Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with PKO bank CEO Shimon Midera on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos. The sides discussed problems faced by Belarusian citizens when opening bank accounts, Tsikhanouskaya’s Office reported.
Midera said the bank has always sought to support Belarusians, and that existing restrictions are linked not to the bank’s policy but to new European Union regulations related to the war, aimed at closing loopholes used to circumvent sanctions against Belarus and Russia.
The sides discussed difficulties in opening accounts for Belarusians who do not yet have residence permits or work permits in Poland, or whose passports have expired. Tsikhanouskaya proposed introducing exceptions for Belarusians, which would require additional consultations with European regulators. Possibilities for supporting small Belarusian businesses and holding joint events were also discussed.
“We discussed acute problems faced by thousands of Belarusians in Poland. Mr. Midera understands perfectly well that these are people who live legally in Poland, pay taxes, create businesses, and contribute to the economy. Their lives require clear, transparent, and secure rules. It is precisely such solutions that protect both banks and people, and strengthen European solidarity at a time when Belarus is fighting for freedom and independence,” Tsikhanouskaya said.