The Russian Foreign Ministry opposed the liberalization of entry to Russia and the introduction of a visa-free regime unilaterally for friendly countries, said the director of the consular department of the agency, Alexei Klimov.
He noted that this contradicts the principle of reciprocity, which is fundamental in the sphere of international relations and must be observed, RIA Novosti reported.
These initiatives would put foreigners in a privileged position compared to Russians, which would be a cause for censure. It would also deprive foreign countries of motivation to conclude a mutual agreement on visa-free travel, Klimov added.
According to him, decisions to abolish visas are usually taken by "beach tourism" countries, as well as states that do not play a significant role in the world. Unilateral abolition of visa regime will damage the image of Russia.
Recall that Putin allowed arms supplies to North Korea. Moscow does not consider Switzerland as a neutral party.