Opinions & Interviews

CEI seeks closer cooperation with Belarus

Roberto Antonione. Photo courtesy of Belarus 1 TV channel

MINSK, 8 April (BelTA) – The Central European Initiative (CEI) wants to expand comprehensive cooperation with Belarus, Secretary General of the Central European Initiative Roberto Antonione said in an interview with the Belarus 1 TV channel on 7 April, BelTA has learned.

The secretary general praised Belarus’ efforts during its CEI presidency. He noted that it was efficient, visible and important. “Belarus has done a great job. We are glad that things have gone so well. I am convinced that we will keep cooperating with Belarus in various areas,” he said.

Speaking about Belarus as part of the Central European Initiative, Roberto Antonione pointed to its active role in various areas of expertise: “Belarus is making a substantial contribution to areas like science, in particular innovations, as well as culture and other areas. Belarus’ contribution manifested itself in projects, exchange of best practices and other useful things. In other words, your country is doing very well in the organization.”

The Central European Initiative is one of the region’s oldest organizations. CEI managed to bring together different countries; most of them are members of the European Union. Some of the CEI participating states are not part of the EU, but strive to join it. Another group is represented by countries that do not seek to become part of the European Union, but are interested in close cooperation with it. “Here we mean the Eastern Partnership project where Belarus is a member,” Roberto Antonione said. Speaking about Eastern Partnership members in CEI, he noted that Belarus is a key player here.

Established in 1989, CEI is a regional intergovernmental forum that currently includes 18 states. Belarus joined the initiative in 1996. Belarus views the organization as an effective tool for expanding and strengthening regional cooperation through the implementation of joint projects in topical areas of activity, including energy efficiency, sustainable development, environment, science and technology.

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