Opinions & Interviews

VETKA, 23 June (BelTA) – Bryansk Oblast and Gomel Oblast will expand cooperation in all the areas, Bryansk Oblast (Russia) Governor Alexander Bogomaz said at the opening ceremony of the traditional meeting of boundary regions of Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine in Vetka (Belarus), BelTA has learned.

Alexander Bogomaz emphasized that last year the trade between Bryansk Oblast and Belarus rose by a quarter compared with 2016. Gomel Oblast accounted for some 40% of the trade. There are joint ventures which products are growing in popularity. He expressed confidence that business contacts will get a strong boost. “Our business contacts are as strong as the inviolable Slavonic friendship. We will do our utmost to maintain momentum in all the areas in the interests of our people,” the governor noted.

This year the forum is defined by the concept Homeland in My Heart. “The word “homeland” is sacred for us, as its value cannot be measured. Homeland is, first of all, about heroic and legendary history, cultural and religious traditions, childhood and roots,” Alexander Bogomaz said. He noted that Slavonic nations have a very long history and joint military victories. He deems it important to pass historical values onto future generations.

The participants of the international forum were greeted by First Secretary of the Chernigov Oblast Committee of the Communist Party of Ukraine Vladimir Leshchenko. He noted that the meeting of the boundary regions is a very sincere event and that Slavonic peoples have many pages of common history.

The forum is based around over 10 venues and activities. The program includes exhibitions of paintings and photos, an exposition of local arts and crafts, sports events, a literature venue, a youth venue, a retro venue, a games venue, a fashion show, a disco and a concert.