Travel flow between Russia, ASEAN countries reached 1 mln trips in 2024 - Russian Economic Development Ministry

MOSCOW. Jan 20 (Interfax) - More diverse direct flight services and better entry regulations have facilitated an increase in the mutual travel flow between Russia and the countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to 1 million in 2024, the Russian Economic Development Ministry said on Monday.

"Southeast Asian countries are among the most preferable destinations for Russian tourists. The mutual travel flow reached 1 million trips in 2024, with Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia accounting for the highest figures," Russian Deputy Economic Development Minister Vladimir Ilyichyov said at the fourth meeting of tourism ministers from Russia and ASEAN countries in Malaysia.

A broader range of direct flights, better entry and stay terms, and the promotion of Russia as a new tourist brand abroad have proven the most productive measures to encourage foreign tourists to visit Russia, the ministry said.

The participants also discussed progress in the development of tourism ties between Russia and ASEAN countries, which has been accomplished through implementing an industry-wise working plan.