Russian Foreign Ministry: Italy cancels Russian artistic activities, discrimination

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The Russian Foreign Ministry summoned Italy's ambassador to Moscow, Giorgio Staras, today, in protest of his country's restrictions on Russian cultural activities.

The ministry said in a statement reported by Novosti Agency: Italy's decisions to cancel performances of Russian artists scheduled on its territory contradict the statements of representatives of the Italian leadership about the importance of preserving a single space for European and global culture, and indicate a tendency to discriminate against Russian artists and narrow cultural and human exchanges.

The ministry added: Russia remains open to dialogue in the field of culture, and does not intend to impose restrictions on cultural figures from Italy if the Italian side adheres to the terms of equality and reciprocity.

The ministry pointed out that it briefed the Italian ambassador on the Russian position towards the supply of weapons and military equipment to the Ukrainian regime, including offensive weapons and the training of Ukrainian military personnel, which escalate the conflict in Ukraine.

Italy had canceled the performances of the Russian People's Artist and famous pianist Denis Matsuev, scheduled for next May, in the cities of Bergamo and Breshi.

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