Google is not turning up any new peering on IXs?

[Will OBrien via NANOG <nanog () lists nanog org>]

We recently turned up a new IXP and I’m going through the motions of arranging the usual peers, etc.
I’m extremely surprised by this one:

Public Peering

Google no longer accepts new peering requests at internet exchanges (IXPs). However, Google maintains dedicated 
connectivity to the internet exchanges (IXPs) listed in our PeeringDB entry<https://www.peeringdb.com/asn/15169>. We 
also maintain existing BGP sessions across internet exchanges where we are connected. For networks who do not meet our 
PNI requirements Google will serve those networks via indirect paths.

I can only presume that someone who doesn’t pay for cross connect fees came up with this plan. This feels short sighted 
at the least. Considering the benefits of peering, I have to express some dismay at this disservice to the internet in 
general.

Anyone from Google care to explain what appears to be a willful withdrawal of support for the IXP community?
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