Photo of Belarus' Economy Ministry
MINSK, 24 September (BelTA) – Belarus and Russia are drafting a forecast for the Union State social and economic development for the next three years, Belarusian Economy Minister Yuri Chebotar said during a meeting with Russian Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov on 24 September, BelTA learned from the press service of the Belarusian Economy Ministry.
The parties discussed key areas of trade, economic, and investment cooperation, approaches to social and economic forecasting, and a range of other issues. According to Yuri Chebotar, in the face of external uncertainty, the resilience of both countries’ economies depends directly on their ability to respond flexibly and effectively to challenges.
“Today Belarus, together with its Russian partners, is shaping the architecture of strategic cooperation covering all key areas. Our goal is to create a solid foundation for sustainable and steady development. Our ministries are actively working on this, preparing the final social and economic development forecast of the Union State for the next three years,” the Belarusian minister emphasized.
Another important item on the agenda was the draft economic model of the Union State for 2027-2030, coordinated by the economic agencies of both countries. The document specifies areas of bilateral cooperation expected to generate additional benefits from integration.
Special attention was paid to the development of tourism. Practical steps to stimulate further growth in mutual tourist flows were discussed. “Year after year, mutual tourism is increasing. In 2024, Belarus welcomed more than 350,000 Russian tourists, which was 59% more than in 2023. Interest among Belarusians in traveling to Russia is also growing: the tourist flow rose by 78% compared with 2023. This confirms the sector’s strong potential, and we see great prospects in creating joint tourism brands and routes,” Yuri Chebotar stressed.
Maxim Reshetnikov highlighted the importance of establishing a Union State tourism information center in Smolensk Oblast: “The center will allow us to develop the Union State’s tourism potential in a coordinated way, contributing to the creation and promotion of a joint tourism product.”
Following the meeting, the parties agreed to hold the next joint session of the ministries’ boards in October-November this year, where the topics discussed during the meeting will be explored in more detail, with a focus on concrete measures to strengthen cooperation.
Follow us on:
