Expert comments on cornerstone mission of Belarusian diplomacy

Belaruskali JSC is welcoming 6-15-year-old children from Donbass for health recuperation this autumn as part of a socially significant project initiated by the Aleksei Talai Foundation. Boys and girls from low-income families and orphanages, as well as those affected by military hostilities are coming to Belarus: over 1,000 in total. In his talk with Alfa Radio, political expert Aleksandr Shpakovsky speculated on why this is being done.

As noted by the expert, some unscrupulous Russian media – while defending Western interests and trying to pit the fraternal peoples of Belarus and Russia against each other – reproach Belarus for not taking part in hostilities in Ukraine. Meanwhile, the country’s role is different.

“The support of our ally includes such humanitarian actions as well. True, we are not at war, and our Constitution prohibits us from using the Armed Forces outside the country – unless for defence purposes. Nevertheless, our contribution involves medical and humanitarian aid, solidarity and rehabilitation of children. We are striving for a peaceful settlement of any conflicts, and this is a cornerstone mission of the Belarusian diplomacy since the beginning of the formation of our state. It was not for nothing that the CIS executive authorities were decided to be located in Minsk at the time. Recuperation of children from Donbass in Belarus is the fruit of efforts of a famous Belarusian Paralympic athlete and a man with a big heart, Aleksei Talai, and Belaruskali. Although this company has been sanctioned and is not allowed to fully trade potash fertilisers, it is implementing humanitarian projects and will continue to do so. I know for sure that there are further plans in this regard. Belarusians have brought humanitarian aid and will continue to bring it to Donbass. We are also assisting with medicines, implementing a range of other civil initiatives,” Mr. Shpakovsky said.

The expert added that there would be no humanitarian campaigns without the will of Belarus’ President who delves into all issues.

“Refugees from Ukraine come to us, and we continue to provide medical care services to Ukrainians. We have a special legislation aimed at residents of the affected regions of Donbass. In line with the document, these people are granted benefits on the territory of Belarus. We are striving to ensure a civilised peaceful settlement of this conflict, taking into account the interests of Russia," Mr. Shpakovsky stressed.