News & Events in Belarus

MINSK, 22 May (BelTA) – Belarus is always open both to the East and the West. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko made the statement in his speech at the 7^th congress of the Federation of Trade Unions of Belarus (FTUB) on 22 May, BelTA has learned.

According to the head of state, the fact determines Belarus’ principled stance on international affairs, which is manifested as readiness to promote relations across the entire range of promising avenues. “But only on the basis of mutual respect, mutual benefits and equality,” stressed Alexander Lukashenko.

The President pointed out that Belarus had made an absolutely conscientious choice in favor of stepping up the union with Russia and creating the Eurasian Economic Union. Today the country is expanding the geography of cooperation and has secured a new level in comprehensive strategic partnership with the People’s Republic of China and other major world players.

“As part of the dialogue with the West we sometimes face biased attitudes and warped judgment. This is why the Federation of Trade Unions should work to bolster Belarus’ positive image abroad. It is necessary to defend our positions and deliver reliable information to the International Labor Organization,” said the Belarusian leader.

“Any attempts to disrupt unity and sow seeds of discord between nations must be opposed right away. You cannot stand aside as observers in this situation,” stressed the Belarusian head of state. “Wars and revolutions destroy everything — economy, security, well-being, and hope for the future, which is the most important thing. We have seen it happen many times in the last few years in close and faraway countries.”

“The fact that in these troubled times we have preserved peace and order in our land, have not allowed anyone to provoke a conflict and explode the country from within is the most important accomplishment,” said the President.

“Active members of trade unions are part of the labor collectives. You work with people every day. And you should tell people the truth: explain real reasons behind hardships, don’t let false information misguide them, carry out a direct and sincere dialogue with the workers,” stressed the head of state.