Opinions & Interviews

Belarus, EU may sign Partnership Priorities agreement in 2018

Photo courtesy of ONT TV channel

Photo courtesy of ONT TV channel

MINSK, 10 September (BelTA) – The Belarus-EU Partnership Priorities agreement may be signed in 2018, Commissioner for European Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Johannes Hahn said in an interview to the ONT TV channel, BelTA has learned.

“We can sign the agreement when we complete the final stage of negotiations. I think we can do this soon. We just need the last step on Belarus’ behalf here,” said Johannes Hahn.

The agreement provides for investments in the economic development of Belarus taking into account the interests of the European Union. “It is important for us to have a strong economy nearby and understand that neighbors have created good conditions for the lives of their citizens,” the European Commissioner noted.

In his words, the launch of a 30-day visa-free stay for foreign citizens in Belarus will positively affect both the economic development of the country and its relations with the European Union. “This is another important part of our relationship. When this is strengthened by the Partnership Priorities agreement, the understanding between the parties will improve considerably,” Johannes Hahn added.

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