Belarus joins Peace Council summit but sends foreign minister instead of Lukashenko
Belarus has confirmed its participation in the upcoming Peace Council summit, though not at the highest level. The event, scheduled for February 19 in Washington, will bring together global leaders to discuss conflict resolution strategies. Foreign Minister Maxim Ryzhenkov will attend in place of President Alexander Lukashenko, who cannot adjust his existing commitments.
The Peace Council held its first meeting last year, focusing heavily on the devastation in the Gaza Strip. While the group aims to address broader global conflicts, the initial session drew representatives from 40 nations, including Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Argentine President Javier Milei, and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Belarus received an invitation to the first leaders' gathering but faced logistical hurdles. The late arrival of the summit details clashed with the country's prearranged schedule. Additional complications arose from ongoing sanctions, particularly the EU's closure of airspace, which restricted travel options.
President Lukashenko would have attended if circumstances allowed. Officials stated that Belarus shares the U.S. president's and the Peace Council's goal of resolving disputes through diplomatic means. However, pressing domestic matters that could not be delayed required Lukashenko to remain in Minsk.
Foreign Minister Ryzhenkov will now represent Belarus at the Washington summit. The delegation will engage in discussions on peaceful conflict resolution strategies while navigating the travel constraints imposed by international sanctions. The outcome of the meeting may influence future diplomatic efforts involving Minsk.
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