Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 10 February (BelTA) – Belarusian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Valentin Rybakov presented Belarus’ approaches to fighting contemporary slavery at a high-level event In Stronger Partnership and Coordination to Stop Human Trafficking: Eradicating Modern-Day Slavery through Sustainable Development held at the UN headquarters in New York on 9 February, BelTA learned from the press service of the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Valentin Rybakov was a keynote speaker. He presented Belarus’ approaches to the eradication of contemporary slavery in the context of the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Besides, he briefed the participants about the country’s achievements in the fight against trafficking in human beings. “Valentin Rybakov called for better coordination of the efforts of all partners in countering human trafficking,” the ministry added.

The event was attended by representatives of UN member states and international non-governmental organizations. “The speakers unanimously praised Belarus’ contribution to the international efforts to combat human trafficking,” the press service of the ministry added.

The event was organized by Belarus, the coordinator of the Group of Friends United against Human Trafficking, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. The participants were welcomed by President of the UN General Assembly Mogens Lykketoft, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, and other UN officials.