Russia and Lithuania Conclude Talks on Kaliningrad Transit

The Russian and Lithuanian consular services have concluded consultations on a draft agreement establishing rules for the transit of Russian citizens through Lithuania to the Kaliningrad Region. According to the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry's press service, the draft also sets out conditions for reduced duties for goods transporters. Free visas will be available for participants in sporting and cultural events, certain categories of disabled people, pensioners, and those visiting the graves of relatives.

Residents of the Kaliningrad Region will receive free multiple-entry Lithuanian visas. Free multiple-entry visas will also be available to Lithuanian citizens traveling to the Kaliningrad Region. The new agreement between Lithuania and Russia is expected to be signed in December and will come into force on January 1, 2003.