Permanent Representative of Belarus to the UN Valentin Rybakov said that “long before the events in Ukraine, when sanctions were imposed against Belarus, because the West did not like the results of our presidential elections, one of the reasons was the alleged demand for sanctions by the people of Belarus”, explaining that “The case was presented as if restrictive measures would bring freedom to the people of Belarus: “Punishment is freedom, and punishment liberates.”

In his statement, he said: “We have heard similar statements before. It is true that instead of the word “punishment” the word “work” was used. Work liberates,” emphasizing that “we will never forget this phrase, which was written at the entrance to the concentration camps organized by the Nazis themselves during World War II. He stressed that “the time has come for those who impose unilateral restrictions to seriously think about their policies and show flexibility in modifying them. It’s not too late to make the right decision.”

“We agree with the call of the UN Secretary-General on the need to lift sanctions and reintegrate Belarusian food and fertilizer production into world markets. This will be an important step towards ensuring international food security,” Rybakov said, adding that “Belarus is ready to work with all stakeholders and consider any constructive proposals without any political bias.”

He stated that “Belarus will continue to do everything in its power to continue the dialogue initiated by its President to end the conflict in Ukraine as soon as possible, and is ready to contribute to ensuring global food security. We once again call on those who impose sanctions to stop using this subversive mechanism.”