Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said that relations with the United States are currently of greater interest to him than Belarus's work at the United Nations, signalling optimism about the trajectory of contacts between Minsk and Washington.
Speaking during a meeting with Belarus's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Valentin Rybakov, Lukashenko said the UN remained an important organisation but acknowledged that improving ties with the United States had become his immediate focus.
"The United Nations is a powerful organisation, and of course our interests are represented there. But I will not hide the fact that I am currently more interested in Belarusian-American relations," he said, according to SB News.
Lukashenko said Rybakov was maintaining close contact with US Special Envary John Cole and praised the envoy, saying he trusted him. He added that he personally reviewed every document submitted by Rybakov and believed he understood the broader intentions of the US leadership.
Despite cautioning against "embellishing" Washington's position, Lukashenko said the current state of bilateral relations, as well as their momentum and future prospects, appeared positive.
"The current situation in our relations, especially the dynamics and prospects, is not bad," he said.
The Belarusian leader also reiterated that Minsk had consistently pursued an honest and transparent foreign policy, arguing that this approach had worked in the country's favour.
He asked Rybakov to provide his assessment of recent contacts with US officials and offer proposals on the next steps in bilateral engagement.
Turning to the United Nations, Lukashenko said Belarus remained ready to support UN Secretary-General António Guterres if assistance was needed, noting that he maintained friendly relations with the UN chief.
By Aghakazim Guliyev
