ODESA, APRIL 19th, 2011, CONTEXT-PRICHERNOMORIE — Consul General of Turkey to Odesa Mr Murat Tamer thinks there shouldn’t be any visas between two friendly countries on the Black Sea coast, Context-Prichernomorie correspondent reports.

Mr Tamer stated it yesterday, 18 April, at a news conference, discussing the visa regime between Ukraine and Turkey.

“The visas were cancelled between Russia and Turkey starting yesterday. When the Turkish party was visiting Ukraine at the highest level last time, they were told that the matter was being considered. These talks will have a positive result. I believe there shouldn’t be any visas between two friendly countries on the Black Sea coast. People, commodities and services should be able to freely move in the Black Sea Region”, the envoy pointed out.

“Annulation of visas allows to increase the tourist flow. This year we are expecting more Ukrainian tourists in Turkey. Before the crisis the amount of Ukrainian tourists used to grow by 20-30 per cent a year. In 2009 the number was 650 — 700 thousand, in 2010 this index fell to 500 — 550 thousand people. This year we are expecting this amount to at least reach the former level”, the envoy added.

“At the same time the amount of Turkish people coming to Ukraine only reaches 50 — 60 thousand due to the visa. As soon as this issue has been resolved the amount of Turkish citizens visiting Ukraine will increase immediately”, he stressed.