US extended easing of sanctions against two Belneftekhim enterprises

The United States Treasury Department once again extended the decision to ease sanctions against two Belarusian enterprises of Belneftekhim Concern, Lakokraska OAO and Polotsk Steklovolokno OAO.

As informed by the official website of the United States Treasury Department, the decision has been extended still May 31, 2010.

In this period assets of Lakokraska OAO, Polotsk Steklovolokno OAO remain frozen pursuant to Executive Order 13405. US citizens are banned to buy products, services and technologies though these two enterprises from other economic entities on the list (the list of Belneftekhim subsidiaries, against which sanctions are in force at the moment”, BelaPAN informs.

We remind that in November 2007 the US imposed economic sanctions against Belneftekhim Concern related to human rights violation in Belarus.

In March 2008, after authorities of Belarus refused to release former presidential candidate Alyaksandr Kazulin (who was then the last political prisoner recognized by the world community), the US imposed sanctions against all the enterprises of Belneftekhim Concern. Minsk and Washington recalled their ambassadors for consultations. Till now the staff of the both embassies is shortened to a minimum.

On September 5, 2008 the United States Treasury Department eased the sanctions for half a year against Lakokraska OAO and Polotsk Steklovolokno OAO. In February 2009 this decision was extended till July 1, and then till November 2009.