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“Taking into account the arrangements we have reached with southern Africa alone, I can say that the trade with the region will reach no less than $2.5 billion. If we add Sudan, Egypt, other countries, Equatorial Guinea, the target of $3 billion in trade is attainable,” Viktor Sheiman said.

In his words, Belarus is looking for new markets for its products, and the countries on the African continent are of particular significance. “Beside, they have a high regard for us. They remember the Soviet Union and the relations that they had back then. Many of the African heads of state received education in the Soviet Union. Based on this, they are trying to build partnership relations with those who they know and who they trust,” Viktor Sheiman said.

“Africa is interesting because it has a lot of minerals that we need for our industry and economy. They also have great human resources. In addition to the supply of our equipment we can set up joint ventures there. We can also work in the transport, energy and agriculture sectors. All these topics are relevant, and we can engage in the projects in these sectors on the African continent,” he said.

When asked about the solvency of partners in Africa, Viktor Sheiman said: “Nobody is going to cooperate for free. Economy comes first. When they have no money, they are willing to pay in mineral resources, which we are okay with.”