MINSK, 18 July (BelTA) – Belarusian-Russian cooperation in automobile industry will advance in three stages. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belarus to Russia Vladimir Semashko made the statement on the sidelines of a seminar for heads of diplomatic missions and consular institutions of Belarus. The seminar began in the Academy of Public Administration under the aegis of the President of Belarus on 18 July, BelTA has learned.
Vladimir Semashko reminded that Russia is now trying to resolve serious problems in the automobile industry. The withdrawal of Western companies from the Russian market has slowed down the production of cars and trucks in Russia due to the poor localization of manufacturing of vehicle parts.
Vladimir Semashko said: “Heads of Belarusian and Russian automobile enterprises have met recently. We seriously discussed what and how needs to be done in order to resolve this problem soon.”
In his words, the sides determined that cooperation has to advance in three stages: “Initially we have to share achievements of Russia and achievements of Belarus separately. Manufacturing capabilities are available, everything is available. It has to be done immediately. Such avenues have already been determined.”
The second stage covers the medium-term horizon. For instance, Belarusian enterprises are already ready to make the components the Russian market needs but they lack the capability to satisfy the demand of the partners in full. “Naturally the enterprises will need to purchase additional equipment or have it made,” the ambassador explained.
The realization of the third stage will require major investments. According to Vladimir Semashko, this program is designed to last till 2030.
