The discussions centred on a range of issues, including the establishment of a National Human Rights Institution, freedom of expression, assembly and association, the death penalty and the fight against torture and ill-treatment as well as children's rights. Cooperation with the UN and coordination on multilateral issues were equally discussed. The EU raised the detention of human rights defenders and political prisoners.
The talks demonstrated the commitment of the EU and Belarus to deepen their relations including in the area of human rights. They allowed for a frank and respectful preliminary exchange on issues of substance with a view to building trust, promoting reforms and developing cooperation.
