S.Martynov: Belarus maintains relations both with EU and Russia

Interior changes in Belarus are caused not by the external pressure but by the needs and opportunities of Belarusian society, said during his speech in Berlin hotel “Adlon” Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus Sergei Martynov on February, 11.

Interior changes in Belarus are caused not by the external pressure but by the needs and opportunities of Belarusian society, said during his speech in Berlin hotel “Adlon” Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus Sergei Martynov on February, 11.

The current situation in Belarus is the result of the changes in the country – if earlier “there was a need for a heavy hand of the government to solve all the problems the country was facing” then now it is more effective to make steps towards liberalization.

Belarus for Europe is first of all an important transit country. And it was most evidently seen during the gas conflict between Russia and Belarus when Belarus “showed her responsibility” for the fulfillment of commitments and demonstrated a desire not only to continue and increase the transit but also the availability of technical opportunities.

S.Martynov pointed out that Belarus “is located between the two giant neighbors – European Union and Russia and, she is happy to have good relations with both of them”. And in this situation it is impossible to talk about choosing one of the parties for the extension of the relations. “We do not need to choose and we will not. Our choice is good relations with both parties”, - said the Minister. Being in good relations with Russia “we are making all the efforts to open the economy” for EU also, he added.

According to S.Martynov, cooperation extension should start from the increase in European investments in Belarus. Liberalization trends in Belarusian economy are aimed mainly at the investment climate improvement. According to him, Belarus id “the safest country among post-soviet ones” to invest in.

In his turn Federal Minister of the Interior Frank-Walter Schteinmeier approved the “the moves toward reforms made by Belarus during the recent weeks and months” and added that “the proposed by the EU new project “Eastern partnership” gives opportunities for Belarus as well”.

The Minister expressed the hope that Belarusian government won’t stop at what has been accomplished in the process of liberalization and will continue the gradual implementation of the reforms.