The statement

OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) Chairman-in-Office, Foreign Minister of Norway, Knut Vollebaek intends to come to Russia. Russia will decide when to receive him. This statement was made by Foreign Minister of Russia Igor Ivanov on Thursday, according to RIA "Novosti". Ivanov emphasized that Russian side does not understand the reasons of the "agitation" surrounding Vollebaek_s visit to the Northern Caucasus.He said once again that in Istanbul it was the Russian delegation that suggested that OSCE Chairman-in-Office should visit the region. Russian Minister pointed out that Russia receives representatives of different international organization and has no reason to reject OSCE. Ivanov confirmed that Vollebaek sent a letter with a request to be allowed to visit the Northern Caucasus on December 13-14. The dates are being discussed and Ivanov assures that there is no one considering canceling the visit.