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Belarus FM hopes for further normalization of relations with USA

Michael Pompeo and Vladimir Makei

MINSK, 3 February (BelTA) - Belarus has high hopes on the further gradual normalization of relations with the United States, Belarus Minister of Foreign Affairs Vladimir Makei said at the joint briefing with U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo following the meeting with Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko on 1 February, BelTA has learned.

“We attach absolute importance to this visit. The last visit of the U.S. Secretary of State to Belarus was 26 years ago. The current visit is a clear evidence of the intensifying interaction between Belarus and the United States. We believe that the visit will give a significant impetus to the progressive normalization of bilateral relations,” said Vladimir Makei.

He stressed that the meeting with Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko was held in an atmosphere of absolute trust and mutual understanding. The parties discussed a wide range of issues of the bilateral relations. “They came to the conclusion that approaches and interests coincide in a number of areas. The political will to further develop the bilateral relations was emphasized. The return of ambassadors to the capitals of the two countries after a 12-year break will contribute to this,” the minister said.

Belarus welcomed the support of the country's sovereignty and independence stated by the United States. The parties stressed that the potential of bilateral economic and investment cooperation is still hugely untapped and discussed promising areas of cooperation.

Emphasis was also made on cooperation between the law enforcement agencies of the two countries. The parties reaffirmed their intention to continue dialogue on regional and international security issues. “The parties exchanged views on the situation in the region and prospects for Belarus' interaction with the Nato bloc. Belarus' intention to make efforts to preserve peace and security on the continent was also noted,” Vladimir Makei said.

He expressed gratitude to American partners for openness and constructive dialogue.

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