А. Lukashenko receives credentials from ambassadors of nine states

The President had a conversation on justice in cooperation, respect for sovereignty and new projects with the ambassadors, who are just starting their mission in our country. They are representatives of 9 countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, India, Indonesia, Lebanon, Malaysia, Mongolia, Tunisia, South Africa. Such a meeting is a good opportunity to take an objective look at the bilateral relations, assess their quality and determine the way forward. The diplomats' mission starts at a time of important transformations in our country. As Alexander Lukashenko emphasized, Belarus is ready to build friendly relations with those who really respect our sovereignty and independence.

A new pool of diplomats has arrived in Minsk. Many of them used to work in the countries, where there were strict coveted restrictions, so it would certainly be easier for them in our country. They are starting their work at an interesting time. Our country has a series of changes ahead: a new Constitution, a referendum. They will see everything with their own eyes.

This is not an easy period for our country, which is defending its sovereignty, working under sanctions and international pressure. We are open to cooperation with all states that are interested in this. And there is one prerequisite for this - mutual respect.

We certainly do not need conflicts, we have enough problems, the world is gripped by a new wave of pandemics, there is fierce competition. On the contrary, we should act together. But, obviously, this format is not suitable for everyone. We understand that we can survive without some of them. So we'll build a partnership with those who make steps towards us.

The President told how relations between the countries will be built in the future. The President spoke about each state, whose representative was present in the hall today. It is always a very important moment for diplomats to understand how cooperation will be built in the future.

Azerbaijan is our strategic partner. Relations strengthened every year thanks to the personal friendship of the heads of states. We managed to convert political interaction into mutually beneficial projects.

The current international situation increases the importance of cooperation with the countries of the far arc. The head of state emphasized Malaysia's great breakthrough in development over the recent decade. The transformation experience will not be superfluous. In addition, it is important for us to raise the bar in trade and investment cooperation.

Belarus strengthens its cooperation with the CIS, Asia and Africa. There is great interest in cooperation in various areas with the Republic of Lebanon as well. We consider Tunisia a promising partner in North Africa. And we can offer South Africa scientific research and educational services.