challenges. we discussed in particular the unacceptable situation in belarus. president lukashenka has shown a total disregard for democratic values, the rule of law, and the human rights of his own people. his brutal crackdown included the conviction and sentencing of presidential candidates who challenged him in the presidential election. and the repression and imprisonment of member of the free press including one of the polish press. so since this crack down has begun the united states and poland have come together unilaterally. we appreciate poland's strong support of the civil society and generosity to its people. we are looking for -- ford strong cooperation on this front. last point i will make is we