Russia to tighten security measures at intl sports events - Sports Minister Mutko
SOCHI. April 16 (Interfax) - Russia will attach particular significance to security in organizing and holding international competitions, Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko told journalists in Sochi on Tuesday in commenting on the Monday bombings in Boston.
"This is a serious signal for Russia, which is to hold a lot of major events in the near future. Surely, we are tightening security measures," Mutko said.
"Russia's security concept is very substantial. Everything has been planned beforehand regarding the Olympic Games, the Universiade, and the World Championships in Athletics," he said.
"However, while a lot of attention is being paid to this, we will discuss these issues with our colleagues again and again, so as to avoid such situations," he said.
Participants in the AIPS (International Sports Press Association) congress in Sochi observed a moment of silence in memory of the casualties of the Monday bombings in Boston.
Speaking at the congress, AIPS President Gianni Merlo described the attacks in Boston as a reminder of other "despicable acts against the world of sports."
"We are a family, and today our AIPS family from all over the world mourns a tragedy that affects us all and fills our hearts with grief," Merlo said.
The forum participants issued an official statement on the Boston bombings.