Lukashenka: Putin and I are not only brothers, but also friends

Extracts from the interview of the Belarusian dictator with a Russian TV channel have been published.

Lukashenka does not think that Minsk's role as a platform for negotiations over the Ukrainian conflict will help improve relations with the West.

Aliaksandr Lukashenka said it in an interview with Sergei Brilev, the author of the programme “Vesti v Subbotu” (Saturday News) on Russia 1 TV channel, BelTA reports.

“I wouldn't say we have improved relations with them. I don't have any hopes. I'd like to say absolutely honestly: I am not at the age when people suddenly change their mind and flip-flop. Firstly, excuse me for not being modest, I have certain political experience, not only knowledge, which I have too. I've already seen everything. I've seen and conducted different sorts of negotiations,” Lukashenka stressed.

“I know all this. Why do you think it made my head swim? Because I was asked, I was ordered to organise the event?” he noted. “I do not exaggerate the role of Belarus and myself here. I do not exaggerate it.”

“If you think this is the reason to make me turn somewhere, forget it. Firstly, it will never happen. Secondly, I say it honestly, they do not invite and do not wait for me there. Thirdly, you and I are Russians. We were born on one land. We have common history. We have common views. And, which is also important, whatever you think may of our relations, the Russian president and I are not only brothers, but also friends. Remember it,” Lukashenka stressed.