MOSCOW: Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has signed an order authorising the country's exit from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

According to a published order issued on Friday, the suggestion was made by the Russian Foreign Ministry, which had reached an agreement with relevant government organisations.

On April 27, when the Russian delegation announced its resignation, UNWTO members agreed to suspend Russia from the organisation, as per media reports.

Later that day, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) was monopolised by European Union countries, who "exploit it in their own interests."

The "politicisation" of UNWTO activities, and "discrimination" against Russia, were challenged by Moscow.

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