MINSK, 30 June (BelTA) – Belarus and Russia may reach an all-time high in bilateral trade. Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs Vladimir Makei made the statement after negotiations with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on 30 June, BelTA has learned.
Vladimir Makei said: “The advancement of our cooperation is most vividly demonstrated by figures of Belarus-Russia trade, which rose by more than 10% in January-April 2022 year-on-year. It is universally acknowledged that products of Belarusian and Russian enterprises are popular and in demand in both countries. At the same time potential for stepping up mutual shipments and manufacturing cooperation is still huge. Provided the current growth rate remains in place till the end of the year, we will be able to reach a historical high of bilateral trade.”
Vladimir Makei noted that during the meeting they had thoroughly discussed a broad range of Belarusian-Russian cooperation topics, including a number of matters concerning interaction between the two ministries of foreign affairs and topical items on the international agenda. “But the current situation in the world was not the only reason for the meeting. On 25 June we marked the 30th anniversary since Belarus-Russia diplomatic relations were established. Thirty years are a period of history, which allows us to sum up certain results, determine further steps on advancing and enhancing Belarus-Russia interaction. And we did that in the course of the meeting,” he said.
Vladimir Makei said he was glad that joint work was substantially invigorated across the board in the last few years. With the signing of the ordinance “On the main directions of realization of provisions of the Union State Foundation Treaty in 2021-2023” in November 2021 Belarus-Russia integration reached new heights and the development of the international situation once again confirmed the correctness of this decision.
Vladimir Makei mentioned the dynamics of contacts at the high level and the top level. “Leaders of our countries set the highest pace on the Belarusian-Russian cooperation track. Interaction between the governments of Belarus and Russia has evolved. It now boasts a high level of coordination of actions, rhythmical tempo, and the overall strive for results.”
The sides mentioned traditionally tight interaction between the ministries of foreign affairs of Belarus and Russia. A program of concerted actions in the area of foreign policy is being successfully implemented. “Consultations regarding the advancement of relations with India, Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan are scheduled to take place soon as well consultations on matters of Latin America, cooperation with the OSCE, the European Union, and other European organizations,” Vladimir Makei said.
