Opinions & Interviews

U.S. journalist laments lack of diplomacy between East, West

Patrick Henningsen

MINSK, 3 November (BelTA) – There is a lack of diplomacy and communication between East and West, U.S. journalist Patrick Henningsen, who arrived in Minsk for the ceremony of the third International Peace and Human Rights Award, told the media, BelTA has learned.

It was very difficult to get here. I came from the UK to Warsaw and planned to take a bus to Minsk. But when we got to Warsaw, all bus services were canceled. I waited for a bus in Warsaw for about 24 hours. In total, it took me 48 hours to get here from London, Patrick Henningsen said.

He explained the importance of such events where people who are not afraid to speak the truth meet. It’s great that people have different points of view on world events. Even if you disagree with a country’s position, you should still understand it. I think we don’t have enough debate and exchange of arguments. Right now, there is a lack of diplomacy between East and West, a lack of communication, the journalist noted.

Patrick Henningsen also pointed out that existing conflicts can be resolved. We can negotiate a settlement. We can have diplomacy if there is a free flow of information, he concluded.

The International Peace and Human Rights Award was established by the Emil Czeczko International Charitable Foundation. The award ceremony is held annually. Laureates are awarded based on their contribution to defending human rights in the world, public recognition of their achievements in causes related to human rights, as well as the social significance of their work. The list of nominees is impressive and features journalists, activists, politicians and cultural figures.

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