Republic

Belarus, EU have good foundation to build relations upon

MINSK, June 22 (BelTA) – President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko believes that Belarus and the European Union have a foundation to build relations upon. The President made the relevant statement as he met with Benita Ferrero-Waldner, EC Commissioner responsible for External Relations and the European Neighbourhood Policy, in Minsk on June 22. “We genuinely wish to build good relations with you albeit some may not like it,” said the Belarusian head of state. He underscored that he would like to have an absolutely open and honest dialogue and that he has ever adhered to a sincere policy approach. “In the European Union some politicians have emerged who believe that Lukashenko is playing with Europe and that he is not going to change anything in the country and in relations with Europe. During all the years of my presidency I have never been dishonest,” said Alexander Lukashenko. “I may not look like a diplomat in a white shirt but I believe that politics should be sincere”. “Even if telling the truth is disadvantageous for you today, it should be said. Later on lies would come out and it would be very difficult to get out of the situation,” added the Belarusian leader. Addressing Benita Ferrero-Waldner, Alexander Lukashenko remarked that he is ready to sincerely answer all questions “even very awkward ones”. He said he would try to argue her out of the points that he believes are incorrect. The President underscored that Belarus would like to build normal relations with the European Union because Europe is Belarus’ neighbour. The European Union accounts for half of the trade and the trade produces a surplus for Belarus. Alexander Lukashenko remarked that the European Union is very technologically advanced while Belarus has a hi-tech economy. The country cannot advance it further without cooperation with the European Union. “What do we want from Europe? We want Europeans to understand that Belarus is not only the geographical centre of Europe. It is home to very decent, honest and hardworking people. It is an independent sovereign state and we cannot allow anyone to trespass upon it,” said the head of state. In his words, financial resources, lending and financing are the most important factors for Belarus. Speaking about what Belarus can offer to Europe, Alexander Lukashenko mentioned the country’s location at the crossroads of transportation routes and security matters. “I would like you to understand that Europe cannot do without its centre. We are the link between such huge powers as the European Union and the Russian Federation,” said the President. Vital oil and gas pipelines cross Belarus as well as automobile and railway routes which are kept in a good state, “better than our neighbours’”. Besides, according to the head of state, Belarus has never been blamed by Europe for failing to ensure main elements of the European Union security. The country works hard to suppress illegal migration, drugs trafficking, transportation of radioactive materials. Besides, the situation is totally stable in the country. There are no conflicts between confessions or nationalities. According to the President, these factors make up the foundation that Belarus and the European Union can build upon. Alexander Lukashenko thanked Benita Ferrero-Waldner for coming to Belarus despite her busy schedule. He also underscored that a lot depends on this meeting.

БЕЛТА