Belarusian-Ukrainian relations, prospects for cooperation between Minsk and Kiev, building a dialogue with the new President and possible options for resolving the conflict in Donbas.
President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko had a big and frank conversation with representatives of the major Ukrainian mass media yesterday. The heads of news agencies, chief editors and special correspondents of the major TV channels came to us. The discussion at the Palace of Independence took place on the most pressing topics, where there were no uncomfortable questions. And in this case, it literally touched upon the vital situation of our neighbors. They also talked about the external course of our country and how it can affect the Belarusian-Ukrainian relations.
During these turbulent years, Belarus and Ukraine have managed not only to maintain trustful relations, but also to strengthen cooperation. Last year, the mutual trade rose by 20% with the final figure of $5.5 billion. Our country has provided support to tens of thousands of Ukrainian refugees and is making every effort to preserve peace in the region, including by providing a platform for dialogue.
The conversation with Ukrainian journalists took place on the eve of the Forum of the regions, which is scheduled for next week. The position of the Belarusian President is always interesting for his neighbors: the Ukrainian media community needs firsthand information.
