BELARUS NEWS AND ANALYSIS

DATE:

22/12/2006

As Minsk Slams Brussels For "Short-Sightedness"

Belarusian Foreign Ministry spokesman Andrey Papou said on December 21 that the EU's move to suspend the GSP tariff benefits for Belarus is marked by political "short-sightedness," Belapan reported. "What catches the eye is that the EU's decision is completely inconsistent with its declared objective to provide support to the Belarusian people," Papou asserted. "The EU's decision will not become a serious challenge for Belarus's economy and citizens," he added. Papou urged the EU to "have a sober assessment of the situation in Belarus, recognize its successful social and economic development, and the country's big contribution to the strengthening of security and stability in Europe." JM

Source:

http://www.rferl.org/newsline/2006/12/3-cee/cee-221206.asp