In news from Albania, the government there has temporarily lifted all visa requirements for travelers from Azerbaijan. For visits of up to 90 days, citizens there can travel to Albania at their leisure. This follows news that Albania allowed similar privileges to other countries.
Back in May Albania begain allowing travlers from Ukraine, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Taiwan, Russia, and China to travel there freely. According to the news these exemptions are scheduled to stay in force through the end of October.
Apollonia in Illyria - Albania's fabulous history unearthed - courtesy Erik Stewart
The exemption remains in place until 31 October. Azerbaijan tourists and business people will have to register with regional immigration officials within 30 days of arriving however. Albanian ambassador to Moscow Sokol Gjoka made a statement earlier when Albania lifted visa restrictions for Russia:
“We remove the visa regime for the summer to enable Russian nationals to freely travel in Albania. Not only tourists, but also all other categories of citizens, including businessmen and participants in international and cultural events, can take advantage of the visa-free regime.”
Some thoughtful Albanians - Courtesy Nikos Koutoulas
In the larger scope, EU officials have met almost continually to try and iron out measures for more innovative and constructive visa regulations overall. Hopefully Albania’s outreach and initiatives will lead others to insist on freer regulations for travel on the continent and elsewhere.
