Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko responded to those who criticize Belarus for multi-vector foreign policy and link the recent pardon of several dozen so-called "political prisoners" with Belarus’ attempt to turn to the West. The president made the statements as he met with Governor of Russia’s Smolensk Oblast Vasily Anokhin in Minsk on 18 November, BelTA has learned.

"Some in Russia are saying some foolish things: 'Well, Lukashenko, multi-vector policy... He pardoned another several dozens of political prisoners. It means that he is already heading to the West...'. Look, it is very primitive thinking. Bad as it gets. We see and hear that," the head of state said. "Our main foreign policy principle and desire is to live in peace with our neighbors. They are God-given. Poles have been our neighbors for centuries. We cannot do anything about the unfriendly position the Polish leadership has taken towards Belarus today. Are Poles responsible for this? Well, to some extent, yes: they elect the government. But most Poles want to live in peace with us."

"The same situation is with Lithuanians, Latvians, Ukrainians. What can we do if the leadership [of these countries] pursues such a policy... This is why we calmly and purposefully try to build relations with them. These are our interests," the Belarusian leader emphasized.

According to him, Belarus develops relations with Russia in the same way: "Russia does not take a dim view of us. It does not harm us in any way. Instead, it supports us in the most difficult times. Certainly, we respond in kind.”

belta.by