Representation Made to British Ambassador in Moscow Anthony Brenton

PRESS RELEASE

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on July 19 called in Britain's ambassador in Moscow, Anthony Brenton, to make a representation to him over the unfriendly actions taken by the British government towards the Russian Federation.

The ambassador was informed of the measures taken by the Russian side in response, including a decision to expel four British embassy staff members in Moscow from Russia within ten days.

The ambassador was told that in regard to the restrictions imposed by London on the issuance of visas to diplomats heading for work at Russia's embassy in London the Russian side will act in mirror-like fashion.

Explanations were demanded from the ambassador over British officials' statements about a toughening up of the visa issuance procedure for members of Russian government entities. Until receipt of explanations of the new practice, Russian officials will not apply for British visas and analogous visa applications from British officials will not be considered.

It was also stated that the measures announced on July 16 by the British side make continued Russian-British cooperation impossible in the fight against terrorism at this stage.

July 19, 2007