MOSCOW, September 27 (RIA Novosti) - Although the sanctions imposed against Russia by several countries have not yet affected work with its nationals, Rossotrudnichestvo activities have become complicated in some countries holding an "anti-Russian position," head of the organization, Konstantin Kosachev, said during the 12th Annual Session of the Rhodes Forum, "Dialogue of Civilizations," held September 25 to September 29.
"So far sanction related decisions have not affected Rossotrudnichestvo activities. We work in all the countries as previously. But non-sanctioned Rossotrudnichestvo activities have been hampered by those traditionally adhering to anti-Russian positions," Kosachev said.
According to Kosachev, the organization was "systemically denied the signing of an agreement on the exchange of cultural centers in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania."
"I cannot describe these politics in any other way, but a politicized anti-Russian position aimed at limiting rights of our nationals living in these countries," Kosachev added.
He noted that the cultural centers, similar to those which have not been opened in the Baltic States, safely operate in all European Union (EU) capitals.
Relations between Russia and the West have deteriorated as countries continue to accuse Russia for its alleged involved in the situation in Ukraine, a claim Russia has repeatedly denied. In late July, the EU and the United States have increased sanctions which previously targeted certain individuals and companies to measures against entire sectors of the Russian economy.
The World Public Forum "Dialogue of Civilizations" was opened in Melina Mercouri Theatre in Rhodes, Greece. The 12th Session of the Rhodes Forum's official motto is "Preventing World War Through Global Solidarity: 100 Years on." The situation in Ukraine and anti-Russian sanctions have become one of the main topics of discussion during this year's Rhodes Forum. Some 450 people from over 60 countries are involved in the talks.
