Opinions & Interviews

The participants in the meeting exchanged views on the current state of trade, economic and investment cooperation between the two countries, and the ways to enhance dialogue. The parties also discussed the cooperation of Belarus with international organizations, including the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the forthcoming launch of the European Investment Bank in Belarus.

When welcoming the distinguished guest, Vladimir Zinovsky noted the significant potential of cooperation between Belarus and the United Kingdom in trade, economy and investment. According to the Minister, Belarus offers favorable conditions for investment projects in the free economic zones, the Hi-Tech Park and the Chinese-Belarusian industrial park Great Stone, in small and medium-sized towns, and this should help attract strategic and responsible investors to Belarus.

The Minister cited the visit of director of the Foreign Office's political unit, Sir Simon Gass to Belarus in February 2016 as a good example of bilateral dialogue.

“Continued dialogue on topical issues of our cooperation will contribute to finding additional resources for the development of cooperation between Belarus and the United Kingdom, including in the financial, banking, and investment areas. The support of the United Kingdom in the international financial institutions and the renewed WTO accession process is important for Belarus. We are open to any discussions,” Vladimir Zinovsky noted.

Prince Michael of Kent, for his part, stressed that his visit is taking place at an interesting time. Belarus is asserting itself on the world stage, and the United Kingdom is currently going through a special stage after the Brexit vote. The situation in which we find ourselves inspires and encourages us to develop cooperation. We do not know much about investment in Belarus. We hope the Economy Ministry will help us get a better understanding of these opportunities in order to promote our cooperation,” Prince Michael said.