G7 foreign ministers demand freedom for Belarusian political prisoners

April 20, Pozirk. Belarus is mentioned in one of the three communiqués issued by G7 foreign ministers after their April 19 meeting in Capri, Italy.

In the document titled “Steadfast Support to Ukraine” the ministers condemned officials in Minsk for their complicity in Russia’s war against the Eastern European nation.

They also expressed their “continued concern over the regime’s continuing repression of independent media, civil society, and of opposition and citizens that peacefully express their views.”

“We also condemn the ill-treatment of political prisoners and ask for their immediate and unconditional release,” the document reads.

It mentions Belarus again in connection with the deployment of nuclear weapons to its territory, a move called by the diplomats part of “Russia’s irresponsible nuclear rhetoric and its posture of strategic intimidation.” They warned that any use of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons by Russia would have serious consequences.

The ministers also issued the communiqués “Situation in the Middle East” and “Addressing Global Challenges, Fostering Partnerships.”

Belarusian opposition leader Śviatłana Cichanoŭskaja attended the meeting.

She declared the goal of bringing Belarus back on the international agenda, so that the international community differentiate between the regime and the citizens and does not isolate ordinary Belarusians while isolating Alaksandar Łukašenka.

The opposition leader met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné, British Foreign Secretary David Cameron, and Josep Borrell, high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy.

As is tradition, G7 foreign ministers met ahead of the group’s summit. This year, it will take place on June 13–15 in the Italian city of Brindisi.

In 2024, G7 is chaired by Italy. Its other members are Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

Also read: Opposition leader discusses Belarus with G7 foreign ministers