Opinions & Interviews

Belarus, Austria want bridges, not dividing lines in Europe

MINSK, 15 January (BelTA) – Belarus and Austria believe that Europe should build bridges, not new dividing lines, Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs Vladimir Makei told reporters on 15 January following his talks with Austrian Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs Karin Kneissl, BelTA has learned.

“Our countries deem it necessary to ease tensions and strengthen stability in our regions and the world in general. We believe in the philosophy of building bridges, not new dividing lines in Europe,” Vladimir Makei said.

In his words, Belarus views the visit of Karin Kneissl and the opening of Austria’s new embassy building in Minsk as part of efforts to maintain a positive dialogue and promote bilateral relations.

The minister noted that Austria is one of Belarus’ major investment partners. It helps upgrade a number of Belarus’ economic sectors. The two countries maintain close contacts in culture, science, education and sport.

The ministers discussed the prospects of the bilateral relations in various fields, the interaction of the two countries in international organizations and cooperation between Belarus and the European Union.

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