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Alexander Lukashenko pointed out that Belarus has an open economy, the country cannot be isolated from the outside world and is interested in working on foreign markets. “It is very important for us to be part of the world economic organism called WTO,” he said. Meanwhile, the Belarusian leader noted that every WTO member pursues and defends its own interests. “We are ready to work in this area while protecting our own interests just like everyone else does,” stressed Alexander Lukashenko.

According to the President, the negotiation process assumes that partnering countries can reach a compromise, first and foremost. “If we see that we don’t lose out in the course of the negotiation process, we will accept the terms. If we do, then we are out of it,” believes Alexander Lukashenko.

At present nothing prevents Belarus from joining the World Trade Organization, with the USA and the European Union pledging their support and assistance with the matter. “We are thankful to them for it but we are going to negotiate to secure interests in all areas, including the industry and the agriculture. All economy branches are important for us and need protection,” noted Alexander Lukashenko.

Alexander Lukashenko said it is also important to analyze the experience of Belarus’ partners in the Eurasian Economic Union that have already become full-value members of the World Trade Organization.