The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan urged the Belarusian government on Aug. 19 to end the violence against participants of Belarus’ peaceful protests which sparked after the allegedly rigged presidential election on Aug. 9.
Yoshida Tomoyuki, the ministry’s press secretary, condemned Belarusian law enforcers for arresting and torturing protesters. Instead, Tomoyuki encouraged the authorities to dialogue with the protesters.
“Japan is closely monitoring the situation with concern and urges the authorities of the Republic of Belarus to immediately cease acts of violence and arbitrary detention of participants of peaceful protests, as well as alleged ill-treatment of those who have been detained,” Tomoyuki said in a statement.
Large-scale protests have been continuing in Belarus since the day President Alexander Lukashenko claimed a landslide victory in the presidential election.
The protestors want Lukashenko to step down and a free election to take place to determine who will be the next president of Belarus after 26 years of authoritarian rule under Lukashenko.
During the ongoing protests, nearly 6,000 people were detained after clashes with the police.
Meanwhile, President of the European Council Charles Michel, made it clear that the European Union does not recognize the results of the election. The EU also demanded that the detained protesters be released.
EU leaders offered to help to mediate discussion between the government and the opposition.
In addition, the EU has allocated $63 million in financial support, some of which will be allocated to help victims of violence and to establish independent media organizations in Belarus.
Back in February, Belarus showed interest in developing diplomatic relations with Japan. Congratulating the Emperor of Japan Naruhito on his birthday, Belarusian deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrei Dapkiunas expressed a desire to advance bilateral relations with the island nation.
The Belarusian diplomat said Belarus and Japan have been connected through many years of friendship.
“We remember and appreciate the aid and attention Japan has provided and continues providing to Belarus…,” Dapkiunas said.
