Business news

BREST, 20 June (BelTA) – Israel is interested in buying Belarusian food, BelTA learned from Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Israel to Belarus Alon Shoham in Brest on 20 June.

The ambassador noted that Israel grows increasingly interested in buying organic food. “We believe that Belarusian products offer very good quality. We believe that Belarusian foods are organic and up to high standards. We are considering the possibility of importing Belarusian food to Israel. I am talking virtually about all the agricultural products and especially dairy products and beef. Our consumers are also interested in, for instance, mushrooms and berries since virtually none of those grow in Israel due to the lack of land and water,” said Alon Shoham.

The diplomat arrived in Belarus several months ago. He is getting familiar with the regions now. On 20 June the ambassador went to Brest Oblast and met with Brest Oblast Governor Anatoly Lis. The governor said: “We trade with more than 100 countries. But trade with Israel is small. It is necessary to get it much bigger. Apart from food we can sell light industry products. Our woodworking industry is quite well-developed, too. I am convinced that we can expand cooperation in other areas as well.”

During the meeting the sides discussed the possibility of setting up a joint body in Belarus to control the production of food and to promote it in Israel. Sharing the best practices in agriculture was also discussed as well as the organization of educational tours for Belarusian and Israeli university students. Tourism development was also mentioned. Alon Shoham said: “Every region of Belarus, particularly Brest Oblast, is interesting for Israelis from the point of view of nostalgic tourism. Coming here, people see their history. They can get familiar with the nature we don’t have.”

The ambassador is also expected to visit Brest and Baranovichi. He will visit several companies and meet with representatives of the Jewish community.