Russia voiced on Wednesday support for Saudi Arabia in its diplomatic row with Canada, telling Ottawa it was unacceptable to lecture the Kingdom on human rights.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that human rights should be promoted with respect for specific national customs and traditions.
"We have always said that the politicization of human rights matters is unacceptable," Zakharova said.
"What one probably needs in this situation is constructive advice and assistance rather than criticism from a 'moral superior'," she said.
Saudi Arabia on Sunday froze new trade with Canada and expelled the Canadian ambassador in retaliation to Ottawa’s meddling in its internal affairs.
It also ended state-backed educational and medical programs in Canada, making plans to relocate tens of thousands of Saudi students and patients to other countries.
