MINSK, 1 July (BelTA) – The half-hearted policy of the West towards Belarus is counterproductive, head of state Alexander Lukashenko said when speaking at a solemn meeting on the occasion of the Independence Day of Belarus on 1 July, BelTA has learned.
According to the head of state, the European Union and the United States have started an active dialogue with Belarus. “Whether it is due to ignorance, or inertia (most likely inertia), but in negotiations with us the West is still using the old methods: sanctions (some of them are still in force), political pressure, interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state. The promises given to us and even reasonable mutually beneficial projects get delayed or loaded with conditions. With such actions, any subject of international law risks losing the confidence of his partner and ultimately risk losing in more important matters,” Alexander Lukashenko noted.
“Such half-hearted policy is especially anti-productive in the context of our peacemaking effort that has received high appraisal from the United Nations,” the Belarusian leader stressed.
Alexander Lukashenko noted that Belarus has become a full and respected member of the international community as evidenced by its extensive interstate ties, underpinned by trade and economic agreements. It is especially valuable that we have such powers as Russia, China, and India among our friends. The cooperation with them helped us survive the time of pressure from the West. Belarus' will to conduct an independent, balanced policy has made other world leaders change their attitude towards us,” the President said.
