Opinions & Interviews

MOSCOW, 15 December (BelTA) – Belarus citizens will not have to sit a Russian language proficiency exam in order to get a residence permit in line with new Russian laws. President of Russia Vladimir Putin made the statement after negotiations with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko in Moscow on 15 December, BelTA has learned.

Vladimir Putin said that the sides had confirmed their intentions to expand the traditionally solid humanitarian ties between Belarus and Russia. “I would also like to draw attention to an important initiative concerning migration affairs. I’ve informed Alexander Grigoryevich [Lukashenko] about it,” said Vladimir Putin. “As you know, as of 1 January 2015 foreign citizens, who want to live and work in Russia, have to confirm their mastery of the Russian language, their knowledge of the Russian history and the basic laws. Yet taking into account the special nature of Belarusian-Russian relations we have decided not to apply these norms to Belarus citizens,” said the President of Russia.

Vladimir Putin went on saying that the effective legislation will be amended to accommodate for the decision. In his words, the relevant bill has already been prepared and is now being considered by the State Duma.

“In my opinion, the document would fully comply with principles of allied interaction between Russia and Belarus,” concluded Vladimir Putin.