Opinions & Interviews

According to the diplomat, the relations between France and Belarus have acquired a new context. The EU has lifted almost all its sanctions. These were very important decisions which were promoted by France as well. The Ambassador stressed that before going to Minsk he was instructed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs to develop all-round cooperation with Belarus.

Didier Canesse believes that it is important to strengthen both the political dialogue and bilateral trade and economic relations, as well as cultural ties, since these are closely interlinked. The diplomat emphasized that the development of trade and economic relations are among his priorities. The Ambassador believes that bilateral exchanges still do not correspond to Belarus’ potential and France’s economic weight which is one of the world’s leading economies. According to Didier Canesse, the two countries should do their best to distribute the information among businessmen about the possibilities of the Belarusian market and the country's efforts to improve the environment for investors. It is no mere chance that Belarus moved up to the 37^th spot in the last World Bank doing business report, the Ambassador noted.

The diplomat also hailed Belarus’ peacemaking efforts in respect to the settlement of the conflict in the east of Ukraine. He stressed that it is important to fulfill the Minsk Agreement in every aspect: humanitarian, political and security affairs. France stays committed to the Normandy format. The talks are difficult but they should be continued as there is no other alternative, Didier Canesse said. He thanked Belarus for offering its platform for the meetings.