Ambassador: EU concerned about lack of democratic progress in Belarus
Friday, 04 September 2009
The
European Union is concerned about the lack of progress toward democracy in
Belarus recently, outgoing British Ambassador Nigel Gould-Davies said at a
farewell news conference in Minsk on September 1, BelaPANsaid.
“The European Union has certain concerns that recently we have not seen the progress that there was previously,” he said.
The
diplomat noted that Minsk had taken “certain steps” last year to
improve relations with the EU. “We hope for continuation as this will
be beneficial for Belarus,” he stressed.
Mr. Gould-Davies said
that the EU and the United States would consider whether or not to
abolish their sanctions against Belarus’ top government officials this
November. “If Belarus hopes for a favorable decision, it would be
useful for it to do what it needs to,” he said.
The EU wants
the Belarusian authorities to reform the country’s electoral
regulations and secure more freedom and rights for the media and civil
society, according to the ambassador. “The European Union’s position on
the subject remains steady and consistent. The EU displayed its
readiness to respond to Belarus’ steps long ago. The EU is ready to
continue expanding cooperation but expects certain efforts in return,”
he said.
Mr. Gould-Davies noted that the European Union’s
decision to invite Belarus to participate in its Eastern Partnership
program was evidence of the 27-nation bloc’s readiness to develop
cooperation with the country.
“One should understand the
importance of the Eastern Partnership in a broader sense. It not only
allows Belarus to receive some material benefits but also has a
symbolic importance. Belarus has been included in one of Europe’s main
projects for the first time ever, which opens up new doors and
opportunities for the country,” he said.
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