European People's Party: Belarusian authorities should release political prisoners

A dialogue between the EU and Minsk is possible only after political prisoners are released and free elections are carried out.

The end of the persecution of journalists, the freeing of political prisoners, the registration of public associations and political parties, the holding of free and fair elections and the admission of the opposition to the state media can contribute to a dialogue and compromise between Belarus and the European Union, says the declaration of the European People's Party and leaders of the EaP states, following the meeting on May 21.

As for relations between the EU and Belarus, authors of the declaration propose to involve representatives of Belarusian democratic organisations and the political opposition in a dialogue, BelaPAN news agency reports.

They also called on the EU to invite non-association partner countries – Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus, to engage in sectorial cooperation following a model of ENP Plus tools, including prospects for the conclusion of sectorial agreements that would facilitate the integration of these countries with the EU.

The declaration welcomes the progress achieved in the Visa Facilitation and Readmission Agreement with Belarus and appreciates the support the EU and the member states have conveyed to Belarusian civil society and the solidarity with those who are exposed to political persecution in Belarus for their democratic beliefs.