BRIGHTON, UNITED KINGDOM – Joining the growing number of organizations around the world condemning and taking action against Russia’s continued military aggression, IMEX Group suspends Russian state-owned companies from participating in IMEX Frankfurt.
IMEX Group CEO Carina Bauer and Chairman Ray Bloom issued the following statement:
“Regrettably, we have today taken the decision to suspend the participation of Russian state-owned companies in IMEX Frankfurt 2022 as a direct result of the current political situation. We do so with a heavy heart, knowing that the world finds itself in an unprecedented situation. Our thoughts are with all those affected and in particular with the Ukrainian people. We all wish for a swift and peaceful resolution of this conflict.”
The leaders then explained their decision to Trade Fair Manager.
“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has taken the world and our industry by surprise,” Bloom said. “We feel that given our role at IMEX, which is to provide a platform for destinations and cities to promote themselves and generate business within the global community, allowing Russian state-owned enterprises to benefit at this time would be inappropriate and insensitive. Many of us have colleagues and friends in Russia and we want to see them prosper in the long term. We understand that this action does not reflect their beliefs or desires. However, it is clear that the Russian state is acting against the wishes of many citizens at this point. For this reason, we wanted to delineate our actions around state-owned enterprises and ensure that we do not discriminate in any way against Russian citizens who live and work around the world in various organizations.”
Bauer stressed the power of unity and a unified response.
“It is clear that this situation is completely unprecedented and, therefore, our priority must be the Ukrainian people and the defense of freedom, democracy and stability of the Western world,” she said. “We wanted to take decisive action and bring clarity to our industry. It is clear that if every company and industry plays its part, it will increase the pressure of the already significant sanctions imposed by the Western world. We do not know to what extent these actions will impact decision-making in Russia, but it is right to support the efforts of governments. Ultimately, actions like this unite us with all the great industries that we serve on a daily basis.”
“As a global industry, it is important that we support, as best we can, the efforts of our friends and colleagues based in Ukraine. As a truly global industry, we are in a unique position to offer them real and moral support.”
Related. Trade show industry reacts to Russia-Ukraine war
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Contact Carina Bauer at carina.bauer@imexexhibitions.com