Фото: lookby.media
A delegation of Belarusian democratic forces has begun work at the autumn session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), which is being held in Strasbourg from September 28 to October 2. The renewed delegation comprises Uladzimir Astapenka, Pavel Latushka and Ksenia Lutsikina, with Yauhen Andreichyk and Aliaksandra Mamaeva serving as their deputies, the Coordination Council reports.
On the first day, the delegation met with PACE President Petra Bayr. The sides discussed the situation in Belarus and the region, ongoing repression and the plight of political prisoners. Latushka presented the democratic forces’ strategy and emphasized the importance of the principle of “nothing about us without us.”
The Belarusian delegation also met with German parliamentarians. Discussions focused on recent releases of political prisoners, deportations, the situation of those who remain imprisoned, and problems faced by Belarusians living in Germany, including obtaining documents and legalizing their status. The German side said it saw no signs of improvement in the situation in Belarus. The sides also discussed the establishment of a “For a Democratic Belarus” group at PACE.
At a meeting with the Polish delegation, the sides discussed the situation in the region and further cooperation. The Polish side reaffirmed its support for Belarusian initiatives at PACE. Agnieszka Pomaska spoke about her recent visit to Białystok and an upcoming address to the Committee on Culture, where she intends to raise the issue of the situation of Belarusian culture in exile.
During the session, the delegation also plans to meet with national delegations, PACE committees, diplomats and representatives of the governments of individual countries.