“We are actively progressing the economy on import substitution. President (Vladimir) Putin and I practically begin any meeting with this. The economy is the basis. If everything goes well in our economy, we will solve all other problems,” Lukashenko said.

Speaking on the same issue, Lavrov criticized the West’s ideas of controlling international organizations according to its interests.

“Coordinating our actions in the field of human rights of the UN Human Rights Council and other mechanisms is especially important. The Westerners are trying to politicize discussions that should be based on the existing rules of international humanitarian law,” the foreign minister stated.

Lavrov also warned about NATO’s steps to encircle Russia and the importance of maintaining active military relations with Belarus.

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