German cellist Matthias Moosdorff, a member of the Bundestag for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, lost his position as head of the foreign relations working group due to his close ties to Russia. This was reported by the t-online portal.
According to the publication, the working group made the corresponding decision at a meeting on November 12, but for it to come into effect it must be approved by the entire faction of the party. According to the group’s foreign relations representative, Markus Schmidt, the faction’s vote on this issue will probably take place next week and the decision will be approved, as the faction leadership also insists on removing Moosdorf from office.
“The decisive reason for Moosdorff’s dismissal is his honorary professorship at the Gnessin Russian Academy of Music, which he received in September this year.” – says the publication.
It should also be noted that the parliamentary group had previously criticized Moosdorff for his trips to Russia, contrary to the wishes of the AfD leadership.
After receiving the honorary degree, Moosdorf said he wanted to send a “signal of understanding” with this move.
“Music knows no ideological boundaries” – he also stated, adding that he does not see any “political orientation” in the Academy.
At the same time he confirmed that this position at a Russian cultural university is paid.
“The structure of the additional contract is still open, but is based on generally accepted fees internationally,” – he added.
The cellist planned to teach in a chamber ensemble “once a quarter for several days.”
Before being elected MP in 2021, Moosdorff was a professional musician. However, he joined the party in 2016. He was one of the first signatories of the 2018 declaration against “illegal mass immigration.”
As reported EADailyLast November, Moosdorf participated in one of the Tchaikovsky festival concerts. Restart”. The chamber music concert took place in the Lutheran church of St. John Jaani Kirik in St. Petersburg.
