Lukashenko: CSTO must be cautious, diplomatic with Armenia

MINSK, 6 April (BelTA) - The Collective Security Treaty Organization needs to be very cautious and diplomatic in its work with Armenia, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said during a meeting with CSTO Secretary General Taalatbek Masadykov on 6 April, BelTA has learned.

The head of state noted that alongside certain achievements within the CSTO, there are also problematic issues, something Aleksandr Lukashenko has openly spoken about many times, including at international meetings and events. One such issue requiring special attention, the president said, is relations with Armenia.

“We need to be more cautious and diplomatic in our work with Armenia. You know that Armenia seems not to support the work of the CSTO, but at the same time remains in the organization,” the head of state said. “We must be very diplomatic. The situation in Armenia is complicated in this regard, especially during the electoral period. A very complicated situation. Therefore, we need to be very diplomatic and cautious in our relations with Armenia.”

In this regard, Aleksandr Lukashenko believes it is important to arrange meetings at the level of the CSTO secretary general and the leadership of Armenia. “Especially now, during this tense electoral period, when the leadership of Armenia will speak honestly and openly about the situation, including on the CSTO track,” the Belarusian leader noted.

“It would be good if you went there and spoke with the prime minister, the president, and the secretary of the Security Council of Armenia, and learned their position for the future,” the head of state added, addressing Taalatbek Masadykov.