By Larisa Rakovskaya
The meeting was hosted by the Reception House of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, in Spiridonovka, not only continuing the recent presidential conversations but translating these into joint answers to questions set by the leaders. “We have much to discuss,” said Mr. Lavrov, explaining that, in Sochi, the presidents of Belarus and Russia agreed key areas of partnership for our two countries.
Experienced diplomat and negotiator Mr. Makei was appointed to the position of Foreign Affairs Minister not long ago. The fact that one of his first visits in his new position has been to Moscow shows the importance of Russia for Minsk; the relationship continues to be strategic and is developing dynamically. He notes, “Belarus enjoys constructive and confidential relations with Russia. Its traditional for ministers to meet and we intend to extend this tradition.”
Recent talks in Spiridonovka were a political debut for the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus to the Russian Federation, H.E. Mr. Igor Petrishenko. He has many years of experience of Belarusian-Russian relations, so is no stranger to this work, but his new status brings with it major tasks in extending bilateral relations between Moscow and Minsk. Additionally, he’ll be promoting the State Union processes, Eurasian security and economic integration. The Belarusian Embassy to Moscow is ‘a small ministry’, with new powers discussed by Mr. Makei and Mr. Petrishenko in Maroseika.
Judging by recent negotiations, the new political season, which traditionally begins in autumn, will be filled with important work.
