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EU has noticed «positive steps» by Belarusian government, says Lithuanian deputy foreign minister

The European Union has noticed several "positive steps" by the Belarusian government, Lithuanian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrius Krivas said in Vilnius on Monday, speaking during an international conference on the theme of "Strategies for the Future Policy towards Belarus."

In particular, the government has allowed Sweden to reopen its embassy in Belarus, has not joined Russia`s discriminatory measures against Ukraine and Moldova and currently considers recognizing the territorial integrity of Georgia, Mr. Krivas said.

He noted that the EU had proposed Schengen visa facilitation talks to Belarus and expressed hope that Minsk would finally accept the proposal.

Mr. Krivas stressed that the release and exoneration of all political prisoners in Belarus continued to be the main condition for the EU`s reengagement with Belarus.

He said that Lithuania supported the EU`s policy of "critical engagement" regarding Belarus.

Mr. Krivas expressed regret that Belarusian Foreign Minister Uladzimir Makey and Deputy Foreign Minister Alena Kupchyna had rejected an invitation to participate in the conference. "Although I understand and respect the sensitivity of the Belarusian colleagues—there will be many critical remarks here today—it is also important to understand that a dialogue is necessary for progress," he said. //BelaPAN