Belarus says disappointed by EU decision to extend sanctions

MINSK, Feb. 17 (Xinhua) -- Belarus has expressed its disappointment with the European Union's decision to extend sanctions against it for next year.

In a statement, the country's foreign ministry called the EU restrictions groundless remnants of the past that inhibit political dialogue.

On Monday, the European Council extended restrictive measures against Belarus for a year until Feb. 28, 2021.

The EU introduced restrictive measures against Belarus in 2011, partially reduced in 2016, but an arms embargo and visa sanctions on four Belarussian citizens have been extended annually.