MOSCOW, December 21 (RAPSI) – The State Duma has passed in the third and final reading a bill on procedure of export and import of valuable objects of culture from and to the countries that are not members of the Eurasian Economic Union.

The bill reads that export of such items may be conducted only in accordance with a permit provided by a state body. At the same time, especially valuable objects can’t leave Russia without guarantee of their return. This rule applies to ones permanently stored in state museums or registered in the Russian Archive Foundation and similar entities, including privately owned items. Objects that were imported to Russia may leave the country without additional paperwork.

Temporary export of cultural items from Russia may only be conducted for organization of exhibitions and presentations, restoration work and scientific research, performance of concert tours, organization and conduct of religious rites and ceremonies as well as personal use.

Illegal export and import of these objects would result in their seizure and transfer to a state body for their further examination. Perpetrators are to be held liable in accordance with Russian law, including experts responsible for fraudulent opinions.

The bill also establishes the Council for preservation of cultural heritage and development of international exchange of cultural property, consisting of state officials, representative of museums, scientific and cultural communities.