Lukashenko received letters of credence from foreign ambassadors
The President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, accepted the letters of credence from ambassadors of foreign countries, reports a BELTA correspondent.
The letters of credence were presented to the head of the Belarusian state by diplomats from the Vatican, Vietnam, Mali, the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, Niger, Slovakia, Sudan, and Ethiopia.
Addressing the diplomats, the President assured that Belarus is always glad to welcome those who are aimed at strengthening bridges of friendship, respect the people and sovereignty of Belarus.
He emphasized that in Belarus, representatives of 130 nationalities and 25 confessions live in peace and harmony: "Thanks to the pursued policy of public unity and deep traditions, we have no conflicts on ethnic and religious grounds. We cherish this and take pride in it."
The President expects that the diplomats will make every effort to give a positive dynamic to bilateral relations with Belarus.
"We will always respond - within a day for sure - to all your requests, proposals," said the Belarusian leader. "Feel at home here. And if anyone wants to stay here after their service - just say, you are most welcome."
Alexander Lukashenko noted that the Ambassador of Slovakia, Jozef Migas, had previously headed the diplomatic mission of his country in Belarus: "He knows that it will be fine in Belarus. And he can also do a lot for his country."
The head of state wished the diplomats success and good health. "Belarus is a country where you will not lose your health, but gain it," the President noted.
"We look forward to your initiatives, projects of any complexity and scale. Rest assured that the conditions for work will be comfortable and favorable. Do not linger in offices, explore the country, visit enterprises, appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the historical and cultural heritage, the richness of nature, the wisdom of our people, and the breadth of Belarusian hospitality. There are no forbidden zones for you," assured the Belarusian leader.
Alexander Lukashenko also traditionally spoke about cooperation with each of the countries represented by the ambassadors.
Slovakia
The President noted that the mission to develop relations between Slovakia and Belarus is entrusted to his long-time acquaintance and experienced statesman Jozef Migas.
"We highly value the independent course that Bratislava is pursuing. It is pursued courageously and with dignity, despite external pressure and threats. We discussed this with Prime Minister Robert Fico in Beijing," the head of state reminded.
The President stated that Robert Fico is expected back in Belarus: "In a friendly atmosphere, we will discuss all issues, show the memorial sites related to the heroic history of World War II. I am confident that we can do a lot for our countries."
Vietnam
Alexander Lukashenko called Vietnam one of Belarus's key partners in the Asian region, where "the engine of global development is gaining momentum."
"Through joint efforts, we have elevated the traditionally friendly Belarusian-Vietnamese ties to the level of strategic interaction," said the Belarusian leader.
The head of state added that Belarus is firmly committed to implementing all agreements reached with the leadership of Vietnam. "Mr. Ambassador, we hope to see practical results of our joint and fruitful work in the near future," Alexander Lukashenko addressed the diplomat from Vietnam.
Vatican
Speaking about the relations between Belarus and the Vatican, the President emphasized that they are based on mutual respect, dialogue, and traditional values, as well as on the closeness or coincidence of approaches to many international issues.
"We highly appreciate the consistent, sincere position of the Vatican against sanctions," Alexander Lukashenko stated. "I see significant potential for uniting our efforts for peace in Europe and on the planet."
The Belarusian leader assured that Belarus is ready to discuss any issues of a global and bilateral format with the new representative of the pontiff in Belarus.
Sovereign Military Order of Malta
According to the President, Belarus is interested in expanding cooperation with the Sovereign Military Order of Malta in implementing humanitarian projects, including those related to the development of healthcare and social protection systems.
"We appreciate the support previously provided and sincerely hope that the arrival of the ambassador, who has already worked in this capacity in our country, will give an impetus to cooperation," Alexander Lukashenko said.
Ethiopia
The head of the Belarusian state called Ethiopia a long-standing and reliable partner of Belarus in East Africa: "We respectfully observe the independent foreign policy course of our Ethiopian friends, understand and share your principled position on key issues of the international agenda."
The President expects the swift implementation of agreements on enhancing cooperation reached with the Prime Minister of Ethiopia at the BRICS platform in Kazan.
"This is personally entrusted to the foreign ministers. A roadmap needs to be adopted, and we must advance in all directions - from the technical equipping of agriculture to the education of Ethiopian students in Belarusian universities," Alexander Lukashenko is confident.
Mali
The President, speaking about Mali, noted that this country is experiencing a new period in its history. Mali is strengthening its sovereignty and implementing serious reforms important for improving the level and quality of life of its population, he emphasized.
"Belarus is open for cooperation. Our relations need a solid trade and economic foundation. Moreover, we already have experience from our work with African countries," Alexander Lukashenko said.
Niger
Alexander Lukashenko assured that Belarus is interested in developing friendly and mutually beneficial ties with Niger. The head of state emphasized that this country plays a key role in the Sahel region of Africa, especially in the areas of security and counter-terrorism.
"We are ready to lend a helping hand in addressing the challenges you face in defense, food security, industrialization of various sectors of the economy, training personnel, and providing medical care to the population. We also have experience," he said.
Sudan
The Belarusian leader called Sudan one of Belarus's long-standing and proven partners on the African continent: "Our products, especially agricultural machinery, are well known in your country."
The President wished the friendly people of Sudan peace and stability and expressed confidence that this would help unlock significant potential for cooperation in industry, agriculture, energy, education, and healthcare.