Opinions & Interviews

Alexander Lukashenko expressed confidence that the visit of the Orenburg Oblast delegation will give an additional impetus to the development of mutually beneficial cooperation. The Belarusian President emphasized that the bilateral trade was rather high in 2013. Belarus’ trade with this region of Russia exceeded $1 billion. However, it fell by one half in 2014. According to the Belarusian head of state, in such a situation the sides need to take prompt measures to restore positive dynamics in bilateral relations.

“I believe that in the present complicated conditions active search for new areas of common interest within the framework of regional cooperation is an important element of the Belarusian-Russian cooperation in general,” Alexander Lukashenko said.

Belarus exports various machines and equipment to Orenburg Oblast, imports goods which Belarusian enterprises need. Orenburg Oblast operates two plants assembling Belarusian equipment, namely Gomselmash harvesters and MTZ tractors. Alexander Lukashenko believes that the interaction between the sides should not be limited to these projects. It is essential to develop new cooperation avenues, use industrial, scientific, technical and personnel reserves of the two sides.

The President stressed that Belarus is ready to provide an entire range of equipment to the Russian partners. “I am convinced that during the visits to machine-building plants you will make sure that this equipment is good,” the Belarusian head of state said.

According to the President, cooperation in agribusiness is one of the main areas of common interest. This industry is vigorously developing both in Belarus and Orenburg Oblast.

Apart from that, Alexander Lukashenko deems it necessary to enhance cooperation in the construction industry, science and technology. “Belarus is ready to provide machinery, equipment, technologies, designing and engineering services, building materials if you need them,” the President underlined.

Alexander Lukashenko said that Belarus is ready to promptly respond to all claims and proposals of partners and expressed confidence that after the visit of the governor the sides will pass concrete documents to bolster cooperation with Orenburg Oblast.