Lukashenko: Belarus-Russia cooperation is based on regional ties

MINSK, 11 March (BelTA) – Close interregional ties are a foundation for expanding comprehensive cooperation between Belarus and Russia, President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko said as he met with Omsk Oblast Governor Viktor Nazarov on 11 March, BelTA has learnt.

Delegations from Russian regions are always welcome in Belarus, because they bring concrete business proposals, the Belarusian head of state said.

Alexander Lukashenko noted that Omsk Oblast is a promising partner for Belarus, because it is one of the leading regions of the Russian Federation and the Siberian Federal District.

The Belarusian President pointed to the vigorous development of trade between Belarus and Omsk Oblast in recent years. In 2011 the trade exceeded the pre-crisis level of 2008 and expanded by nearly 35% in 2012 to approximate $230 million. “I am convinced that we will be able to keep it up, because we are well aware of the capacities of Omsk Oblast and the potential of our country,” the President underlined.

Alexander Lukashenko noted that today it is not enough just to boost trade. “In order to be a success in the long-term perspective, we need to merge our potentials and implement mutually beneficial joint projects across the entire economic spectrum,” the head of state said. He emphasized that this pertains not only to assembly factories, but also joint ventures.

The President believes that bilateral initiatives based on the synergy of manufacturing and academic capacities of the two sides are particularly relevant within the framework of the Single Economic Space. “It is encouraging that we are making progress in this field,” the head of state said.

Alexander Lukashenko noted that Omsk Oblast set up assembly factories manufacturing Belarusian farm machines. The office of the Omsk company Mostovik is expanding its operations in Belarus. The two sides are considering joint production of carbon black and healthcare products from flax.

The head of state deems it necessary to intensify cooperation in the scientific field. In his words, Belarusian research centers are ready to launch major innovative projects together with their Omsk Oblast counterparts.

The President highlighted cooperation opportunities in agriculture, transportation, and construction. Belarusian companies can offer their machinery and equipment, and also turnkey infrastructure projects.

“In other words, there is a multitude of cooperation opportunities,” the President said. He suggested discussing concrete cooperation prospects with Omsk Oblast.