MINSK, 23 April (BelTA) – The Belarusian delegation made a statement at the OSCE Permanent Council meeting in Vienna on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident, BelTA has learned.
“Chernobyl changed the fates of millions of people, deeply affecting Belarus as well. Radioactive contamination covered approximately one quarter of the country’s territory. More than two million citizens were exposed to radiation. For our country, Chernobyl became one of the most severe trials since the Second World War,” the Belarusian delegation said.
Belarus took the main blow from the aftermath of the accident. “We concentrated significant national resources on protecting people, rehabilitating affected regions, and advancing science,” the statement said. “We ensured the resettlement of citizens and created conditions for life, work, and education. Our country has accumulated unique experience in radiation medicine and territorial rehabilitation.”
“Over this period, Belarus has gone from being a recipient of aid to a responsible partner and expert. Today, Belarusian scientific developments in this field are in demand internationally, and the country readily shares its accumulated knowledge and practical experience.”
The Belarusian delegation emphasized: “We greatly value the international support that Belarus received in the first years after the accident. Chernobyl united countries back then, and we are deeply grateful for that support. Non-governmental organizations such as Ramapo for Children of Chernobyl from the United States and the Irish International Chernobyl Children Project, like many others, became for Belarusians a symbol of sincere human solidarity, brotherhood, and compassion.”
At the same time, Belarus observes with regret a decline in international attention to Chernobyl-related issues.
“Such an approach is misguided. The consequences of the accident are long-term in nature and require ongoing international cooperation. Belarus has consistently advanced Chernobyl issues within the framework of multilateral international cooperation. We made a substantial contribution to the adoption of key decisions within the UN system, including the establishment of the International Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day. Belarus is also convinced that the Chernobyl issue must not become an object of politicization. It concerns above all people, their health, and their future. It demands respect, responsibility, and cooperation,” the statement said.
Belarusian diplomats noted that today, amid growing global tensions, the lessons of Chernobyl take on particular significance.
It was also stated: “Chernobyl serves as a reminder of the high price of technological errors and the need to strengthen international cooperation in the name of security. Belarus has always been open to such cooperation.”
Belarus invites partners to joint work, scientific exchange, and practical projects. Our country is ready to share its experience and receive experts in the affected territories.
“Only collective efforts will allow us to preserve the memory of the events of 40 years ago and prevent their recurrence in the future,” the Belarusian delegation’s statement concluded.
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