British News Agency

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov spoke at a joint press conference following his meeting with Belarusian Foreign Minister Maxim Ryzhenkov in Minsk.

Lavrov noted that 30 years have passed since the integration processes between Russia and Belarus, describing relations as “truly comradely and open”.

“This year we are celebrating 30 years of integration processes between Russia and Belarus and our close allied cooperation in foreign policy. This is truly a comradely and open conversation. We have no secrets between us.”

Lavrov emphasized that the two countries share common positions and will continue cooperation in foreign policy:

“We share a common position. We are allies and we adhere to our allied obligations.”

He also highlighted strengthening integration within the Union State and the development of positions on the international stage.

The statement said coordination will be strengthened within the UN, CIS, Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), SCO, BRICS and CSTO.

Lavrov also commented on the Ukraine crisis, criticizing the West and Europe, and said dialogue with the US continues.

“We hope the Ukraine issue will not be removed from the US agenda.”