Russia announced its intention to withdraw from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) on its own, without waiting for a meeting on suspension of membership. The corresponding statement was published by the organization itself on its Twitter (banned in the Russian Federation).
“Russia has announced its intention to withdraw from the UNWTO. An appropriate process must be followed and this will take a year to complete. But the suspension takes effect immediately,” the organization said in a statement.
Recall that it was previously announced that the executive board of the World Tourism Organization would hold the first ever meeting to discuss a proposal to suspend Russia's membership in the organization. It should be noted that the initiators of this statement were such “key” countries for international tourism as Guatemala, Lithuania, Poland, Slovenia and Ukraine.
However, we recall that the outcome of the vote was predictable: UNWTO Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili announced ”, after reading the anti-Russian speech. He stated that he “hopes that the member states will vote for the suspension of Russia's membership.” “Any abstinence is motivated by fear,” he stated. He also called on all member states to “show solidarity”. However, he acknowledged that for Russia the exception would have “symbolic consequences.” Read the details here.
For those who care about a healthy lifestyle, we recommend reading: “Scientists have named 4 vitamins that can lead to cancer.”