Polish MP On Lukashenka's Scandalous Decree: Solution To Leave Belarusians In Poland Will Be Certainly Found
- 7.09.2023, 17:41
More than 300,000 Belarusian citizens may live in Poland today.
Member of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland and Vice-Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Commission Pavel Koval is convinced that Lukashenka's decision to ban obtaining passports from Belarusian diplomatic missions abroad will not prevent Belarusians from staying in Poland.
The former vice minister of foreign affairs commented on Lukashenka's latest innovations in an interview with Radio Svaboda during an economic forum in Karpacz in southern Poland.
“The solution is just technical. There will definitely be a solution so that the Belarusians can stay in Poland. All those who support a free Belarus are waiting for the end of Lukashenka's regime. And it will happen. Let's not think about politics in Belarus in such a way that Lukashenka will always be there. The era of Lukashenka will end. He will lose his power along with Putin, and perhaps even soon. The Belarusians, who today work for Belarus abroad, will one day create a truly free Belarus.”
Since August 2020, the number of Belarusian citizens with Polish documents has tripled or even more. According to informal estimates of the Polish state authorities, more than 300,000 Belarusian citizens may live in Poland today.
In the period from August 10, 2020 to June 30, 2023, the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued 52,436 humanitarian visas to citizens of Belarus, another 113,906 visas were issued as part of the Poland Business Harbor program, which allows freelancers, start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises to quickly move to Poland.
“We have two reasons to support Belarusians. First is our tradition. Poland has a very significant tradition of supporting emigration, opposition circles and those who are persecuted in their country. This is connected with the tradition of Solidarity. Secondly, Poland has real and fundamental reasons for it. We pay special attention to the education of the young Belarusian political elite. Finally, it will be beneficial for both Belarus and Poland. After all, if Lukashenka's regime collapses, then these people will play a very important role,” the Polish deputy said.
Starting from 2021, the Polish side has made 81,000 positive decisions on issuing a residence permit for citizens of Belarus, another 8,500 people have been denied a temporary residence permit over the same period. Since 2021, Belarusians have become the largest group applying for international protection in Poland.