Canada lifts Belarus sanctions after 11 years

Canada is proceeding with a plan to ease trade restrictions imposed on Belarus 11 years ago, reports CBC News.

Canada's Foreign Ministry aka Global Affairs Canada said in a statement on Monday: 

"This revised approach reflects Canada's acknowledgment that the government of Belarus has made progress in key areas, including the release of political prisoners and conducting a peaceful presidential election in October 2015. Canada also recognizes the constructive role played by Belarus in facilitating negotiations toward a ceasefire and peace agreement in Ukraine under the Minsk agreement."

After the new measure takes effect on July 12, 2017, only North Korea will remain on the restrictions list.

Ottawa imposed economic sanctions on Belarus over human rights violations during the presiential elections and a crackdown on the opposition.