Opinions & Interviews

FM: Unlocking full potential of cooperation with Belarus is important for Sweden

MINSK, 25 November (BelTA) - It is important for Sweden to unlock the full potential of cooperation with Belarus, Sweden’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Ann Linde said at a meeting with Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko in Minsk on 25 November, BelTA has learned.

At the beginning of the meeting, the Belarusian head of state suggested having an open conversation and, if there is a wish, avoiding diplomatic procedures. Ann Linde thanked the president for this opportunity and noted that while there are issues between the parties, on which agreement is yet to be reached, it is very important to continue the open discussion.

“It is very important for us to engage the full untapped potential of cooperation between our states," the minister said.

She noted that she had been to Minsk several times, but this is the first time she is visiting the Belarusian capital in the capacity of the minister of foreign affairs. “Finland, Sweden and Belarus are the countries of the same region, and we have a lot to discuss. We face common environmental problems related to the climate change. We also work closely together on many issues in trade, on increasing the level of contacts between citizens of our countries," said Ann Linde.

In her opinion, Belarus and Sweden have great opportunities to boost cooperation not only across the existing areas but also in new avenues. “Our relations have improved significantly over the past year, and we welcome this trend," the Swedish minister said.

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