Synopsis
On March 14, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko stated that the integration between Belarus and Russia must be irreversible. He emphasized this historic mission while addressing the Russian Federation Council. Lukashenko also discussed the development of drone manufacturing in Belarus and the potential for a unified parliament with Russia.Key Takeaways
- The integration process between Belarus and Russia is deemed irreversible by Lukashenko.
- Lukashenko views the integration as a historic mission.
- A single parliament could be formed if both countries agree.
- Belarus becoming part of Russia is unlikely soon.
- Support for a drone production facility in Belarus was expressed.
Moscow, March 14 (NationPress) The integration effort between Belarus and Russia must be made irreversible, emphasized visiting Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Friday.
Lukashenko referred to the integration as a historic mission that will be fulfilled with dignity during his speech to the Russian Federation Council, which is the upper chamber of parliament.
He pointed out the possibility of establishing a unified parliament for both nations, should both countries be willing.
While addressing the potential for Belarus to integrate into Russia, Lukashenko remarked that such a scenario is unlikely to occur in the near future.
“We need to move forward calmly, step by step ... just as we are currently doing,” he stated, according to Xinhua news agency.
On Thursday, Lukashenko had a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, where they explored bilateral relations and the future of integration within the Union State, among other topics.
Previously, Lukashenko expressed his support for the establishment of a plant in Belarus to manufacture Russian drones.
During a visit to the BelExpo National Exhibition Centre last week, where Russian UAVs intended for terrain monitoring, agriculture, and cargo were showcased, Lukashenko commended Russian experts for their accomplishments in drone development and production.
The Belarusian leader acknowledged that Russia has shown strong results in the advancement and manufacturing of UAVs.
At the exhibition, Maxim Oreshkin, the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office of Russia, indicated that the Russian side is suggesting Belarus establish a facility capable of producing up to 100,000 drones annually.
In February, the Belarusian Central Election Commission officially declared Lukashenko as the winner of the latest presidential elections, securing 86.82 percent of the votes.
The presidential elections took place in Belarus on January 26, with a turnout of 85.69 percent.
According to Belarusian law, a presidential candidate who garners over 50 percent of the votes is deemed the winner.
Lukashenko first assumed the presidency of Belarus in 1994 and has been re-elected in 2001, 2006, 2010, 2015, and 2020.
