Peoples Gazette
Under the rules, foreigners must be tested for tuberculosis, syphilis and HIV.
Russia is introducing compulsory medical examinations and fingerprinting for foreigners from Wednesday in rules that have already provoked strong opposition.
Under the law, elaborate medical checks will be required every three months starting early next year, including blood tests and X-rays or CT scans for some.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry in Moscow said it would seek “favourable conditions” for foreign members of the media and their families.
The German-Russian Chamber of Commerce (AHK) has already warned that there could be consequences for the Russian economy if the new rules are implemented consistently.
If business representatives are affected, there is a risk that “foreign managers important to Russia could turn away from Russia on a large scale,’’ the AHK said.
The chamber urged the Russian government to weaken the rules in a letter sent in December.
Under the rules, foreigners must be tested for tuberculosis, syphilis and HIV.
The AHK says the results must be sent to Russian immigration authorities and that fingerprints are also mandatory.
Anyone who refuses to comply risks having their work permits revoked.
The rules apply to all foreigners and their family members, including six-year-old children and above.
Russian authorities argue the new procedure is a health measure that will benefit the country.
But Russian newspaper…
