The House of Representatives intends to ratify the international treaties with Bulgaria and Venezuela for mutual legal assistance in criminal matters and extradition during the spring session, BelTA learnt from Vladimir Vasilenko, deputy chairman of the permanent commission of national security of the House of Representatives.

“Signing and ratification of these agreements are important steps towards combining our efforts in combating crime, including transnational organized crime,” he said. In his view, the presence of such agreements in the interstate relations testifies to the effectiveness and mutual interest of the countries in cooperation.

Under the agreements, Belarus will provide legal assistance in criminal matters to Bulgaria and Venezuela on a reciprocal basis. For example, the two sides undertake to provide each other with the necessary documents, materials and equipment, including physical evidence in criminal cases. The agreements allow calling people to testify, questioning victims, suspects, defendants, witnesses, experts. In addition, the agreements provide for the search and transfer of stolen property, as well as property obtained by criminal means.

The agreement also spells out grounds to reject legal assistance. For instance, legal assistance can be turned down if a request of the other side damages the sovereignty and security of the state or contradicts the national legislation.

In addition, MPs are expected to ratify the Belarusian-Bulgarian extradition treaty. The document obliges the sides to extradite persons for criminal prosecution and serving sentence in homeland. According to the treaty, the countries will extradite people who are to be sentenced for a year and more under the law of Belarus and Bulgaria. The countries will not extradite their nationals guilty in political and military crimes.