Łukašenka wants better communication channels with Switzerland under new president

December 8, BPN. Alaksandr Łukašenka expects “a significant strengthening of communication channels between Minsk and Bern in a number of areas” during Alain Berset’s upcoming term as the president of the Swiss Confederation.

“Belarus is always interested in developing bilateral relations and pragmatic cooperation with neutral Switzerland on the principles of mutual respect, without artificial restrictions and threats,” Łukašenka’s letter to Berset reads.

“You have been entrusted with the important mission of becoming the head of your country at a very difficult and controversial time. I hope you will cope with it with dignity,” it reads.

“Unfortunately,” Łukašenka continued, “today most European politicians, led by false images of enemies in the East, do not have the courage to make decisions and bear responsibility for them. Western elites have defended the ideas of liberalism for so long, admiring their own easy victory, that they seem to have completely lost touch with reality. However, the world is increasingly convinced of the need for a real constructive dialogue rather than confrontation.”

Switzerland was virtually the only western nation whose new ambassador, despite support of sanctions, arrived in Minsk and presented the copies of his credentials to the foreign minister, and the originals to Łukašenka. Shortly after the copies were presented, Belarus freed Natallia Hersche, a Swiss national of Belarusian origin convicted over protests.

The president of Switzerland is elected for one year. Federal Councillor Alain Berset, 50, held this position in 2018, and has been elected for 2023.