa News, Russia already has established visa-free regimes with several African nations, including Angola, Mozambique, Malawi, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tunisia, and Morocco. These agreements are a cornerstone of Moscow’s push to expand its influence in Africa, where it seeks to deepen diplomatic, economic, and military ties.
The visa-free agreements are expected to enhance trade, tourism, and political relations, providing easier access for Africans to Russia and vice versa. This comes at a time when Russia is also making strategic moves in the Sahel region, which has seen several recent coups. Moscow’s engagement in these politically unstable areas is part of a larger geopolitical effort to replace waning Western influence with stronger Russian partnerships.
As Russia continues to engage with African nations, particularly in regions experiencing instability, visa-free regimes are likely to be a key component of its broader diplomatic and economic objectives, enhancing mobility and fostering closer relations across the continent.