The President of Belarus Alexandr Lukashenko was met by President Nicolae Timofti with military honors, Moldovan wine, bread and salt at the State Residence in Chisinau. Before playing the national anthems, the two heads of state had an informal discussion, IPN reports.

Even if workers swept the red carpet for over 30 minutes, a strong wind hampered their efforts right when Alexandr Lukashenko got out of the car.

After the official tête-à-tête meeting, the two Presidents will sign a number of bilateral agreements. Afterward, they will give a joint news conference. The official part of the visit of the Belarusian President ends at the State Residence this evening. Later, the delegation will go to Cricova to have dinner.

Alexandr Lukashenko came to Chisinau accompanied by about 20 officials and by representatives of the media of Belarus. On September 25, the Belarusian delegation will lay flowers at the monument to Ruler Stephan the Great and Holy. Afterward, Alexandr Lukashenko will have meetings with Head of Parliament Igor Corman and with leaders of parliamentary groups. At noon, the President of Belarus will meet with Prime Minster Iurie Leanca.

Alexandr Lukashenko is making an official visit to Moldova at the invitation of President Nicolae Timofti.