Steinmeier expressed admiration for the feat of the Belarusian people. They discussed the importance of national identity in the fight for freedom. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya stressed that the language, history, interest in culture and the white-red-white flag are what strengthen the protest.
Tsikhanouskaya said that Lukashenko will leave one way or another, but this must happen as soon as possible. And she recalled how important it is for Germany to support the expansion of sanctions against the accomplices of the regime.
At the meeting, they also discussed a vaccine to protect against coronavirus and Germany's support in the form of vaccine supplies for doctors in Belarus who are forced to work under challenging conditions.
Tsikhanouskaya and Steinmeier also discussed the OSCE's participation. The new Secretary-General Helga Schmid could play an important role in organizing the negotiations on the new elections. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya stressed that Belarusians are fighting not only for new elections but also for humanity, independence and self-respect.
