MINSK, 21 December (BelTA) - Lithuania's initiative to limit the transit of goods from Belarus raises concerns, since Kaliningrad consumes Belarusian products, Governor of Russia's Kaliningrad Oblast Anton Alikhanov told RIA Novosti.
The Ministry of Transport of Lithuania had previously proposed to impose sanctions on products imported, purchased or transported directly or indirectly from Belarus. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the decision could affect the provision of Kaliningrad Oblast, and Russia would not ignore it.
“I am very concerned about the initiatives to limit the transit of Belarusian goods through Lithuania. I ask for everyone's help. There is Kaliningrad after all. Apart from the fact that something may go in transit through us, we consume Belarusian goods, including food, building materials, and so on,” said Anton Alikhanov.
He added that he sees Lithuania's possible decision as a threat to both food and economic security of the region.
“I believe that such restrictions should never be introduced or even considered, because this is not a relationship between Lithuania and Belarus or anyone else, it is a relationship with Russia. Appropriate exceptions must be considered in case they decide to introduce any restrictions,” the governor said.
In his words, the Kaliningrad Oblast authorities have been watching the situation very carefully. “We believe that we need to remind our neighbors of our agreements to ensure freedom of transit,” Anton Alikhanov concluded.
