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PM: Belarus, Russia need to build common economic space first

MINSK, 29 December (BelTA) - Belarus and Russia need to build a common economic space the first thing in order to develop integration, Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko said in an interview with the International Television and Radio Company Mir, BelTA has learned.

According to Roman Golovchenko, the governments of Belarus and Russia have gradually come to an understanding that simple cooperation in economic relations between the countries is not enough, especially under the complex geopolitical situation, when both states are under sanctions. “We have understood that we need not just close cooperation, we need to build a common economic space. The common economic space begins with the harmonization of regulations,” he said.

“Let's assume that labeling has been introduced on the Russian market. Accordingly, Belarusian producers, not having access to this labeling, cannot sell their products. Or the opposite process: we have restrictions on the supply of goods, and this discriminates against Russian suppliers. There are a lot of such barriers that complicate the life of businesses, enterprises,” the prime minister said.

According to Roman Golovchenko, it is too early to talk about a single currency. First, we need to build a common economic space and harmonize legislation. “If we do this, perhaps then the issue of a single currency will be discussed. This will be done only if it is recognized beneficial for both countries,” he stressed.

“We need common approaches to state support for families with children, to the way pension length of service is accrued. We must harmonize these things and choose the best regulatory practices,” the prime minister added.

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