Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 24 November (BelTA) – Belarus’ role in European politics is on the rise, BelTA learned from Chairman of the International Affairs Commission of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of Belarus Valery Voronetsky. The MP met with Deputy Director of the Policy Planning Staff at the Federal Foreign Office of Germany Sebastian Groth.

The meeting took place at premises of the lower chamber of the Belarusian parliament upon the initiative of the German side. In an open and committed manner the sides discussed in detail the state and prospects of advancing relations between Belarus and the European Union as well as the role and place of Belarus in efforts to ensure stability and security in the region taking into account historical and geopolitical development aspects.

Valery Voronetsky stressed that rising contradictions between the European Union and Russia damage the competitive ability and security of entire Europe. “In these conditions Belarus’ role in European politics as a country able to work as a link between Western Europe and Eastern Europe, between the European Union and Russia objectively grows and can facilitate stronger unity and compatibility in the eastern European region,” said the MP.

On 24 November Valery Voronetsky also met with Christophe Lejeune, Chairman of the France-Belarus Friendship Group in the French parliament. The sides exchanged opinions about a large number of matters, including ways to advance cooperation in trade and economy, education, and other spheres. Close attention was paid to the advancement of the interparliamentary dialogue.

Valery Voronetsky mentioned the positive dynamics of development of Belarus-France relations. He spoke in favor of further advancement of interparliamentary interaction, including via reciprocal visits.

In turn, Christophe Lejeune also expressed interest in stepping up interparliamentary contacts.