EU–BELARUS CONSULTATIVE GROUP MEETING
On March 6, a meeting of the Consultative Group between the EU and the Belarusian democratic forces and civil society took place in Brussels. The meeting aimed to coordinate support for Belarusian democratic forces and civil society and discuss the future of a democratic Belarus. Participants from the Belarusian side included representatives of the United Transitional Cabinet, the Coordination Council, and civil society.
FREEDOM DAY PREPARATIONS
On March 25, Belarusians mark Freedom Day. To coordinate preparation efforts, the Organizing Committee was established last week for the celebrations, with Pavel Seviarynets elected as its Chair. Belarusians will organize events and gatherings around the world.
“8+100” FORUM IN BRUSSELS
On March 4, the “8+100” Forum was held in Brussels – a platform for cooperation between European political parties and the democratic forces of Belarus. The event was organized by the European Parliament in partnership with Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office. Participants discussed the EU policy toward Belarus and the country’s role in the future architecture of Euro-Atlantic security.
MEETING WITH EUROPEAN COMMISSIONER MARTA KOS
On March 6, the European Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, met in Brussels with Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, joined by recently released political prisoners Maryia Kalesnikava and Viktar Babaryka. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya thanked Commissioner Kos for the EU’s significant support for the Belarusian cause, including independent media, human rights defenders, civil society, and youth. Marta Kos confirmed that the European Union will continue supporting Belarusians and their initiatives.
MEETING WITH EU HIGH REPRESENTATIVE KAJA KALLAS
Also in Brussels on March 6, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, received a delegation of the democratic forces of Belarus led by Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. The meeting also included the Deputy Head of the United Transitional Cabinet, Pavel Latushka, as well as recently released political prisoners Maria Kalesnikava and Viktar Babaryka. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya emphasized that the democratic movement remains united: “We may have different views and tactical approaches, but we share the same values and one goal – a free, democratic, and European Belarus”.
MEETINGS WITH EUROPEAN TECH COMPANIES AND MAJOR BUSINESSES
On March 5, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with leaders of major European tech companies and businesses as part of her visit to Brussels. She was accompanied by her Diplomatic Advisor, Dzianis Kuchynski, and Pavel Liber, who has launched several innovative projects for the Belarusian community. The meeting was organized by MEP Eva Maydell. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya called on international corporations to become more involved in defending democracy.
MEETING WITH EUROPEAN COMMISSIONER ANDRIUS KUBILIUS
On March 5, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with the European Commissioner for Defense, Andrius Kubilius, in Brussels. The discussion focused on the current military and political situation, the humanitarian track for the release of political prisoners led by the United States, and the place of Belarus in the future European security architecture.
Ms. Tsikhanouskaya proposed that the European Union approach Belarus with long-term strategic interests in mind, ensuring that Belarus has a role in the EU’s future security strategy.
MEETING WITH EUROPEAN COMMISSION VICE-PRESIDENT RAFFAELE FITTO
On March 5, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met in Brussels with the Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms of the European Commission, Raffaele Fitto. She stressed that preparations for post-transition Belarus must begin now. When democratic change comes, Belarus will need EU assistance for reforms and reconstruction. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya proposed starting work with the European Commission on identifying potential areas and projects for cooperation.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY ADDRESS
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya addressed Belarusian women on the occasion of International Women’s Day: “Belarusian women have repeatedly shown that they will not stay silent. You have taken to the streets, defended each other, and refused to be broken. Even when attempts were made to intimidate you, you chose humanity – and, most importantly, the strong woman within yourself”.
DEATH OF POLITICAL PRISONER ALENA PANKOVA
It was reported on March 5 that political prisoner Alena Pankova had died. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya released a statement: “It is heartbreaking to learn about the death of Alena Pankova. She was only 54. Alena was convicted for participating in protests and was serving a sentence of restricted freedom. I express my sincere condolences to Alena’s family and loved ones, and especially to her 18-year-old son. I wish you strength during this difficult time”.
MEDIA
Tages Anzeiger (Switzerland), ABC (Australia), Belsat (Belarus), Belsat (Belarus), Nasha Niva (Belarus), AP News (International), AFP (International), SITA (Slovakia).
