Business news

MINSK, 10 October (BelTA) – Belarus and China are considering opportunities for the implementation of joint projects in mechanical engineering. The prospects for the bilateral cooperation in this field were discussed during the recent meeting between Chairman of the State Science and Technology Committee of Belarus Alexander Shumilin and representatives of the Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission, BelTA learned from the press service of Belarus’ State Science and Technology Committee.

“The parties discussed ways to expand the Belarusian-Chinese cooperation in science, technology and innovations, including in the development of technologies for the automotive industry. They also considered possible implementation of mechanical engineering projects. Special attention was paid to the manufacture of electric vehicles,” the press service said.

“In early September 2016, the Belarusian company Belkommunmash demonstrated two electric bus models and presented a new public transport stop equipped with a charging station. Besides, the Belarusian-Chinese BelGee plant is also working on a project to produce electric cars.

The Belarusian State Science and Technology Committee noted that Belarus has industrial potential for the manufacture and assembly of electric cars, traction motors and charging stations. However, there are no producers of car batteries. “The manufacture of lithium-ion batteries requires a considerable capital investment. It is possible only if there is a large investor,” the press service noted.

During the meeting, the parties also considered the prospects for regional cooperation, development of innovative infrastructure, and matters related to co-financing of Belarusian-Chinese projects. “In late September 2016, Belarus’ State Science Technology Committee and the Ministry of Science and Technology of China signed an agreement on cooperation in joint financing of science and technology projects. Plans have been made to sign a similar document with the Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission,” the press service said.