07 June 2023, 18:15

Belarus, Russia expand regional partnerships

GOMEL, 7 June (BelTA) - Gomel Oblast of Belarus and Primorye Territory of Russia intend to expand cooperation in many areas: from the economy to social matters. Prospects for a mutually beneficial partnership were discussed at a meeting between Gomel Oblast Governor Ivan Krupko and Governor of Primorye Territory Oleg Kozhemyako in Gomel on 7 June, BelTA has learned.

Oleg Kozhemyako noted that Gomel Oblast and Primorye Territory have a lot in common, not only in the economy. "This year Gomel Oblast celebrated its 85th anniversary. This year we are also celebrating the 85th anniversary of the formation of Primorye Territory, "the governor emphasized.

"We seek contacts that will give a new impetus to the development [of interregional cooperation]," Oleg Kozhemyako is convinced.

Speaking about Gomel-based manufacturers, he noted that the products by Rogachev Dairy Plant and Turov Dairy Plant are already supplied to Primorye Territory. "We give preference to direct contracts, without intermediaries. This helps reduce prices for the end user, increase sales," Oleg Kozhemyako emphasized.

"We are ready to provide the sites [for Belarusian producers]. This line of cooperation is important and necessary," he added.

As the most important import item, the governor called Gomselmash machines. "Polesie harvesters have proven their worth in the Far East as a whole, including with conversion to caterpillar tracks, a necessary step in our climatic conditions. This year we intend to purchase about 20 [units], next year - up to 80," Oleg Kozhemyako informed.

Taking into account the proximity of Primorye Territory to the PRC, the region can act as a platform for joint projects related to the supply of Belarusian products and technologies to China. In addition, the ports of Primorye Territory can also be involved in the implementation of joint projects and initiatives, the governor noted.

"We are interested in glass products, pipes, building materials, metal products made in your region," the governor added. In turn, boric acid, fish products and other goods are supplied to Belarus from the Russian region.

"Primorye Territory is actively developing. The economy as a whole is growing. In particular, the construction industry has been expanding rapidly. I think that the current and new areas of cooperation will give us the opportunity to tap into the potential of Belarus and Primorye Territory," Oleg Kozhemyako believes.

Another important area for partnership is tourism. "We welcome the exchange of cultural ties. We want to encourage residents of Primorye Territory, many of whom have roots in Belarus, to travel more to Belarus, and our Belarusian friends to visit, for example, the Pacific coast," Oleg Kozhemyako said.

"Youth policy is becoming more and more relevant. We, for our part, will encourage exchange of children's delegations, both for sports and history purposes," the governor emphasized.

In turn, Gomel Oblast Governor Ivan Krupko proposed to set up working commissions to discuss and resolve all emerging issues of cooperation in real time.