Minsk negotiating platform was highly appreciated by almost all forum participants. The key word in impressions about Belarus is “stability”. Belarus takes a unique geostrategic position in which Minsk shows itself from the best side.
Charles Grant, director of the Center for European Reforms: "Many people think that the best we can do is to hope for so-called strategic patience. The Ukrainian side is impatient. There is much hope for an immediate improvement in the situation, and many people say that it is necessary to expand the format of negotiations. Serious proposals were made."
Damdin Tsogtbaata, Foreign Minister of Mongolia: “Small countries do not have strategic nuclear weapons, but they are an integral part of the security system. And therefore I think that the leading powers should take some decisions or steps to listen to small states, let them participate in the global security system. And the most important thing is that there is always a chance to find a common language, dialogue is always possible. And it is necessary to find any opportunity, even the smallest one, to hold a conversation."
Andrei Kortunov, Director General of the Russian Council on International Affairs: "Maybe it’s time to talk not about arms control, but about joint arms management, especially since these weapons are becoming more and more dangerous".
Thomas Greminger, OSCE Secretary General: "I find this conference very timely. Especially, under the circumstances, when there is this conflict between East and West. It’s very timely to create a space for dialogue. In this sense, I welcome this conference".
