The talks showed that both sides share the assessment of recent developments in Belarus following the rigged presidential election in this country on 9 August. The interlocutors stressed the will and determination of the Belarusian society to bring about new and fair presidential election. They also emphasised that repressions by the Belarusian authorities against people taking part in peaceful protests are unacceptable. They agreed that the European Union urgently needs to adopt sanctions against those responsible for rigging the presidential election and the repressions, as well as to offer wide support to the civil society and the repressed.

It is understandable that Belarus will be one of key topics at the upcoming European Council, which should take decisions accordingly to the expectations of the Belarusian civil society. The EU emergency support package, as well as the long-term support, meets the expectations of Belarusians striving to bring about democratic and systemic transformation in their country. The EU should show solidarity and support these aspirations, highlighted the minister.

Minister Przydacz and Director van der Plas also discussed the poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny. Speaking of Nord Stream 2, Minister Przydacz reiterated Poland’s position on the project. He emphasised that the attempted poisoning of the Russian opposition politician is another proof that Russia cannot be viewed as a reliable partner, also in economic relations.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Press Office

Photo: Tymon Markowski / MFA