TORONTO — G Adventures founder Bruce Poon Tip has been sanctioned by Moscow against entering Russia.

Russia has banned 200 prominent Canadians in a counter move response to sanctions imposed by Ottawa.

Poon Tip says he welcomes the sanction, in the name of human rights, adding that it signifies his, and Canada’s, stance on what is right when it comes to human rights, as the invasion of Ukraine continues.

He issued a statement in the wake of the sanction.

“What Russia is doing is horrifying. I welcome this sanction as it gives us an opportunity to speak out again about the atrocity of the war against Ukraine. I will continue to support the further sanctioning of Russia until they leave the sovereign nation of Ukraine, and stop destroying a beautiful proud country and killing innocent people,” said Poon Tip.

“As a company, G Adventures spoke out early. We cancelled all tours in Russia, and refused to accept Russian nationals residing inside Russia on our trips, or to take bookings from Russian agencies.

“The fact I am now being personally sanctioned in return underpins my commitment to fighting the good fight, though it continues to devastate me that the Russian tourism industry and local communities are the ones impacted by these reciprocal bans when it comes to accessing the benefits of tourism.

“I have always said travel can be the fastest path to peace. It’s only by connecting with other cultures that we can foster connection and understanding between different countries and communities. If I have to be sanctioned to get this message across I’ll wear it as a badge of honour.

“Travel is the most powerful way we can open our hearts, minds, and eyes to the beauty of the world, especially in the darkest of times.  This cultural exchange is the backbone of what I built this company on 32 years ago and it must continue, but not at the expense of innocent people.”