Russia and Turkey may soon sign an agreement lifting bilateral visa requirements, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said on Wednesday.

"This agreement is indeed ready to be signed," Medvedev said.

The Russian leader stressed that this would be a "breakthrough agreement" designed to improve the lives of millions of people.

The agreement allows citizens of both Russia and Turkey to visit each other's country for up to 30 days.

"Firstly it concerns our tourists who go on holiday in Turkey," Medvedev said.

Turkey is a popular destination for Russian tourists. Last year the country attracted some 2.5 million Russians. Some 3 million Russian tourists visited Turkey before the economic crisis.

Russian citizens can currently purchase a visa at Turkish airports.

RIA Novosti

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