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Opposition leaders eager to discuss EU's new strategy toward Belarus with top government officials

The National Committee of the United Pro-democracy Forces has called for a discussion of the European Union's new strategy toward Belarus with top government officials.

In particular, the leaders of the united opposition forces have called on Prime Minister Sergei Sidorsky and Gennady Nevyglas, head of the Presidential Administration, to hold a joint discussion focusing on the 25-nation bloc's offer of cooperation.

Brussels said last week that it would offer more aid and trade to Minsk if it made progress on democracy and human rights. The offer got a cold reaction from Minsk.

Commenting on the proposed strategy, United Civic Party leader Anatoly Lebedko said that it is intended both for the government and all citizens of Belarus. "It concerns almost everyone. And this means that a collective decision should be made. Monopoly or taboo are not acceptable here," the politician said. "A public nationwide discussion on television and in newspapers is needed. This is indeed a barely visible path that we can start moving down toward the direction opposite to a split, confrontation and hostility."

The National Committee plans to launch a campaign to inform the public about the EU's offer. "People should be entitled to choice. Ungarbled and reliable information will help them make a conscious choice," Mr. Lebedko noted. //BelaPAN