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Opinions & Interviews

11 Dec 2014

MP: Visa-free regime introduction between Belarus and Israel is of historical significance

MINSK, 11 December (BelTA) – The abolition of visas between Belarus and Israel is of historical significance, member of the House of Representatives’ permanent commission on state construction, local government and regulations Alexander Popkov told media on 11 December, BelTA has learned.

“I believe it is of historical importance. You know that many of former Belarusian nationals live and work in Israel today. We have very good business contacts. Those people who left want to visit Belarus,” the MP said.

In his words, people of the two countries are bound not only by family ties but also the tragic events of the Second World War. Nearly 850,000 Jews died in Belarus during the war. Over 500 residents of the country were granted the title of the Righteous among the Nations. These people were saving Jews during Hitler’s occupation. “These are 500 persons out of the total 754 title-holders in the world,” the MP said.

Alexander Popkov also stressed that many Israeli leaders are of Belarusian descent. “This will give us more opportunities to develop political, economic and other relations,” he added.

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