During two days of talks between Alyaksandr Lukashenka and U.S. Special Envoy for Belarus John Coale, the sides discussed issues related to the normalization of relations. The U.S. representative stated this to journalists following the meetings, BelTA reported.
According to John Coale, the talks with Alyaksandr Lukashenka were highly productive.
“We talked about the war between Ukraine and Russia, about Venezuela. President Lukashenka mentioned many people and many things. We had a very good conversation. We spoke about the future, about how to move toward bringing the United States and Belarus closer together in order to normalize relations. That is our goal,” the U.S. representative said.
Responding to a question about what should be done for further normalization, John Coale said: “Exactly what we are already doing. We are lifting sanctions, releasing prisoners. We are talking to each other constantly.”
“As we grow closer and closer, talk more, exchange ideas, the process is moving—so to speak—from the first infant steps to more confident steps,” the U.S. representative said.
According to Coale, Lukashenka is offering good advice on resolving the conflict in Ukraine.
“I spoke with your president on various issues. He helps, he advises us on what to do regarding the war between Russia and Ukraine. These are good pieces of advice. Various issues of that kind,” he said.
Regarding the progress toward ending the Russian-Ukrainian war and the role Belarus may play, Coale pointed to the factor of “long-standing good relations” that have developed between Alyaksandr Lukashenka and Vladimir Putin.
“Your president has a long history of relations with President Putin; he has the ability to give him advice. This is very useful in this situation. They are long-time friends and have the necessary level of relations to discuss such matters. Naturally, President Putin may accept some advice and decline others. This is a way to help the process,” Coale said.