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12 April 2021, 12:32

Makei comments on ‘pause' in Belarusian-Ukrainian relations

MINSK, 12 April (BelTA) – Belarus' Minister of Foreign Affairs Vladimir Makei commented on the ‘amazing metamorphosis' in the rhetoric of the Ukrainian authorities regarding cooperation with Belarus as he gave an interview with the Belarus 1 TV channel on 10 April, BelTA has learned.

The interviewer noted that, for example, Ukraine told its mass media not to call Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko president. "Our southern neighbor has shown us some ‘amazing metamorphosis'. No one from outside should or can determine who the president in a country is. This is up to the Belarusian people,” the minister noted. “Please note that today no one is arguing that Aleksandr Lukashenko won the election. The argument is about the vote numbers. The simple truth is that Aleksandr Lukashenko won the presidential election and is elected president of Belarus,” he added.

"It is absolutely unacceptable when some countries revise relations with Belarus based on statements of political migrants. Ukraine has put relations with Belarus on hold. It was funny and sad to hear about it. You cannot forbid people to communicate and you cannot pause relations between nations. We will never allow such a thing and we will never stoop to this," Vladimir Makei said.

The minister said that the Ukrainian ambassador constantly sends him text messages complaining that this or that Belarusian TV channel was harsh about Ukraine. “The ambassador says it should not be like this, it is unacceptable in relations between the two countries and so on. But in fact, I understand you, journalists. When Ukrainian TV channels and mass media make absolutely unfounded and harsh statements about Belarus, sometimes bordering on insult, sooner or later they will have to face the music,” the minister said.

“In general, I do not approve this kind of attitude and presentation of information. I believe that everyone should act with respect. Well-mannered presentation of information breeds more trust and respect. But we have had to respond to the things voiced by our neighbor,” Vladimir Makei said.

He assured, though, that Belarus is interested in developing full-fledged relations with Ukraine, including in trade, economy, politics and culture. “We have a common border of 1,084 kilometers. We should also think of it as a border of peace, not a border of discord. In December 2021 we are celebrating 30 years of diplomatic relations. With what cooperation results will we approach the anniversary?” the minister said.

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