Self -proclaimed President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, on the eve of the elections appointed on January 26, plans to make another official visit to China. This step is regarded as an attempt to strengthen connections with Beijing to support their mode. About it reports the Center for Combating Misinformation.
The visit to China will be the third in the last three years. Against the background of international isolation of Belarus, caused by dependence on Russia, Lukashenko seeks to diversify international cooperation. Analysts point out that closer cooperation with China can give Minsk more levers in negotiations with the Kremlin, which increases its impact on Belarus.
According to experts, the key topics of discussion during the visit may be Belarusian-Chinese infrastructure projects such as the Vali Kamen Industrial Park, the development of the pharmaceutical industry, mechanical engineering and even cooperation in the military-industrial complex.
Against the background of economic pressure from Russia, Minsk is looking for alternative sources of financial support. Energy dependence on the Russian Federation, the obligation on Russian loans, as well as the Kremlin's military presence in the territory of Belarus significantly limit the opportunities for Lukashenko maneuvers.
Lukashenko's visit to China on the eve of January 26 elections may be an attempt to demonstrate international support for political and economic isolation. China, known for its neutral position on the internal affairs of other countries, can become an important partner for Minsk if you can activate joint projects.