MINSK, 8 April (BelTA) – Belarus highly appreciates cooperation with China and is interested in the arrival of Chinese banks. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko made the relevant statement as he met with Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi in Minsk on 8 April, BelTA has learned.
Welcoming the guest, the Belarus President stressed: “We’ve been looking forward to your arrival. We have things to discuss in anticipation of two important events — the visit of Belarus’ friend, China President Xi Jinping to Minsk and the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Great Victory over the Nazi invaders.”
Speaking about trade and economic cooperation, the Belarusian head of state said it was very intensive. The figures testify to that. In 2014 Belarus-China trade in merchandise and services exceeded $4 billion. At the same time Alexander Lukashenko noted that there is a small problem — trade deficit. “We will discuss the issue and I think we will be able to manage the problem,” he said.
The head of state also noted that Belarus had utilized about $5.5 billion worth of Chinese loans. About 20 programs are being implemented thanks to Chinese loans. “We are grateful to you for that,” stressed the head of state. “We are moving away from loans to direct investments,” added the President. In his words, the implementation of the China-Belarus Industrial Park project will facilitate that.