Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 25 October (BelTA) – Unilateral sanctions in foreign policy are unacceptable and counterproductive, Anatoly Glaz, Head of the Information and Digital Diplomacy Office, Press Secretary of the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said commenting on the extension of the suspension of sanctions against nine Belarusian enterprises, BelTA learned.

“Belarus’ fundamental position on this issue remains unchanged: unilateral sanctions in foreign policy are unacceptable and counterproductive. We will continue to interact with the United States, which will contribute to the lifting of the U.S. sanctions against our country,” Anatoly Glaz said.

Anatoly Glaz noted that the sanctions relief against companies, in particular those of the petrochemical industry, has been extended for one year rather than six months, as it was before. “This step of the President Donald Trump Administration will contribute to the strengthening of our trade and economic relations with the United States. Moreover, it is very important for business as now Belarusian and American businessmen have an opportunity to make long-term cooperation plans with more confidence,” he stressed.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury renewed Belarus’ sanctions relief that authorizes transactions with Belarus-based entities under U.S. President’s Executive Order 13405. The matter pertains to the following companies: Belarusian Oil Trade House, Belneftekhim, Belneftekhim USA, Inc., Belshina, Grodno Azot, Grodno Khimvolokno, Lakokraska, Naftan, and Polotsk Steklovolokno. The decision will be valid through 25 October 2019.