Belarus’ FM: Lithuania responsible for border closure, Minsk ready for dialogue

Belarus’ Foreign Ministry made a statement on the issue of Lithuanian freight vehicles stuck in Belarus

"Lithuanian media are actively quoting the statement of Lithuania’s Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene on negotiations with Belarus on the return of Lithuanian cargo vehicles currently stuck on our territory. Indeed, the relevant appeal, if it can be called an official appeal to Minsk, has been sent to the leadership of the Lida border guard," the Belarusian Foreign Ministry said in its statement.

In this regard, the Foreign Ministry recalled that the decision to close the border had been taken exclusively by the Lithuanian side unilaterally. Belarus is not responsible for its negative consequences, which have turned out to be multifaceted – involving problems with freight transport and a significant damage caused not only to Belarusian citizens and businesses and to Lithuania, but also to citizens of third countries, including the EU member states.

"Moreover, for our part, we urge the Lithuanian authorities to reverse their decision and resume the normal functioning of border crossings for citizens, vehicles and cargo," the statement reads. “Thousands of citizens of both countries and the EU as a whole are eagerly awaiting this simple and logical decision by Vilnius. They need a solution that is sustainable and predictable. Adopting any selective measures is out of the question."

As noted in the statement, in the interests of its citizens, Belarus is ready for a dialogue at any time to resolve the existing problems concerning the operation of border checkpoints.