MINSK, 4 November (BelTA) – The Union State of Belarus and Russia is a top priority for Belarus. Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko made the statement at a session of the Supreme State Council of the Union State of Belarus and Russia on 4 November, BelTA has learned.
Aleksandr Lukashenko and President of Russia Vladimir Putin had talked over the phone just before the session began. This is why the beginning of the meeting was slightly delayed. First of all, the Belarusian head of state congratulated the Russian side and all Russians on National Unity Day, which is celebrated on 4 November.
By the way, Vladimir Putin flew to Sevastopol to mark National Unity Day. This is why Aleksandr Lukashenko asked his Russian counterpart to convey the warmest congratulations from Belarusians and wishes of strong health and courage in these complicated times to Crimea residents. “They have to understand that they are not alone. All of us are nearby and we will hold on to each other and help in these difficult times,” the president said.
Opening the session, Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that various challenges and threats to Belarus and Russia aggravated by the ongoing pandemic had disrupted the schedule of regular meetings of the leadership of the two countries.
Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed that the Union State is a top priority for Belarus. “Together we have created a unique integration model, thanks to which equal rights of Belarusians and Russians are secured and economic interaction advances. We actively cooperate in various areas and are intent on further expanding Union State integration. We protect the historical and moral values that our brotherly nations share,” the head of state said.
