Lukashenko: Belarusian-Russian integration is response to global situation
The meeting of the presidents of Belarus and Russia is taking place in the Palace of Independence. Warmly welcoming Vladimir Putin and the members of the Russian delegation, Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that even though there were no such top-level meetings in Minsk for a long time due to circumstances, the interaction did not stop.
“You are always welcome guests for us. The break in visits to Minsk did not prevent us from being in constant contact. Even our so-called Western partners were very worried that we sometimes meet too often. We met regularly both in the Russian Federation and at international venues. Our governments are also working intensively, with many meetings being held at the level of regions and enterprises. This is confirmed by the steady growth of trade and the settlement of many issues that previously hindered co-operation,” the Belarusian leader noted.
The Head of State underlined, “The strengthening of Belarusian-Russian ties has become a natural response to the changing situation in the world, in which we were constantly tested and are being tested for strength. I believe that, despite some rough edges, we still find effective responses to various challenges and threats. The fateful decisions on closer integration of our states once again demonstrate to the whole world that only together can any pandemic, crisis or sanctions be overcome.”
At the same time, the President paid special attention to the fact that Russia and Belarus, as the heads of state often say, are open for dialogue with other states, including European countries, “I hope that soon they will listen to the voice of reason, and we will move on to a constructive discussion of both issues of general security and the future world order. Protecting democracy and progress with restrictions and military force against our states no longer impresses even local voters who have experienced the shortcomings of such a policy.”
