Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova said on Friday that China will be put on the list of countries whose citizens can enter Russia, ending a 16-month travel ban over COVID-19 concerns.

Golikova told a briefing that the country's COVID-19 response center has made the decision, which awaits official approval from the prime minister.

As part of its anti-coronavirus measures, Russia imposed a temporary entry ban on Chinese nationals with visas for work, private visits, study and tourism since February 20, 2020.

Russia is expanding the list gradually as the country is cautiously opening borders to more countries.