KYIV, 25 February (BelTA) – Belarus and Ukraine are entering a new stage in their strategic partnership. The statement was made at a meeting between Presidents of the two countries Alexander Lukashenko and Viktor Yanukovych on 25 February.

Alexander Lukashenko recalled his last meeting with Viktor Yanukovych in Minsk. “We discussed a lot then. And we have been able to implement all the agreements we have reached,” the Belarusian leader stressed. “We find it very important that there are policy-makers in Ukraine who stand ready to work hard towards the progress of Ukraine,” Alexander Lukashenko emphasized. “We need no divisions in the East, West or South,” the President of Belarus added.

Viktor Yanukovych, on his part, noted that the first strategic steps were made during the last meeting, and confirmed that the bilateral action plan has been in progress throughout these years. “Our relations have entered a new phase and I am ready to consider jointly all strategic cooperation areas, work together with you for the benefit of the economies and people of the two countries,” the President of Ukraine said.