DUSHANBE, March 14, 2013, Asia-Plus -- The Russian Foreign Ministry''s special envoy, Anvar Azimov, says Russia plans to introduce a visa regime for citizens of Central Asian republics, Radio Liberty reports.

Azimov reportedly told the independent “Dozhd” television channel late on March 13 that Russia''s current visa-free regime with Central Asia will likely end around 2015.

He said President Vladimir Putin supports the change.

A number of State Duma lawmakers have been lobbying for the introduction of visas for Central Asians, saying this will help curb drug trafficking.

Azimov, one of Moscow''s top negotiators on visa facilitation with the European Union, said EU officials have also expressed concerns that lifting visa requirements for travelers from Russia would cause an influx of Central Asian migrants to Europe.