"We are waiting for them, but they must mature": foreign ministers of Belarus and Russia on dialogue with the European Union
11:06, 4 November
Photo: BELTA
Interest in the ideas of multipolarity and diversity is growing: representatives of more than 50 countries are taking part in the IV Minsk International Conference on Eurasian Security. This was stated by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Belarus and Russia, Maxim Ryzhenkov and Sergei Lavrov, during a conversation on the sidelines of the forum, reports BELTA.
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According to Maxim Ryzhenkov, some participants actively promote the ideas of diversity and multipolarity, while others have come to familiarize themselves with these approaches and compare them with their own views. "This is also useful. Let them listen and draw conclusions. Let them compare," said the head of the Russian Foreign Ministry.
The interlocutors emphasized that the approaches of Belarus and Russia to the development of Eurasian cooperation are based on peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and consideration of each other's interests. They named recognition of the cultural, economic, political, and humanitarian diversity of states as an important condition for interaction.
Sergei Lavrov drew attention to the fact that such an approach allows for the coordination of practical areas of cooperation: a rational division of labor, the development of logistics routes, the use of natural resources, and the harmonization of the activities of regional organizations. "So as not to engage in the same project, but to somehow agree so that each has its own niche, and together they form a harmonious picture. This is a long-term goal, but I think it is quite realistic to move toward it," he noted.
Maxim Ryzhenkov added that the Eurasian space needs a common integration "umbrella spirit": today it unites various organizations. Both ministers emphasized that a single platform for coordinating approaches is being formed in Minsk.
Separately, they touched upon the prospects for the participation of European Union countries in the Eurasian dialogue. According to Maxim Ryzhenkov, Belarus and Russia do not push European states away and are ready to see them at the common table. According to him, self-isolation does not serve the interests of the peoples of Europe. "By and large, we are waiting for them, but they must mature," said the head of the Belarusian foreign policy department.
"Life will force it," added Sergei Lavrov. He also noted that the truth is making its way, although he expressed doubt that it will necessarily break through in the end.
