Programme of coordinated foreign policy actions derives from national interests of Belarus, Russia

The programme of coordinated foreign policy actions for the Union State member-nations for 2008-2009 is based on national interests of Belarus and Russia, Foreign Minister of Belarus Sergei Martynov said in Minsk on January 30 after a joint session of the boards of the Belarusian and Russian Ministries of Foreign Affairs. The programme has no narrow geographic focus, stressed Sergei Martynov. In his words, the document determines coordination of the two countries’ positions in many foreign policy vectors, including European. “Approved by today’s session, the programme reflects the high level of coherence and coordination of our foreign policy views,” said the Minister. In turn, Foreign Minister of Russia Sergei Lavrov noted, the Russian side is fully satisfied with the foreign policy cooperation with Belarus. The cooperation is fully consolidated with regard to all issues on the European and global agendas. “We intend to continue paying special attention to this area of the Union State construction,” noted the Minister. “Our goal is to ensure maximum favourable external conditions for the economic and social welfare and security of citizens of our states. I am convinced the forthcoming session of the Supreme State Council will back up all the avenues of cooperation determined by the document, which was signed today,” concluded the official. On January 30 in Minsk the Foreign Ministers of Belarus and Russia signed a programme of coordinated foreign policy actions for the Union State member-nations for 2008-2009 as well as the plan for this year’s consultations between Belarusian and Russian Ministries of Foreign Affairs. Besides, the sides discussed collaboration in the fight against new threats and challenges as well as prospects of expanding cooperation within the framework of international organisations.