MINSK, 4 October (BelTA) – Belarus and Germany have been steadily developing bilateral cooperation, Belarus' Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrei Dapkiunas said at a function held on 3 October to mark the Day of German Unity, BelTA has learned.
"Belarus views Germany as one of its principal foreign partners and attaches particular importance to the consistent strengthening and development of friendly relations based on the principles of mutual respect, responsibility and trust," the deputy minister said. "This year marks the 25th anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic relations between Belarus and Germany, which were originally established in 1923. We remember well that 25 years ago Germany became one of the first states to recognize the independence the Republic of Belarus," he added.
Andrei Dapkiunas noted that the two countries and nations are united by close political, economic and cultural ties. "We have always belonged to the common European space," he said. The deputy minister also said that there were tragic events in the common history, especially during the Second World War. "But through an open dialogue and work for the sake of reconciliation between the peoples, we have managed to overcome the difficult legacy of the past and establish constructive cooperation," he said.
Today, Belarus and Germany develop fruitful contacts in various fields: economy, science, culture, education, environmental protection, sports, youth exchanges, twinning relations. Humanitarian cooperation is of particular importance. Belarus is grateful to the government and people of Germany for solidarity and long-term assistance in mitigating the consequences of the Chernobyl disaster.
"The Belarusian-German cooperation is on the rise. The two countries have activated the political dialogue, renewed inter-parliamentary relations, expanded trade, economic and investment cooperation. The two states are working on the legal framework of bilateral relations, coordinate efforts in international organizations and formats. The main thing, however, is Belarus and Germany continue to strengthen mutual trust on different levels, mutual understanding and desire to overcome the existing problems," the deputy minister said.
