Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 24 August (BelTA) – Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Russia to Belarus Alexander Surikov wishes disputes between the two countries resolved without serious damage to the reputations. The ambassador made the relevant statement during the reception held on 24 August on the occasion of the end of his diplomatic mission in Belarus, BelTA has learned.

“I cannot say that my years here have not been darkened a little. Such things always happen. Such disputes happened in the past and will continue happening. I wish them resolved without any serious damage to the reputations of the sides,” said Alexander Surikov. “It is the most important thing. One should always be objective in one’s evaluations and, despite anything, love the country one has come to stay in, respect its leadership and the nation.”

The diplomat remarked he had worked as the ambassador to Belarus for over 12 years. Belarusian-Russian friendship has only grown stronger in this period.

“Certainly, it has been accomplished thanks to trade figures, new jobs, expansion of cooperation in cultural affairs, work with the population. It is complicated and difficult work, which we’ve done together with our friends in Belarus, primarily with the country’s leadership. I would like this work to continue,” he added.