German diplomat says Belarus could play major role in Europe’s security

July 4, BPN. The outgoing German envoy to Belarus has said the country could play an important role in European security and global peace, pointing out its location in the middle of Europe.

In an interview released by the embassy today, Manfred Huterer said the German-Belarusian relationship hit rock bottom amid mass reprisals in Belarus and the government’s role in the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Still, the German diplomatic presence in the country allowed diplomats to prevent “irreversible troubles” for bilateral ties, he added.

The ambassador emphasized that Berlin will not forget Belarusian political prisoners, who peacefully stood up for their rights and universal values.

He called for reconciliation and dialogue between the government and civil society, leading to free and fair elections.

He also noted that the European Union decided not to send new ambassadors to Minsk, and that Berlin will stick to this policy. EU member states will be represented by chargés d’affaires instead.

Huterer headed the embassy in Minsk since September 2019. His departure was announced last week.