Belarus, China Vow to Strengthen Ties Amid Western Criticism

Background

Belarus and China affirmed their commitment to bolstering their ties during a meeting between Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Minsk.

The meeting took place amid heightened tensions between Belarus and the West following a forced landing of a Ryanair flight in Minsk and Lukashenko's subsequent crackdown on dissent, which drew strong condemnations from Western nations.

Lukashenko's Remarks

Support for China

Lukashenko expressed his staunch support for China, emphasizing that Belarus "fully backs China's stance on all matters."

He praised China's "independent policy" and its role as a "counterweight to the unipolar world."

Condemnation of Western Interference

Lukashenko condemned Western interference in Belarus's internal affairs, accusing Western countries of "double standards."

He claimed that the West was "trying to bully Belarus" and stifle its sovereignty.

Wang Yi's Remarks

Strategic Partnership

Wang Yi characterized the relationship between Belarus and China as a "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," emphasizing the depth of their cooperation.

He pledged China's unwavering support for Belarus's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

Condemnation of Western Criticism

Wang Yi also echoed Lukashenko's criticism of Western interference, calling it "unacceptable."

He asserted that China "firmly rejects any attempt to use human rights as a pretext to meddle in other countries' internal affairs."

Implications

The meeting between Lukashenko and Wang Yi underscores the strong alignment between Belarus and China.

It is likely to further strain Belarus's relations with the West, which has imposed sanctions and criticized Lukashenko's authoritarian rule.

The meeting also highlights China's willingness to support autocratic regimes, despite international condemnation, reinforcing concerns about its growing influence in the region.