BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In the wake of Air Algérie’s first-ever direct flight to Saint-Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport from Houari-Boumediène International Airport, Algerian Ambassador to Russia, Smail Benamara, revealed that Russia is set to ease visa issuance for certain categories of Algerian citizens.
“Both countries will explore ways to streamline the visa application process for specific categories,” stated the Algerian diplomat. The new measures will particularly benefit “businesspersons, athletes, and artists, in order to facilitate their travels.”
In light of this development, Smail Benamara emphasized that this air link would “facilitate business travel” and “welcome Russian tourists to explore the diverse regions of Algeria while also serving as a gateway to other destinations in Africa, Europe, the Americas, and beyond.”
Furthermore, the ambassador underscored that this direct route would “bolster bilateral cooperation in various fields, notably in tourism and investment.”
Echoing the sentiment, the Commercial Director of Pulkovo Airport lauded the significance of this direct connection, asserting that it holds great importance for Russia, enabling its citizens to visit Algeria for tourism or investment purposes. The new route also opens opportunities for Russians traveling to other countries to transit through Algeria.
Air Algérie will operate three weekly round-trip flights between Alger and Saint-Petersburg on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, marking a promising new chapter in Algeria-Russia relations. This step is seen as a testament to the mutual desire of both nations to foster increased economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties.
The decision to ease visa issuance for businesspersons, athletes, and artists reflects the commitment of both countries to foster stronger connections in these specific domains. This move is expected to boost trade relations and create new investment opportunities for entrepreneurs from both nations. Additionally, it will pave the way for enhanced cultural exchanges and artistic collaborations, further enriching the ties between Algeria and Russia.
