Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 10 April (BelTA) – Products made by Belarusian companies can be used to restore and develop the economy of Iraq. Prime Minister of Belarus Andrei Kobyakov put forward the proposal as he met with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iraq Ibrahim Al Jaafari on 10 April, BelTA has learned.

The Prime Minister said: “There are many enterprises in Belarus, which products can be used for restoring and developing the national economy of Iraq. The durability and value for money of many Belarusian brands such as Belarus tractors, MAZ trucks, Amkodor road construction machines have been known to Iraqi consumers for a long time.”

Andrei Kobyakov remarked that Belarus is an open-economy country. More than half of what Belarus makes is exported. “In its region Belarus is at the forefront in the chemical industry, petrochemical industry, agricultural and automobile mechanical engineering, the industrial system. Belarus is also the leader in advancing information and communication technologies. Belarus satisfies the domestic demand for food virtually on its own and exports considerable amounts of agricultural products to the global market,” noted the head of government.

In his words, Belarus is intent on expanding partnership with Iraq in all spheres of mutual interest. “Our countries have a long history of successful trade and economic cooperation in the past, however, today's level of bilateral cooperation in this sphere is far below our potential,” said the Prime Minister.

Andrei Kobyakov went on saying that the two countries have been good partners for a long time and constructive cooperation with Iraq is one of the important components in Belarus’ foreign policy. “Today when the people of Iraq are fighting a hard and intensive battle against terrorist groups I would like to wish our friends in Iraq courage and unity, victory over terrorism as soon as possible, peace, stability, and prosperity,” said Andrei Kobyakov.

“I expect that your visit and its results will help arrange the visit of my counterpart from Iraq to Belarus. I will be looking forward to his visit,” the Belarusian head of government told the Iraqi Minister of Foreign Affairs.