Riga [Latvia], August 17: The Latvian government on Tuesday decided to terminate an agreement with Russia on facilitating mutual visits by residents of the two countries.
Latvia's foreign ministry said the agreement will remain in force for another three months after Latvia sends Russia a written announcement about its termination.
According to the ministry, Latvia and Russia signed the agreement in December 1994 to facilitate travel by residents and promote cultural and economic ties. On Feb. 24 this year, Latvia suspended the issuance of visas to Russian citizens at all diplomatic and consular missions in foreign countries. Latvia has also advised its residents against traveling to Russia.
The ministry noted that, given the above conditions, the simplified visa procedure provided by the bilateral agreement was no longer possible.
Source: Xinhua
