President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko received letters of credence from ambassadors of foreign countries, a BELTA correspondent reports.
Diplomats from the Vatican, Vietnam, Mali, the Order of Malta, Niger, Slovakia, Sudan, and Ethiopia presented their letters of credence to the head of the Belarusian state.
Addressing the diplomats, the President assured that Belarus always welcomes those who are focused on strengthening bridges of friendship, respect the people and sovereignty of Belarus.
He stressed that representatives of 130 nationalities and 25 confessions live in Belarus in peace and harmony: "Thanks to the public unity policy pursued and deep traditions, we have no conflicts on ethnic or religious grounds. We cherish and are proud of this."
The President expects that the diplomats will make every effort to impart positive dynamics to bilateral relations with Belarus.
"We will always respond - within 24 hours for sure - to all your requests and proposals," said the Belarusian leader. - "Make yourselves at home here. And if anyone wants to stay here after their service, just say so, you are most welcome."
Alexander Lukashenko noted that the Ambassador of Slovakia, Jozef Migash, had previously headed this country's diplomatic mission in Belarus: "He knows that everything will be fine in Belarus. And he can do a lot for his country as well."
The head of state wished the diplomats success and good health. "Belarus is a country where you will not lose your health, but gain it," the President remarked.
"We await your initiatives, projects of any complexity and scale. Be assured that the working conditions will be comfortable and favourable. Do not sit in your offices, study the country, visit enterprises, appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the historical and cultural heritage, the richness of nature, the wisdom of our people, and the breadth of Belarusian hospitality. There are no forbidden zones for you," the Belarusian leader assured.
Alexander Lukashenko also traditionally commented on cooperation with each of the countries represented by the ambassadors.
Slovakia
The President noted that the mission to develop relations between Slovakia and Belarus has been entrusted to his old acquaintance and experienced statesman Jozef Migash.
"We highly appreciate the independent course that Bratislava pursues. It pursues it with courage and dignity, despite external pressure and threats. We discussed this with Prime Minister Robert Fico in Beijing," the head of state recalled.
The President stated that Robert Fico is again expected in Belarus: "In a friendly atmosphere, we will discuss all issues, show memorable places associated with the heroic history of the Second World War. I am sure we can do a lot for our countries."
Vietnam
Alexander Lukashenko named Vietnam one of Belarus's key partners in the Asian region, where "the engine of global development is gaining momentum."
"Through joint efforts, we have elevated the traditionally friendly Belarusian-Vietnamese ties to the level of strategic interaction," said the Belarusian leader.
The head of state added that Belarus is firmly committed to implementing all agreements reached with the leadership of Vietnam. "Mr. Ambassador, we hope to see practical results of our joint and fruitful work in the near future," Alexander Lukashenko addressed the diplomat from Vietnam.
Vatican
Speaking about the relations between Belarus and the Vatican, the President emphasized that they are based on mutual respect, dialogue, and traditional values, as well as on the closeness or coincidence of approaches to many international issues.
"We highly appreciate the consistent, sincere position of the Vatican against sanctions," stated Alexander Lukashenko. "I see significant potential for uniting our efforts for the sake of peace in Europe and on the planet."
The Belarusian leader assured that Belarus is ready to discuss any global and bilateral issues with the new representative of the Pontiff in Belarus.
Order of Malta
According to the President, Belarus is interested in expanding cooperation with the Order of Malta on humanitarian projects, including those related to the development of healthcare and social protection systems.
"We appreciate the support previously provided and sincerely hope that the arrival of an ambassador in Minsk, who has already worked in this capacity in our country, will give an impetus to cooperation," said Alexander Lukashenko.
Ethiopia
The Head of the Belarusian State called Ethiopia a long-standing and reliable partner of Belarus in Eastern Africa: "We respectfully observe the independent foreign policy course of our Ethiopian friends, we understand and share your principled position on key issues of the international agenda."
The President expressed his confidence in the prompt implementation of the agreements on intensifying cooperation reached with the Prime Minister of Ethiopia on the BRICS platform in Kazan.
"This is personally entrusted to the Ministers of Foreign Affairs. We need to adopt a roadmap and move forward in all areas - from the technical equipping of agriculture to the training of Ethiopian students in Belarusian universities," stated Alexander Lukashenko.
Mali
Speaking about Mali, the President noted that this country is going through a new period in its history. Mali is strengthening its sovereignty and carrying out serious transformations important for improving the standard and quality of life of its population, he emphasized.
"Belarus is open for cooperation. Our relations need a solid trade and economic foundation. Moreover, we already have experience working with African countries," said Alexander Lukashenko.
Niger
Alexander Lukashenko assured that Belarus is interested in developing friendly and mutually beneficial ties with Niger. The Head of State stressed that this country plays a key role in the Sahel region of Africa, particularly in the areas of security and combating terrorism.
"We are ready to lend a helping hand in solving the tasks facing you in matters of defense, food security, industrialization of various sectors of the economy, personnel training, and public healthcare. We also have experience," he said.
Sudan
The Belarusian leader called Sudan one of Belarus's long-standing and trusted partners on the African continent: "Our products, especially agricultural machinery, are widely known in your country."
The President wished the people of friendly Sudan peace and stability and expressed confidence that this will help unlock the significant potential for cooperation in industry, agriculture, energy, education, and healthcare.