- Meetings
Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament: Discussed the non-recognition of Lukashenka’s sham election, ongoing repression, and the EU’s role in supporting Belarus’ democratic forces.
Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission: Addressed the EU strategy vis-a-vis Belarus, including sanctions, non-recognition of the sham election, sovereignty threats, and the regime’s role in Russia’s war effort.
Andrius Kubilius, EU Commissioner for Defense and Space: Focused on regional security, Belarus’ militarization, and the regime’s arms supplies to Russia.
Mathias Diependaele, Minister-President of Flanders: Expressed gratitude for supporting the Mission of Democratic Belarus, independent media, and civil society. Discussed an additional €100,000 allocated for media support and strengthened partnerships.
Marta Kos, EU Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement: Highlighted €30 million in support for Belarusian civil society in 2025. Discussed mobility programs and resilience of democratic initiatives.
Oliver Röpke, President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC): Discussed the role of civil society in Belarus’ democratic transition and potential EESC support for Belarusian initiatives.
Delegation for Relations with Belarus: Met with leaders, including Małgorzata Gosiewska and Michał Kobosko, as well as rapporteurs on Belarus to address sanctions, political prisoners, and stronger ties with Belarus’ democratic forces.
Special envoys for Belarus: Discussed plans for 2025 and international coordination issues with ambassadors and envoys.
MEPs: Held talks with Helmut Brandstätter, Ondřej Kolář, David McAllister, Petras Auštrevičius, and others to safeguard EU support for Belarus.
- Attended events
Opening of the “Voices from Prison” exhibition: Shared stories of political prisoners, emphasizing international solidarity and action.
High-level conference on Belarus at the European Parliament.
Meeting with the Delegation for Relations with Belarus: Discussed the EU’s role in countering the Lukashenka regime and advancing Belarus’ European integration.
Musical evening: Participated in a cultural event featuring Yahor Zabelau and “Volny Chor”.
#FramedinBelarus exhibition: Highlighted Belarusian culture and its role in preserving national identity and unity.
Informal meetings: Spoke with diplomats, MEPs, and Belarusian activists during the Belarus Days in Brussels.
- Key topics discussed
Political prisoners:
Urged stronger EU pressure for their release and more international coordination to hold the regime accountable.
Sanctions and non-recognition:
Called for closing loopholes in sanctions and firmly rejecting Lukashenka’s sham election.
Regional security and Belarus’ role in the war:
Highlighted the regime’s complicity in Russian aggression and its threats to regional stability.
Support for civil society and media:
Discussed financial and logistical aid for independent media, NGOs, and grassroots initiatives.
Future democratic transition:
Presented plans for reforms, justice restoration, and European integration, highlighting the need for their early preparation.
European integration for Belarus:
Advocated for EU programs to maintain Belarus’ ties with Europe through mobility, scholarships, and cultural exchanges.
This visit reaffirmed the EU’s unwavering solidarity with Belarus and its commitment to supporting the democratic forces, civil society, and independent media. It strengthened Belarus’ position on the European agenda and enhanced international coordination for a future democratic transition.
