During her working visit to Latvia, the Belarusian leader met for the first time in Riga with the new Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baiba Braže. Ms. Braže assured Ms. Tsikhanouskaya of Latvia’s continued support for Belarus’ democratic forces in their work to make their country free and independent.
During the meeting, the parties discussed:
📌 The political situation in Belarus, including the regime’s crackdown on activists and representatives of the democratic forces.
📌 The recent release of several political prisoners in Belarus and the need for international support to achieve the release of all political prisoners.
📌 The role of the Belarusian regime in the weaponization of illegal migration. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya offered the democratic forces’ expertise to help expose the regime’s schemes.
📌 Latvia’s stance in condemning the Lukashenka regime for its support for Russian aggression in Ukraine and other crimes.
📌 Issues and problems related to the legalization of stay faced by Belarusians residing in Latvia.
Ms. Tsikhanouskaya urged Latvia not to restrict Belarusians’ mobility: “I am grateful to Latvia for its support. With your help, our voice is better heard on international platforms such as the UN, OSCE, and the Council of Europe. I hope this support will remain strong. At the same time, I urge you not to forget about Belarusians – and to distinguish between the regime and our people. Do not restrict their mobility, and support not only well-known independent media but also bloggers and enthusiasts promoting the Belarusian language and culture”.
04.07.2024. Ārlietu ministre Baiba Braže tiekas ar Baltkrievijas demokrātiskās kustības līderi Svjatlanu Cihanousku (Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya)
