Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 3 June (BelTA) - India is in favor of the expansion and deepening of cooperation with Belarus, India President Pranab Mukherjee said as he met with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko in Minsk on 3 June, BelTA has learned.

Pranab Mukherjee stressed that it is the first visit of the Indian President to Belarus. "This is a proof that India intends to bolster ties with Belarus," the Indian leader said.

Pranab Mukherjee noted that he had good memories of the meetings and negotiations that took place during Alexander Lukashenko's visit to India. At that time, Pranab Mukherjee held the post of the Minister of External Affairs of India. The discussions held at the highest level then were important. They greatly contributed to the development of the Belarusian-Indian relations, Pranab Mukherjee noted.

The Indian leader also recalled that India was among the first countries to recognize the independence of Belarus and establish diplomatic relations. Since that time, India has made every effort to ensure that the interaction with Belarus should become more active.

Pranab Mukherjee assured that India will always support the sovereignty and independence of Belarus.