Antanas Valionis: “The Only Way Forwards Is Democratisation and Reforms” :: Charter'97 :: News

Belarus is a European country, and people of Belarus deserve to live in democratic and flourishing state. Unfortunately, Alyaksandr Lukashenka is more and more geared to the Soviet Union of the period of stagnation, though we all know perfectly what had happened to the Soviet Union. The only way forward is democratization and reforms. First of all, Belarus needs strong civil societyю It’s the first step on the way to creation of a democratic and flourishing state,” told Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Antanas Valionis in an exclusive interview to Roman Yakovlevskiy (www.w-europe.org).

«I would like to note that Lithuania as the state of the European Union, agrees with the policy of the EU concerning Belarus, and our active actions in relations with Belarus is not accidental. First, we should not forget that Belarus is a neighbouring state, which is connected with Lithuania not only by borders (a western border of the EU!), but by close economical, social ties, common historical experience. Secondly, Lithuania is not interested in limitations in the relations with its neighbours, thus a strong, and sometimes even very harsh position of the EU can influence established mutually beneficial relations between the neighbours. That is why this policy of Lithuania deserves the name “improvisation” proposed by you. We do not think that it is bad, because it proves once again that we have chosen the right way in the development of relations with Belarus, both at the bilateral and European levels.

The both states are trying to preserve and develop the relations which are advantageous for the citizens of our two states, not to break social ties, to develop the sphere of business. The EU is interested by the situation of the human rights, development of civil society, and it is reflected in its policy. These aspects are not uncongenial to us, that is why we are trying to find a solution acceptable for the both sides, actively preserving our positions,” Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs said.

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