Latvia as a neighbouring country of Belarus fully supports the deep desire of Belarusian people to live in an independent, free and democratic Belarus governed by the rule of law.
Latvia and Belarus are both members of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe. Together with other members of the organisation we have set standards for free and democratic elections.
I urge the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and other relevant international organisations in consultation with all stakeholders to investigate the recent elections, including campaigning, election procedure, determination of voting results and the events that followed to establish whether these elections were held according to standards for free and democratic elections and give their assessment of the election process.
I urge Belarusian authorities to release all those who were arrested during the elections and to ensure all human and civil rights and freedoms, including freedom of speech, freedom of press, freedom of assembly and association.
Latvia believes that closer cooperation between European Union (EU) and Belarus is in our common interest. Belarus is an EU Eastern Partnership country. This partnership is aimed at fostering stability, economic growth and mutual trust throughout the region. This partnership is based on clear principles. We hope that these principles will be observed.