Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 27 March (BelTA) - Belarus considers Greece as a promising partner in the Balkan region and Europe, Belarus’ Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Valentin Rybakov said at the ceremony on the occasion of the Greek Independence Day on 27 March, BelTA has learned.

According to him, the Belarusian and Greek peoples are historically close to each other, share common religious and civilizational values. Greece is one of the first countries that recognized Belarus as a sovereign state. This happened on 2 January 1992. On 5 March the two countries celebrated the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. “During this period much has been achieved. The two countries maintain a foreign-policy dialogue, cooperation in international organizations, economic ties, and also contacts in culture and tourism,” Valentin Rybakov said.

However, much still remains to be done. “We see a considerable potential for enhancing economic cooperation. This year will see the first meeting of the intergovernmental economic commission and the business forum, which will contribute to this. There is a room for the development of bilateral contacts between the parliaments, regions, and also cultural and humanitarian ties,” Valentin Rybakov noted.

He thanked Honorary Consul of Greece in Belarus Pavel Topuzidis for the personal contribution to the development of Belarusian-Greek relations. The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed the hope for the further strengthening of the dialogue between the two countries, wished peace and prosperity to the friendly people of Greece.

For his, Pavel Topuzidis noted the importance of developing comprehensive cooperation between Greece and Russia.

The event was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, honorary consuls, representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the general public.

Greece celebrated the Independence Day on 25 March. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko sent greetings on this occasion to the Greek people and the President. The Belarusian head of state expressed the hope that friendly relations between Belarus and Greece will continue contributing to the advancement of Belarusian-Greek mutually beneficial cooperation in the interests of the two nations and for the sake of stronger peace and security in Europe.