US, Belarus’ opposition to launch strategic dialogue on December 6

November 27, Pozirk. The strategic dialogue between the United States and the Belarusian pro-democracy forces starts on December 6.

Belarusian opposition leader Śviatłana Cichanoŭskaja, leading members of the opposition, civil society, independent media, trade unions and youth organizations will participate in the two-day event in Washington, Cichanoŭskaja’s aide Franak Viačorka has told Pozirk.

On November 22, the opposition leader discussed preparations in a call with James O’Brien, the US assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs. Previously, the diplomat used to coordinate the US sanctions against the Belarusian authorities.

Washington announced its intention to launch a strategic dialogue with the Belarusian opposition and civil society in March, stressing the “continuing commitment to supporting the Belarusian people’s pursuit of a democratic, sovereign, and stable future for Belarus.” It aims to bring together US government agencies and Belarusian political leaders, civil society leaders and ordinary Belarusians.

Cichanoŭskaja’s upcoming visit to the US will feature a Congress hearing on Belarus on December 5 and a joint lecture with prominent history professor Timothy Snyder at Yale University on December 4.