Press Releases

1. In Belarus, since the presidential election on August 9, large-scale protests have been continuing and clashes with security forces have led to casualties and detention of participants of these protests. 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.

2. Japan strongly calls for a dialogue among a wide range of domestic political groups in Belarus, so that the stability and development of the country can be ensured in a manner which reflects the collective will of the Belarussian people and respects the principles of the rule of law and democracy.