16 Dec 2019 21:21

Supporters of Russia-Belarus integration planning rally

MINSK. Dec 16 (Interfax) - Several Belarusian public organizations which favor deeper integration with Russia have asked the Belarusian presidential administration to assist with obtaining a permit to hold a rally on December 20.

"The question of the Belarusian-Russian integration is very important for our two nations," the request said, according to Radio Liberty.

One co-signatory is Valery Drako, chairman of For Democracy, Social Progress and Justice civic association and the Minsk organizer of the Immortal Regiment march, the news outlet said.

"The application has been filed, it is not a fake. I will say right away that we have yet to receive a reply from the Minsk city executive committee. We are still waiting. I suppose there will be some clarity in coming days," Drako said.

The supporters of the integration are asking the authorities' permission to rally in October Square in central Minsk, the report said.

Meanwhile, those opposed to the integration are planning an unauthorized counter-rally on December 20 at the same place. According to the preliminary information, the two events are planned for different times.