MINSK, 11 April (BelTA) - Information Minister Dmitry Zhuk explained under what circumstances Belarus might decide to block YouTube as he gave an interview with the First News TV Channel, BelTA has learned.
The minister noted that after YouTube removed the channels of three state-owned media outlets, arguments have repeatedly been made along the lines of: “Why do we need a platform where we are not present? Why do we have YouTube if there is no Belarusian content there?”
Dmitry Zhuk also noted that this platform has become a familiar tool for Belarusians. “It’s a question of expediency and effectiveness. If it starts to threaten state security and interests, then there will be no debate. But we need to work with this platform,” he emphasized.
The minister also drew attention to the need to move away from the “us versus them” mindset. “We understand perfectly well what is good and what is bad. We must defend our interests very clearly. Defend them by all available measures and means. Above all, we must think about our own security and the preservation of sovereignty. And that is the criterion that will underpin any decision we take,” the minister assured.
The minister noted that after YouTube removed the channels of three state-owned media outlets, arguments have repeatedly been made along the lines of: “Why do we need a platform where we are not present? Why do we have YouTube if there is no Belarusian content there?”
Dmitry Zhuk also noted that this platform has become a familiar tool for Belarusians. “It’s a question of expediency and effectiveness. If it starts to threaten state security and interests, then there will be no debate. But we need to work with this platform,” he emphasized.
The minister also drew attention to the need to move away from the “us versus them” mindset. “We understand perfectly well what is good and what is bad. We must defend our interests very clearly. Defend them by all available measures and means. Above all, we must think about our own security and the preservation of sovereignty. And that is the criterion that will underpin any decision we take,” the minister assured.
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