Aleinik: Minsk retains interest in launching Helsinki-2 project

Minsk remains interested in a comprehensive dialogue on security issues, strengthening confidence-building measures and co-operation in Europe – as stated by Belarus’ Foreign Minister Sergei Aleinik following today’s joint meeting of the boards of the Belarusian and Russian foreign ministries

Mr. Aleinik stated that the OSCE is in a systemic crisis today. According to him, earlier the organisation was associated with the pan-European house, which now needs major repairs.

“In order to carry out this repair, a really serious constructive dialogue is needed. We proposed this dialogue more than five years ago in Minsk, during the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly. The President put forward an initiative in the presence of all European participants to launch the Helsinki-2 project – the beginning of a serious, comprehensive dialogue on security issues, strengthening confidence-building measures and co-operation in Europe. Sadly, that initiative was not heard then, but we are still interested in such work. Sooner or later it will start, and Minsk is ready to act as a platform for this. However, we are also ready to work at any other venue.”