Meeting with Prince Michael of Kent

Belarus hopes to open a new page in the relations with the United Kingdom, Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko said as he met with Prince Michael of Kent, a member of the British royal family, on 11 October.

Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed that Belarus and the United Kingdom do not have insurmountable issues in the interstate relations. “Frankly speaking, the United Kingdom, perhaps, was not very much interested in the situation in Belarus, and, most likely, followed the policy of Brussels,” the head of state said. “I hope that your visit will open a new page in our relations, and that you will provide information about Belarus to the politicians and businessmen who show an interest in Belarus.”

“We strongly hope that our relations with the United Kingdom will be improving. We have a huge interest in trade,” the President said.

He remarked that the United Kingdom is one of Belarus’ top trading and investment partners. “This is a good foundation for further cooperation. I want you to know that we honestly and sincerely welcome your business in Belarus,” the head of state said.

The President added that Belarus does not have any restrictions and obligations impeding the development of trade and cooperation in various fields with the United Kingdom.

Aleksandr Lukashenko also thanked for the assistance and charity projects initiated by the United Kingdom for the children from the Chernobyl-affected territories. “You offered us a helping hand and helped thousands of children to improve their health. We are grateful to you for this,” the Belarusian leader remarked.

Prince Michael of Kent, for his part, thanked for the warm welcome and noted that it is a great pleasure for him to be in Belarus. He emphasized that he is the first representative of the British royal family visiting Belarus. The Prince agreed that it is essential to develop and improve Belarus-UK relations.