Updated at 12:43,09-12-2024

Lukashenko suggests reinvigorating Belarus-Serbia relations


Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko suggested intensifying Belarus-Serbia relations as he met with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Baku, BelTA has learned.

“We have been maintaining diplomatic contacts for thirty years. Much has been done, but tremendous changes have occurred in our country and in Serbia. This is obvious. Life goes on. I think that we need to revitalize our relations. It is bad that our relations are not as vibrant as we want to. We are aware of the stumbling blocks,” said the Belarusian head of state.

Aleksandr Lukashenko suggested that the intergovernmental commission should gather, review bilateral relations and map out plans for further cooperation. “If something has become irrelevant, it should be discarded, and new paths should be outlined. We should not just maintain relations, we should take it up a notch despite all the difficulties,” the Belarusian leader said.

After the intergovernmental commission does its job, Aleksandr Lukashenko suggested that the Belarusian prime minister visit Serbia. He also proposed to exchange government delegations. “In order to specify the further action plan. After that, we could approve all the proposals at the highest level,” the head of state explained.

“There are many areas of cooperation. I understand Serbia and I have often said that you are in a difficult position, as you are practically surrounded, isolated. We should take it into account as we build our policy. It is necessary to keep old friends and thus maintain relations with Russia and Belarus. These are true friends, genuine friends, and I believe that Serbia should focus on this,” the Belarusian leader added.