BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 2. Lithuanian Foreign
Minister Kęstutis Budrys meets today with Belarusian democratic
opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and extends
congratulations on the recent release of her husband, Siarhei
Tsikhanouski, who was freed at the end of June, Trend reports.
The meeting focuses on the release of 14 political prisoners who
were previously detained by Belarusian authorities. Tsikhanouskaya
and Tsikhanouski thank Lithuania for its principled stance and
sustained advocacy, which they say has contributed to international
pressure and recent progress.
“A free, democratic, and human rights–respecting Belarus is a
core national interest for Lithuania,” says Minister Budrys. He
reaffirms Lithuania’s steadfast support for the Belarusian people
and their pursuit of democratic change.
Budrys emphasized that while the release of Syarhei Tsikhanouski
marks a hopeful development, the broader fight for the
unconditional release of all political prisoners must continue.
According to Belarusian human rights defenders, more than 1,170
individuals remain imprisoned for political reasons, though the
real number may be significantly higher.
He also highlighted the importance of ensuring the safety and
security of Belarusian democratic forces and their families
currently in Lithuania. “As long as Belarus is governed by an
illegitimate regime, we must protect those who seek refuge and
stand for democratic values,” Budrys notes.
Lithuania calls on the international community to maintain and
strengthen sanctions and diplomatic pressure until all political
prisoners are freed and meaningful democratic reforms begin.
Lithuania remains committed to supporting the Belarusian people and
to offering a haven to those persecuted for their beliefs.