UA
FR
DEUkraine regards Belarus‘ decision to suspend participation in the EU’s Eastern Partnership initiative as disrespect for the values of democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. It contradicts the interests of the Belarusian people and their historical belonging to the family of European nations.
“Ukraine is convinced that this unilateral step in no way deprives the Belarusian people of their right to rapprochement with the European Union and cooperation within the framework of the Eastern Partnership on the basis of European values and with a view to strengthen the European idea in our region,” reads the statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.
As noted, Ukraine is ready to help Belarusian civil society maintain access to Eastern Partnership activities and projects, as well as to promote further dialogue and contacts between Belarusian civil society and the European Union.
At the same time, the current situation in the Eastern Partnership on the eve of its forthcoming summit shows the urgent need to rethink the strategic goal of this important EU initiative, strengthen its geopolitical significance, and open European prospects for those member states that aspire to them. This will facilitate the development of cooperation of all countries in the region on the basis of European values and strengthen their resistance to external challenges.
Natalia Tolub
