European Parliament's President condemns actions of Belarusian authorities
Martin Schulz made a statement following a decision of the Belarus authorities to ask the ambassadors of the EU and of Poland to leave the country:
Here is the text of the statement: "I deeply regret this decision. It is a disproportionate, unhelpful and counterproductive step. It harms further the relations between Belarus and the European Union.
I consider it a hostile act.
Instead of choosing increasing self-isolation, Minsk should make the right choice for its people and open itself towards democracy.
As the first step, Belarus should release unconditionally and rehabilitate all political prisoners. This would help in a review of the EU's restrictive measures and allow Belarus and the EU to embark on the path of gradual re-engagement.
The European Union and Belarus should have good neighbourly relations. The European Parliament supports civil society and the democratic aspirations of the Belarusian people."
