2000 press releases

Charge d'Affaires of U.S. Mission to OSCE on Belarus (October 12, 2000)

Thank you, Madame Chairperson. A few remarks on the upcoming elections in Belarus.

The United States believes the OSCE made the right decision not to observe elections in Belarus based on the Belarusian Government's failure to meet the minimum criteria established by the OSCE Troika in May.

We look forward to receiving a single, frank report by OSCE field experts on the elections in Belarus that speaks to the Government's record.

We share the Chair's view as expressed in its letter dated October 6 to President Lukashenko that dialogue should continue after elections. However, we believe the onus should and will remain upon the Government to demonstrate its commitment to democracy and human rights improvements not only with promises, but with implementation.

Thank you.