Dutch prime minister to talk gay rights in Sochi

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte will talk about gay rights in Russia during his visit to the forthcoming Winter Olympics in Sochi, he said on Tuesday during a debate in the Dutch parliament. "When the opportunity arises I will talk with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but it takes two to tango," Rutte said. "Otherwise I will at least speak with local Russian organizations." Rutte said he will investigate whether the Dutch delegation can be extended with representatives of Dutch gay organizations. In addition, the prime minister promised to talk about minority rights in Russia. Last week the Dutch government announced to send the heaviest possible delegation to Sochi, with Dutch King Willem-Alexander, Queen Maxima, PM Rutte and Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport Edith Schippers. With the decision, the Netherlands did not join the growing amount of Western countries who do not send their top deputies to Russia. Political leaders of some western countries have recently declined Russia's invitation to come for the Winter Olympics in Sochi in February. Following the government's decision, there was much criticism on the composition of the Dutch delegation. Opponents argued for a less heavy delegation without the PM.