The second round of the Strategic Dialogue between the United States government and the democratic forces of Belarus took place in Vilnius. The meeting was chaired by the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Christopher Smith, and the Head of Belarus’ United Transitional Cabinet, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. Representatives of Belarusian democratic institutions, civil society, human rights organizations, and media outlets also attended the meeting.
The discussions and arrangements centered around:
-
Political prisoners:
The US reaffirmed its stance that all political prisoners must be released unconditionally. Discussions covered expanding support for their families, rehabilitation programs, and psychological assistance for those released.
-
Civil society and media:
Financial support for independent media and human rights defenders in exile will continue. Assistance will also be extended to Belarusian businesses operating abroad.
-
Accountability for the regime’s crimes:
The US stated its support for international investigations, including collection of evidence and preparation of trials addressing crimes against humanity.
-
National identity:
Belarusian cultural initiatives will receive aid through programs for language preservation, literary translation, cultural events, and educational projects.
-
Exchanges:
Over 100 Belarusians participated in educational and professional exchanges with the US in the past year. The number of participants is set to increase in 2025, with a focus on young leaders, educators, and media representatives.
-
Sanctions:
Existing sanctions will be strengthened, with new measures targeting individuals and companies supporting the regime and involved in the war against Ukraine, including suppliers for Russia’s defense industry.
-
2025 sham election:
The parties agreed that a free election is impossible given the current situation in Belarus and the campaign scheduled for January 2025 cannot be recognized as fair or legitimate.
The meeting emphasized the need to deepen the partnership between the United States and the democratic forces of Belarus. Dedicated working groups will be established to ensure that the agreed initiatives are implemented.
