Lukashenko heading to Beijing for talks with Xi Jinping
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko is set to visit Beijing for talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, according to Belarusian state media. This will be Lukashenkos second trip to China this year, emphasizing his close alliance with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The visit is described as a “working visit” and will focus on discussions related to trade, economic cooperation, investment, and international collaboration. Lukashenkos press service states that negotiations between the two leaders will take place in Beijing. The news of Lukashenkos upcoming visit comes after his welcome in China earlier this year, where he received a gun salute and military honors.
Belarus has been a long-standing ally of Russia, and Lukashenko has supported Moscows invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 by allowing Russian forces to use Belarusian territory as a launchpad for the war. Meanwhile, China has maintained close ties with Russia and refrained from condemning its actions in Ukraine. However, Beijing has recently called for peace in the conflict, despite its ongoing duration. After their first meeting earlier this year, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the unbreakable friendship between China and Belarus and expressed the need for enhanced political trust and mutual support.
The ongoing war in Ukraine, now in its 22nd month, has yet to reach a resolution, as neither side seems willing to compromise or engage in negotiations. Lukashenko and Xi previously urged the soonest possible peace deal for Ukraine, reflecting their shared desire for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. However, with the stalemate continuing, the prospects for a resolution remain uncertain.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenkos visit to China highlights the close ties between the two countries, emphasizing their commitment to trade, economic cooperation, and international collaboration. This trip reinforces Lukashenkos alignment with Russian President Vladimir Putins policies and serves as a reminder of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which both China and Belarus have expressed concerns about. While the desired peace deal for Ukraine has yet to materialize, Lukashenkos upcoming talks with Xi Jinping indicate the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic relationships in a tumultuous global landscape. Source=Reuter
