Traffic backlog at Kazakh-Russian border due to increased travel demand, not new rules – Russian embassyThe Russian Embassy in Kazakhstan stated Tuesday that congestion at border crossings, including the Zhaysan-Sagarchin checkpoint in Kazakhstan's Aktobe region, stems from increased travel demand rather than newly implemented entry procedures."Extended wait times at the Zhaysan crossing result from increased traffic flows into the Russian Federation," the embassy said, noting that Russian border guards are working to expedite processing during peak travel season.The embassy clarified that no additional documentation, including entry QR codes, is being required at the Sagarchin checkpoint, countering social media reports. It also denied claims that Russia's second-phase trial of new entry rules for foreign nationals, launched June 30, has caused border delays."The experimental procedures remain voluntary," the embassy emphasized. "Failure to complete the digital entry form does not affect Russian border clearance processes."The clarification follows reports from Kazakhstan's Interior Ministry of significant vehicle queues at three border crossings since June 30, with officials initially suggesting new Russian entry requirements contributed to delays.Russia's experimental system requires foreign visitors to submit digital entry applications at least 72 hours before crossing, though the embassy maintains this doesn't alter visa-free travel provisions for Kazakh and Russian citizens. (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: INTERFAX