This statement was made in an interview with RIA Novosti by the new permanent representative of Russia to the WTO, Nikolai Platonov.

According to him, the disadvantages of this step would be much greater than the advantages.

“By remaining in the WTO, Russia can convey its point of view to other participants and contribute to the adoption of decisions that meet our interests,” Platonov said.

Earlier, Russian leader Vladimir Putin replaced Russia's permanent representative to the World Trade Organization, appointing Nikolai Platonov to this position.