Republic

Lukashenko explains why he is happy with CIS summit in Moscow

At a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko told his Russian counterpart what he liked about the CIS summit that had taken place the day before, BelTA has learned.

“Yesterday and the day before yesterday we had the opportunity to discuss global issues, the world’s flashpoints. What was gratifying for me and I am sure for you too was realization that we are on the same page regarding global developments. We discussed domestic [issues], and it was a frank conversation without any beating around the bush,” the Belarusian leader noted.

“You talked a lot about the Azerbaijan-Armenia settlement. To my surprise, all this was perceived normally. This shows that a lot of work had already been done before. Yesterday we discussed global and regional issues. There was also unanimity on many things,” Aleksandr Lukashenko added.

The president emphasized that the CIS has some of the most powerful and resource-rich states among its members. “Therefore, this can be a powerful and effective regional association if we put in significant efforts,” he remarked.

BelTA reported earlier that in his speech at the summit, Aleksandr Lukashenko suggested coming up with more effective ways of using the regional integration potential. “The common goal is clear. We need a strong union of powerful, economically self-sufficient sovereign states. We are constantly talking about equal conditions and respect for national interests. A lot has already been done, but we still have a lot to strive for,” the head of state said.