Lukashenka not going to Eastern Partnership summit in Brussels

Belarus President Aliaksandr Lukashenka will not go to Brussels to attend the Eastern Partnership summit on 24 November. Just like at the previous summit, the Belarus delegation will be led by Minister for Foreign Affairs Uladzimir Makei, according to the statement by Andrei Shuliak, deputy head of Information Department at Belarusian MFA, reports BELTA.  Different from the previous event, this time Aliaksandr Lukashenka received a personal invitation. The MFA spokesman noted in his statement that Minsk accepted the invitation to the head of state with gratitude. According to Shupliak, this reflects progress in relations between Belarus and the European Union.

“In diplomatic practice, a visit by the head of state usually is a peak of mutual efforts to develop cooperation; it proves the achievement of deep systemic results,"  the MFA spokesman said. Judging by this wording, Minsk considers a visit by the head of state to the EU capital premature but it may take place in the future.

The statement also noted that Belarus is interested in having all EU restrictions in relations with Belarus removed. Minsk wants to continue talks that will lead to "the conclusion of a framework agreement on partnership and cooperation." Besides, MFA stressed Belarus is interested in further participation in the Eastern Partnership program.