Opinions & Interviews

GOMEL, 26 October (BelTA) – Belarus aims for broad-format cooperation with Ukraine across the board. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko made the statement during the plenary session of the 1^st Forum of Regions of Belarus and Ukraine in Gomel on 26 October, BelTA has learned.

Alexander Lukashenko said: “Belarus is intent on a meaningful and constructive dialogue with its Ukrainian friends in any area. Our country aims for broad-format cooperation with Ukraine in all spheres in the spirit of trust and mutual support.”

Alexander Lukashenko pointed out that not only economy unites the two countries and the two nations but also tight humanitarian ties. Bilateral cooperation in sport, science, and education develops vigorously.

“Both countries have all the necessary conditions for preserving the identity of national diasporas. Ukrainian Culture Days in Belarus, which were a success in Minsk and the regions this summer, were an unforgettable event,” said the head of state.

Alexander Lukashenko reminded that the 2^nd European Games will take place in Minsk in 2019. The head of state stressed that Belarus would be happy to see Ukrainian athletes participate in the games. Belarusians will root for them just as they will for Belarusian athletes. “Because sport and events of this magnitude represent a strong uniting factor,” Alexander Lukashenko is convinced.

The head of state said he was confident that interregional cooperation between the two countries will get a second wind after the 1^st Forum of Regions of Belarus and Ukraine. “It will become an important impulse for coming up with new joint initiatives in the area of economy, culture, sport, tourism, education, and science,” said Alexander Lukashenko.