Just in: Statement from the Gergiev Foundation

Further to the reports of embezzlement that have appeared in the last two days, the Foundation has issued the following clarification:

The Valery Gergiev Foundation 

December 23, 2011 

Moscow, Russia 

The Gergiev Foundation, which funds numerous projects throughout Russia including events and performances at the Moscow Easter Festival and the White Nights Festival in St. Petersburg, has issued the following statement to clarify erroneous media reports concerning the dismissal and investigation of Igor Zotov, former executive director of the Moscow-based Foundation: 

Igor Zotov was employed by the Foundation as the executive responsible for administrative and financial operations. He was not an employee of the Mariinsky Theatre and his responsibilities were not associated with either the Mariinsky Theatre or the construction of the new Mariinsky opera house in St. Petersburg. 

In the summer of 2011 the Foundation became concerned about Mr. Zotov’s actions, especially handling of investments, and contacted the proper law enforcement authorities who opened an investigation and are now questioning Mr. Zotov. The Legal proceedings are conducted under Part 4 of Article 159 of the Criminal Code. The next meeting of the legal authorities regarding this matter is scheduled for January 16, 2012. 

The Foundation is confident that the matter will be resolved expeditiously.