MINSK, 20 July (BelTA) – The West is becoming irresponsible and unpredictable, in particular with regard to Belarus and stability in the region, and this is becoming a new normal today, Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs Vladimir Makei told the media, BelTA has learned.
"Irresponsibility and complete unpredictability on the part of the West is a new normal today. What is happening in relation to Belarus is beyond comprehension. A game without rules. Trying to play by some rules seems like a real challenge for us. Therefore, we will be forced to respond adequately depending on the development of the situation," the minister said.
Using diplomatic peaceful means to settle any disputes has always been a fundamental principle for Belarus, Vladimir Makei noted. "Not sanctions, or especially military means. We've always preached this. Even today, in the conditions of a trade, economic, political war and even terrorist threats against Belarus, we believe that there is an opportunity for dialogue. We are not going to burn any bridges. We always tell our partners that we need to pause and think about what this or that action could lead to, and work out steps that would calm the situation and not disrupt the fragile stability in the region,” the minister said.
“They want to make a second Ukraine of us. It would be an even hotter spot on the map. We, of course, are determined to prevent it,” stressed Vladimir Makei.
He said that Belarus told its partners about the need to think jointly about global challenges and threats. These include the fight against the pandemic, climate change, hunger, regional security, fight against terrorism and international organized crime. “These channels for dialogue should be preserved and serve as a starting point for making at least the first steps to return to the mutual understanding we had before. We see absolute irresponsibility in the West and an unwillingness to hear any sound voices,” the minister said. “No matter how hard it is, we will adhere to the principles of foreign policy we have always followed before,” he added.
Vladimir Makei also spoke about issues with staff of the Belarusian diplomatic service. The majority of employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are completely loyal to the state and are ready to work in the current difficult situation, he said. “It is clear that the West has practically declared a war against Belarus. Their aim is also clear. There are those who are hesitating. Perhaps, they do not understand what is happening. The president addressed these people today when he called to make up their mind and decide on their stance. If people devote themselves to the state, they should put work for the sake of this state above everything else. If they have doubts, then they should leave the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and not hinder the work of the ministry and embassies,” Vladimir Makei stressed.`
