Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 11 November (BelTA) – Belarus and Turkey should switch to manufacturing cooperation. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko made the statement during expanded-participation talks with Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Minsk on 11 November, BelTA has learned.

“I think it is time for us to move away from simple merchandise trade towards a new form of cooperation — manufacturing cooperation — which is an important mechanism of survival in modern conditions. Belarus and Turkey have the necessary economic potential and instruments for that,” said the Belarus President.

According to Alexander Lukashenko, cooperation of Belarusian and Turkish companies in the production of tractors, automobiles, and automobile components looks promising. “It is necessary to encourage the establishment of joint ventures in Belarus and Turkey that will produce sophisticated technology products, including with a view to selling them to third countries,” believes the Belarusian leader.

The first few trucks made by Minsk Automobile Plant have been assembled in Izmir, Turkey. “I suggest considering wider adoption of that practice. We are ready to offer cooperation in manufacturing large-capacity haul trucks, road construction machines, and other special-purpose machines and vehicles to Turkish partners,” stated Alexander Lukashenko.

Belarusian forage harvesters made by Gomselmash are well thought of in Turkey. This is why the Belarusian head of state suggested considering ways of jointly manufacturing these machines in Turkey.

“Farmers all over the world know another flagship product of the Belarusian production sector — Belarus tractors — but these tractors have yet to gain ground in Turkey. We are actively seeking a strategic partner to set up the relevant manufacturing facility. We hope for your personal support for these projects as well as advice regarding the choice of worthy partners for Belarusian manufacturers,” noted Alexander Lukashenko.

The President added that the Belarusian-Turkish business forum, which was going on in Minsk, was meant to help advance bilateral cooperation in trade and economic affairs to a new level.

Alexander Lukashenko described the Belarusian-Turkish intergovernmental commission on economic affairs as an effective mechanism for developing bilateral trade. “I believe we shouldn’t postpone the next session much. I think it would be a good idea to hold the next session in Q1 2017,” said the Belarusian leader.

Alexander Lukashenko also spoke in favor of systematizing near-future steps in trade and economic affairs.

According to Alexander Lukashenko, it is important to advance cooperation in education and science. He invited Turkish students to get quality education in Belarus in compliance with the most rigorous European standards.

The Belarusian side also sees potential for developing ties with Turkish technological parks and technology transfer centers. “I would like to assure you that the Belarusian government will support Turkish companies, which participate in projects in Belarus,” concluded Alexander Lukashenko.