Statement by Spokesperson of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus R.Varankou on the issue of Lithuanian cargo trucks in Belarus

Lithuanian media are vying to quote the statement by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Lithuania, Inga Ruginienė, regarding negotiations with Belarus over the return of Lithuanian cargo vehicles currently located on our territory.

Indeed, the relevant appeal, if it can be called an official appeal to Minsk, has been sent to the leadership of the Lida borderguard detachment.

In this regard, we recall that the decision to close the border was taken solely by the Lithuanian side, unilaterally.

Belarus is not responsible for the negative consequences of this decision, which have turned out to be multifaceted – from problems with cargo transport to significant damage caused not only to Belarusian citizens and businesses, but also to Lithuania itself and to citizens of third countries, including EU member states.

Moreover, we urge the Lithuanian authorities to revoke their decision and restore the normal operation of border crossings for people, vehicles and cargo. This simple and reasonable step by Vilnius is being awaited with great anticipation by thousands of citizens of both countries and of the European Union as a whole. They need a solution that is sustainable and predictable.

Any selective or partial measures are out of the question.

Acting in the interests of its citizens, Belarus remains ready at any time for dialogue aimed at resolving the existing issues concerning the functioning of border crossing points along the state border.