Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 18 July (BelTA) – It is necessary to advance relations between Belarus and European institutions for the sake of a constructive dialogue. The statement was made by Bogdan Zdrojewski, chair of the European Parliament’s delegation for relations with Belarus, member of the European Parliament, as he met with Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of Belarus Boleslav Pirshtuk on 18 July, BelTA has learned.

The MEP said: “Naturally, in order to establish a constructive dialogue it is necessary to advance relations between Belarus and European institutions.” In particular, he reminded about several spheres of interaction where positive dynamics has been registered. For instance, the decision to provide additional support with the development of the Bologna Process has been made. Phytosanitary control is being developed. Certain progress has been achieved in the joint monitoring of the quality of atmospheric air and in the prevention of emergencies.

According to the member of the European Parliament, the key task is to continue the dialogue. It is impossible to accomplish it without good communication and mutual understanding. He pointed out that it was the second time the delegation for relations with Belarus had arrived in the country. The visit is taking place after quite a lengthy hiatus. “We have just met with the minister of foreign affairs, who assured us that support for relations with the European Union has only been increased in this period. I hope that after the current visit support for organizing contacts will get higher,” added Bogdan Zdrojewski.

Bogdan Zdrojewski said he was confident that parliamentary democracy plays a significant role in the development of democracy in countries as a whole. “This is why the sphere of competence of the parliament is an important direction for us,” he noted. Close attention is paid to the development of the Eastern Partnership Initiative and interaction in EuroNest.

The member of the European Parliament pointed out that elections to the municipal councils of deputies are supposed to take place in Belarus in February. He said he hopes that additional progress in development will be secured after that electoral event.