Posted:
03.10.2023 12:25:00
Belarus has many friendly partners around the world
The President of Belarus, Aleksandr Lukashenko, has received credentials from ambassadors of 11 foreign countries: Kazakhstan, Hungary, Egypt, Zimbabwe, Equatorial Guinea, Angola, Uganda, Cambodia, the Philippines, Jordan and Colombia
Aleksandr Lukashenko with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Hungary to Belarus Zita Ilona Bencsik The Head of State welcomed the diplomats on the beautiful, friendly and hospitable Belarusian soil, “I hope that your diplomatic work will bring our nations closer and help build truly friendly interstate relations.”
The President emphasised that the ambassadors are embarking on their mission in a very difficult period,
“Today a new structure of international relations is emerging and it is steadily moving towards multipolarity. This process is irreversible, no matter how much someone would like it otherwise. We are witnessing the rise of what I see as a more fair and reasonable model of interaction between all nations, and not only privileged states, on the principles of respect and partnership.”Following the established tradition, the President briefly commented on the state of Belarus’ interaction with the countries represented by the diplomats.
Communicating with diplomats, the President emphasised that Belarus, which has experienced many upheavals, has well learned the lessons of history.
“Our main task is to prevent a new world war. Minsk consistently pursues a very responsible foreign policy. Never in history have we extended ourAddressing diplomats, the President emphasised that the countries they represent have repeatedly experienced the effects of illegal restrictive measures from the West. The same as Belarus.
jurisdiction beyond national borders. We are committed to an open and peaceful policy. Yet, not all Western democracies like this. Having realised their impotence, they resort to sanctions,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.
“Therefore, we have consistently and persistently opposed any illegal restrictive measures that harm not so much us as the whole world,” Aleksandr Lukashenko explained.
According to him, sanctions against Belarusian potash fertilisers, agricultural products and equipment have seriously undermined the global food security, affected yields and food prices, while millions of people in the world are starving.
“I am sure that it is in our common interest to speak even louder about this problem and jointly seek the abolition of restrictions on trade, especially on vital commodities. Moreover, the answers to these challenges have already been found,” the Belarusian leader said. “Now new settlement systems in national currencies are being actively formed, logistics is being rebuilt. These things are discussed in the SCO and BRICS. Everyone is tired of constantly waiting for mercy from overseas.”The President emphasised that Belarusians, despite all the difficulties and barriers created by the West, have not turned away from their path of development. The Belarusian economy is confidently back on the growth track.
Belarus is open to all people of good will. The country has waived visas for citizens of many countries, Aleksandr Lukashenko continued. In the current situation, the development of trusting and stable relations with friendly partners abroad is of particular importance for Belarus.
“There are a lot of such partners around the world. You are evidence of this,” the Belarusian leader said addressing the ambassadors.
Aleksandr Lukashenko called Kazakhstan a fraternal state, a strategic partner and ally, “We have common history, robust trade and humanitarian ties. No topic is off limits for discussion due to friendly relations between the two Heads of State. We will be happy to see President Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev in Belarus this year to discuss a wide range of topics on the bilateral and international agendas.”
“Hungary is a long-standing and reliable friend of Belarus. Our relations have passed the test of time and are based on pragmatism and mutual respect,” Aleksandr Lukashenko noted.
The President highlighted Budapest’s proposals and initiatives on security and confidence-building measures in Europe, “We are ready to continue the dialogue with Hungary in order to de-escalate tensions in the region by resolving controversial issues through peace talks.”
On African countries
The President noted that a rather big group of ambassadors from African countries was present at the ceremony. He said, “We view this as an eloquent demonstration of the mutual interest in each other.”
Aleksandr Lukashenko assured that diplomats from these countries can always count on equal and mutually beneficial co-operation for all parties here in Belarus, “You are always welcome here. We believe in your continent and have high hopes for it.”
Addressing the ambassador of Egypt, Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that he was sincerely glad to see in Minsk the ambassador of the country that is one of Belarus’ key partners in North Africa, “We maintain good personal contacts with President el-Sisi, we run joint economic projects. We look forward to continuing our common developments in the markets of other African countries, as well as to more active work in the space of the Eurasian Economic Union.”
Welcoming Zimbabwe’s first ambassador to Belarus, Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that co-operation with Harare is a poster child for Minsk’s interaction with African countries, “Together with President Mnangagwa, we have set very ambitious goals for the coming years. I am sure that the ambassador will make every effort to fully implement the agreements we have reached.”
Speaking about co-operation with Equatorial Guinea, the Belarusian Head of State recalled the recent visit of the President of this country to Minsk, “Our candid conversation confirmed that African states intend to stop being used solely as sources of raw materials, and to industrialise their economies. We will lend a helping hand to you in your efforts.”
Belarus and Angola have a long history of relations, the President noted. He also outlined significant potential for growing bilateral trade and confirmed Belarus’ interest in intensifying a political dialogue, co-operation in economy and other areas.
Aleksandr Lukashenko named Uganda one of Belarus’ promising partners in Africa. “We could significantly increase trade, interact more actively in agriculture, healthcare, education, and personnel training. We are ready to supply our equipment and quality products. I am confident that the new ambassador will get actively involved in promoting co-operation in these and many other areas."
“While strengthening multifaceted co-operation with all countries of the world, Belarus continues to explore co-operation opportunities with countries of the East,” the President noted.
According to him, one of Belarus’ priority partners in Southeast Asia is the Kingdom of Cambodia: “We believe that everything is in place to step up co-operation in manufacturing, agriculture, and infrastructure upgrade.”
“Despite the distance, we view the Republic of the Philippines as an important partner for our country,” said Aleksandr Lukashenko. He noted Belarus’ readiness to co-operate with Manila in food security and is willing to share its expertise and knowledge in creating agro-industrial holding companies that can both grow and process agricultural products.
The President emphasised Belarus’ interest in establishing more partnerships in the Middle East. In this regard, he highlighted Jordan’s well-deserved international authority and an important peacekeeping role in the region.
“Belarus shares your approaches. I strongly believe that our countries are able to step up their interaction in politics, economy, education, science, culture, tourism and other fields. This will benefit both states,” the Head of State said.
Aleksandr Lukashenko called Colombia an important partner of Belarus in Latin America. Colombia is currently pursuing a more balanced and independent policy in international affairs.
“Minsk and Bogotá are on the same page regarding illegitimate restrictions and the assessment of global developments. This opens up new opportunities to intensify dialogue at all levels, grow trade and expand interaction in other areas,” the Head of State is convinced.
Based on materials of sb.by and belta.by
