Meeting with Belarus’ Honorary Consul in Belgrade Dragomir Karic

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has met with Belarus’ Honorary Consul in Belgrade, Chairman of the Serbia-Belarus Friendship Group in the Serbian Parliament Dragomir Karic.

“As for relations with our dear Serbia, I think that there are practically no problems here. I sincerely believe that we have such good relations in many ways thanks to your work and assertiveness. I remember my meetings with the former president [of Serbia] and the incumbent one - you always pushed us forward. In a way I am your president too,” the head of state said.

“You are my president, indeed,” Dragomir Karic responded.

“I agree. You have always been the driver of these processes. And I am very glad that you landed in Belarus, found your niche and are working here. You are very well known in Belarus. I believe your construction company has already become a household name. Even our domestic companies are less recognizable. Your company has built a strong public profile and is known for good construction quality,” the Belarusian leader said.

He noted that he had always admired the Yugoslav construction specialists. “Yet, you managed to raise that quality even to a higher level. Comfort, quality, and reliability – this is what defines you. But sometimes you miss deadlines, don’t you?” the head of state asked.

“We are ahead of the schedule,” Dragomir Karic assured.

“On individual facilities,” Minsk Mayor Vladimir Kukharev noted.

“Therefore, we are glad to have a company that works effectively. Anyway, we have gathered today to discuss more specific issues and the company,” Aleksandr Lukashenko added.

“As far as the work with Serbia is concerned, please give my best wishes to the President [Aleksandar Vucic]. We have always been and will remain reliable friends. Both to our brother Vucic, and the Serbian people,” the Belarusian leader said.

Aleksandr Lukashenko assured that Belarus has always been determined to support Serbia and the Serbian people as much as possible. “We also feel this support from Serbia. The main thing now is to survive the hard times,” the Belarusian leader said.

“That is right,” Dragomir Karic agreed.

“So as not to let anyone bring us to our knees,” the head of state said.

“Absolutely right,” the honorary consul responded.

Aleksandr Lukashenko recalled that Serbia had gone through hard times as well. “You and I saw it with our own eyes when everything was broken, bombed. It was hard to imagine that Belgrade was bombed. Having gone through those hard times, we have to withstand. I think we will succeed,” he said.

“I am sure about it. First of all, I would like to wish you strong health from my big family. For your courage, for what you have been doing for your people. This is done not just for your people but for international law and other nations,” Dragomir Karic said.

Aleksandr Lukashenko said that the situation in the Balkans often comes up in our meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"I must tell you that we talk about the Balkans at almost every meeting with President Putin. Who do we have in the Balkans? Right, we have Serbia. The foothold of the Slavs in the Balkans in all times. It still is today. Very often we discuss the problems that you are dealing with. We are committed to very good cooperation," the head of state said.

Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic is well aware of this. He has recently met with the Russian President. "Putin holds people he can rely on in high regard. We often talk about Serbia," he added.