Russia withdraws from Barents Euro-Arctic Council
Europe
By
Xinhua
| Sep 19, 2023
Russia has made the decision to withdraw from the Barents Euro-Arctic Council (BEAC), the Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Monday.
The BEAC "has been a useful and effective format for cross-border interaction" throughout 30 years, and has contributed to the maintenance of peace and stability in the North, the statement said.
Activities of the council have been paralyzed since March 2022, due to the council's Western members, and Finland has not confirmed its readiness to transfer the chairmanship of the BEAC on to Russia in October 2023, the statement said.
"Under the current conditions, we are forced to announce the withdrawal of Russia from the BEAC," the Foreign Ministry said.
"Russia will continue to implement its national goals in the North. We remain open for interaction with everyone, who is committed to a constructive approach, and is ready for equal dialogue and mutually beneficial teamwork," it said.
READ MORE
Full-in tray for reappointed nuclear agency chair
End of an era as Kirubi family exits Sidian Bank in multi-billion deal
Naivasha businesses light up as firms rush to showcase Safari Rally-style services
Kenya's tea sector in crisis talks over shipping route closure
Kenya braced for economic shockwaves from Iran war
New digital tax risks pushing traders off e-commerce platforms, report warns
Ruto strips agriculture body of coffee role in sector shake-up
Kenya's meat exports disrupted by Middle East war
State now banks on special economic zones, EAC to boost trade
The BEAC was established in 1993, and its objective is to promote stability and sustainable development in the Barents region.