China-backed AIIB freezes lending to Russia and Belarus

Development bank vows to 'safeguard financial integrity' as sanctions mount

20220303N AIIB

China is the largest shareholder of the multilateral development lender. © Reuters

IORI KAWATE, Nikkei staff writer

BEIJING -- The China-based Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank said Thursday it has suspended activities relating to Russia and Belarus until further review, as Western sanctions against the two nations threaten to derail its operations there. 

"We the management will do our utmost to safeguard the financial integrity of AIIB, against the backdrop of the evolving economic and financial situation," the bank said. "Under these circumstances, and in the best interests of the bank, management has decided that all activities relating to Russia and Belarus are on hold and under review."

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