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Lukashenko: Foreign agents, extremists will have no place in Belarus’ political arena

MINSK, 18 December (BelTA) - There will be no place for foreign agents or extremists in Belarus’ political arena, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said in his Address to the Belarusian people and Parliament on 18 December, BelTA has learned.

The head of state spoke about the necessity of protecting his country. “All public organizations and parties should set similar goals for themselves. The times demand it. Protecting Belarus’ interests is the top priority. Foreign agents and extremists will no longer operate in our political field. This is also a matter of justice,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.

In this regard, the president addressed the pardon of a number of convicts, including within the framework of agreements with the USA. He did not rule out that the decision to release certain individuals involved in the events of 2020 in Belarus might cause misunderstanding among some within the country. For instance, among law enforcement officers. “When I released someone to Lithuania, Poland, or further south, don’t you worry. Those are my functions and powers. You elected me. Allow me to exercise my authority. And you, in every workplace, fulfill yours. Quietly and calmly, we will resolve all issues - with the Americans, the Chinese, the Russians, the Africans,” the head of state said.

Responding to criticism from abroad by self-exiled opposition that the convicts in Belarus were pardoned for some ulterior motive, Aleksandr Lukashenko urged people not to blame him in this connection: “I did what you asked me to do, within my powers.” Some of the convicts were pardoned for humanitarian purposes, for family reunification.

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