Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 22 November (BelTA) – Belarus is ready to construct an ice arena and a biathlon stadium in Georgia, Belarusian Prime Minister Andrei Kobyakov said as he met with Chairman of the Georgian Parliament Irakli Kobakhidze on 22 November, BelTA has learned.

“We know that Georgia is planning to build an ice arena, a biathlon stadium, and an Olympic ski jumping center. Our country has the necessary expertise to offer. You can take a look at our ice arenas and the biathlon center in Raubichi,” Andrei Kobyakov remarked. He suggested stepping up cooperation between Belarusian and Georgian design and construction companies. The prime minister also stated that Belarus is ready to share its experience in developing urban territories and specific regions.

In his words, Belarus views Georgia as an important partner in Transcaucasia. Belarus hopes to expand bilateral contacts in industry, agriculture, petrochemistry, pharmaceutics, and the humanitarian field. “Several famous Belarusian brands – Minsk Tractor Works (MTZ trademark), Mogilevliftmash, MAZ, and other companies – would like to speed up the search for reliable partners to carry out joint projects. This is why we value your recommendations on potential partners to get the most out of it in a relatively short period of time,” the prime minister clarified.

According to Andrei Kobyakov, Belarus and Georgia should take advantage of science parks to promote joint scientific projects to develop innovative entrepreneurship and train IT specialists. “This is the field where we could make much progress,” he added.

Belarus and Georgia plan to boost trade at least up to $200 million. Belarus’ major exports are high-technology products, including Stadler trains, agricultural vehicles, petrochemical and pharmaceutical products. The two countries have also agreed to develop cooperation in manufacturing, in particular, by means of setting up a joint venture to manufacture elevators.

In turn, Irakli Kobakhidze expressed gratitude for the opportunity to make the visit and learn more about Belarus’ economic and agricultural development. “We have a keen interest in fostering the relations between our countries. We have very good relations in the political dimension,” the Georgian speaker noted. He also thanked Belarusian rescue workers who helped fight forest fires in the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park.