World · Singapore Bureau
Nordic delegates walk out as Russian official addresses IMF committee
Representatives from Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Norway were among those who left an International Monetary Fund steering committee meeting in Bangkok when a Russian official took the floor, according to sources familiar with the matter.
LSN Singapore ·
The walkout occurred during a session of the IMF's policy-setting committee, underscoring ongoing geopolitical tensions within multilateral institutions since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Delegations from Nordic nations departed as the Russian representative began to address the gathering, the sources said.
The incident reflects broader divisions within the international financial architecture, with Western nations maintaining a firm stance against Russian participation in key policy discussions. The Nordic countries have been among the most vocal critics of Moscow's actions in Ukraine and have consistently supported measures to isolate Russia diplomatically.
The IMF steering committee, formally known as the International Monetary and Financial Committee, typically convenes to discuss global economic issues and guide the fund's operations. The Bangkok meeting brought together finance ministers and central bank governors from IMF member states.
A Russian delegation has continued to participate in IMF forums despite international sanctions and criticism. The walkout signals the deep fissures that persist within multilateral organisations over Russia's continued membership and representation in international bodies.