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21st November 2009
Edition: 1037


‘Pirate’ freighter carrying only timber, says Russian ambassador
29/8/2009

The Arctic Sea freighter, seized by suspected pirates in Europe earlier this month and eventually intercepted by the Russian Navy off Cape Verde last week, was only carrying timber, Moscow’s ambassador to the islands has said.

Ambassador Alexander Karpushin said this week in Praia that media reports the Arctic Sea was transporting arms or nuclear material were “speculation” and, in fact, pure “fantasy.” If the vessel had been carrying arms to Iran, as reported by some media this week, it would have been easier to use the Caspian Sea, noted Karpushin, adding Russia complies with all international laws on arms sales.

“The ship belongs to a Finnish firm, has a Maltese flag and only a Russian crew,” noted the Russian diplomat, who met earlier with Cape Verde Prime Minister Jose Maria Neves to offer Moscow’s thanks for Praia’s assistance in finding the missing freighter.

TPN/Lusa

Edition: 1025

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