White House urging US execs to avoid Russian forum

Image
AP Washington
Last Updated : May 07 2014 | 12:01 AM IST
Top executives at major US companies are reconsidering or withdrawing their participation in a Russian international economic forum. They have been pressed by the Obama administration to drop out amid the growing crisis in Ukraine.
Among the administration officials calling executives are Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew and Valerie Jarrett, a senior adviser to President Barack Obama.
The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, held from May 22 to May 24 this year, is an annual event prized by Russian President Vladimir Putin as validation of his country's economic influence.
White House spokeswoman Laura Lucas Magnuson said that while companies can make their own decisions, high-profile appearances with Russian government officials would, quote, "send an inappropriate message."
She said US government officials will not attend the forum this year.
*Subscribe to Business Standard digital and get complimentary access to The New York Times

Smart Quarterly

₹900

3 Months

₹300/Month

SAVE 25%

Smart Essential

₹2,700

1 Year

₹225/Month

SAVE 46%
*Complimentary New York Times access for the 2nd year will be given after 12 months

Super Saver

₹3,900

2 Years

₹162/Month

Subscribe

Renews automatically, cancel anytime

Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans

Exclusive premium stories online

  • Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors

Complimentary Access to The New York Times

  • News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic

Business Standard Epaper

  • Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share

Curated Newsletters

  • Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox

Market Analysis & Investment Insights

  • In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor

Archives

  • Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997

Ad-free Reading

  • Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements

Seamless Access Across All Devices

  • Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app

More From This Section

First Published: May 07 2014 | 12:01 AM IST

Next Story