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Washington Welcomes Release of Political Prisoners in Belarus

© RIA Novosti . Egor Eremov / Go to the mediabankFormer Belarusian presidential candidate Andrei Sannikov
Former Belarusian presidential candidate Andrei Sannikov - Sputnik International
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The United Sates regards the recent release of two political prisoners in Belarus as an important step toward the improvement of democracy in the country, U.S. State Department said.

The United Sates regards the recent release of two political prisoners in Belarus as an important step toward the improvement of democracy in the country, U.S. State Department said.

Belarusin authorities released over the weekend former Belarusian presidential candidate Andrei Sannikov and his campaign manager Dmitry Bondarenko.

“This, coupled with previous releases, represents a significant step,” spokesperson Mark Toner said in a statement on Monday.

“We urge the Government of Belarus to immediately and unconditionally free all remaining political prisoners and ensure the full restoration of their civil and political rights,” the statement said.

Both Sannikov and Bondarenko were arrested in 2010 on charges of inciting mass riots after presidential elections.

Hundreds of demonstrators attempted to storm the government headquarters in protest against President Alexander Lukashenko's re-election for a fourth term. Dozens were arrested and went on trial, receiving various prison terms.

The United States and the European Union have demanded that Minsk release all political prisoners. Only Sannikov and Bondarenko asked Lukashenko for a pardon.

“Enhanced respect for democracy and human rights remains central to improving relations between the United States and Belarus,” Toner said.

 

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