Belarus eager to normalize relations with West

Belarus will strive to normalize relations with the West. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko made the statement on 30 December as he introduced newly appointed Head of the Belarus President Administration Alexander Kosinets, BelTA has learned.

The head of state remarked that in addition to matters of domestic politics the Belarus President Administration should keep an eye on foreign politics. “The geopolitical situation in the world and around our country is getting more and more complicated,” stressed the President. In his words, it is necessary to work out and take actions in advance of external threats in association with the government and the Foreign Ministry.

The next year will be crucial for Belarus in many respects. In particular, the Eurasian Economic Union will become a reality. According to Alexander Lukashenko, Belarus cannot surrender its own interests as far as the union is concerned.

“Relations with the West are another matter,” noted Alexander Lukashenko. “Yes, there are positive moments both in politics and economy. Let’s continue working in this direction. Yet we must not allow any pressure on us. We will not tolerate any pressure from the West or the East, particularly in view of the forthcoming election”. The President stressed that Belarus pursues a multiple-vector foreign policy.

Speaking about relations with Russia, Alexander Lukashenko said: “Nobody can substitute this country for us today. Belarus will not act to the detriment of brotherly Russia”.

Speaking about cooperation with the West, the President remarked: “We border on the West and want no clashes — either political or diplomatic ones. Half of our trade is over there. If the West offers cooperation to us, we should grab the opportunity. We will strive to normalize relations with the West. If they are willing to cooperate with us on equal terms and let us know it, we will accept this signal. We have always said: let’s negotiate and come to terms”.