Russia promises to “look after” Belarus and EU’s relations

“Russia is to closely follow the policies of the EU at the post-Soviet space,” stated the Russian Ambassador to the European Union, Vladimir Chizhov.

In this way he commented the Eastern Partnership program presented by the EU previously, the Deutsche Welle informs.

Chizhov assured that Russia does not lay claims for monopoly in the relations with the former Soviet republics.

The Russian Ambassador to the European Union also added that Russia cannot join the Eastern Partnership program because the format of its relations with the EU is different.

As it has been informed, on December 3 a new Eastern Partnership initiative aimed at eastern European neighbours and partners was presented in Brussels. The initiative is addressed to Belarus, Moldova, Ukraine, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia.

Certain steps are expected from Belarus by the EU. Beside to adaptation of the whole body of laws of the EU, recognition of the European Court decision signing the memorandum on mutual understanding in the sphere of energy security, the Belarusian regime should demonstrate progress in liberalization and democratization. The stage of Belarus’ participation in the project would be defined only after half a year period after sanctions suspension.