MINSK, 29 September (BelTA) – Belarus is committed to mutually beneficial cooperation with Russia and advocates for consistent fulfillment of all obligations, Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko said in his speech at the plenary meeting of the 7th Forum of Regions of Belarus and Russia on 29 September, BelTA las learned.
Aleksandr Lukashenko spoke about various fields of cooperation between Belarus and Russia. These include science, trade and the economy, investment projects.
Leading universities of the two countries are implementing a number of joint educational and research projects, developing study guides together. As of today, about 11,000 Belarusians study in Russian universities, and more than 1,500 Russians study in the Republic of Belarus. “However, it is necessary to further promote cooperation in education through student exchange programs, training courses, forums and conferences, student brigades,” the president believes.
Since 2000, the two countries have fulfilled more than 50 Union State programs in technology and innovation. Comprehensive dialogue has been established between the Belarus Hi-Tech Park and the Skolkovo Innovation Center.
“The preservation of the existing dynamics is a priority,” the Belarusian leader emphasized.
According to Aleksandr Lukashenko, the nearest forums should focus on cooperation in the information space and measures to ensure the information security of the Union State.
The head of state also mentioned the signing of the agreement on the mutual recognition of visas in June 2020. This agreement will help improve Belarus’ transit, tourism and investment appeal.
“The governments managed to come to terms in oil supplies this year, the construction of the Belarusian nuclear power plant, changing conditions of government lending and borrowing,” the president remarked.
At the same time, the president mentioned a number of pending issues on the agenda. “One of the main issues is the creation of equal conditions for Belarusian and Russian economic operators. We are ready to discuss all proposals aimed at strengthening common economic security. However, we must remember that no significant progress is possible without honoring our obligations,” he said.
“Belarus’ position has been and remains stable and predictable. It is focused on mutually beneficial cooperation. I am convinced that in this situation the voice of the forum will be heard by the governments of the two countries, and it will help solve those issues,” the head of state added.
He also expressed confidence that the Belarusian-Russian relations will be increasingly vibrant in the best interests of the brotherly nations of the two countries.