Georgia expects up to $400 million in tourism profits after resumption of air links with Russia

Georgian Economy and Sustainable Development Minister Levan Davitashvili has said his country expects $300 to $400 million a year in tourism profits after the restoration of air links with Russia.

He made the statement at a briefing after the government meeting on May 15, TASS reports.

"In the tourism sector, we expect an effect of about $300 to $400 million within one year after flights are restored," Davitashvili said.

The minister also said that three Russian airlines have already requested flights to Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi airports.

From May 15, Georgian citizens may enter Russia without visas for up to 90 days. The visa regime was abolished by a decree of Russian President Vladimir Putin.