MINSK, 18 March (BelTA) – Belarus and Turkey plan to expand cooperation in trade, economy and investment, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkey to Belarus Kezban Nilvana Darama told reporters after the meeting with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko on 18 March, BelTA informs.
“Belarus and Turkey have similar views regarding the development of cooperation. We seek to increase the flight frequency, develop trade and economic relations in a more balanced way, step up efforts to attract more Turkish investors to the Belarusian economy, and promote tourism,” Kezban Nilvana Darama said.
In her words, the sides also discuss three projects which can be implemented during the visit of Alexander Lukashenko to Turkey. “I'd prefer not to announce them because it will be too early,” the diplomat said. It was reported earlier that the countries are mulling over the opening of assembly plants for Gomselmash harvesters and Amkodor equipment. It is unknown if they will be launched in the coming months.
“Apart from the projects which are in the pipeline, plans have been made to hold a business forum during the visit where business circles would have a chance to discuss new projects,” the ambassador said. It is expected that the legal framework of the Belarusian-Turkish relations will be expanded. At present it comprises over 40 agreements.
Kezban Nilvana Darama emphasized that the relations between Turkey and Belarus rely on deep mutual understanding and friendship. “We have a very solid foundation for the development of relations, and our countries do not have any issues or a problematic agenda,” she said.
The trade turnover between the two countries reached $984 million last year (up 5% from the level of 2017). However, Belarus' trade deficit made up $618 million.
Belarus' major exports are potash fertilizers, nitrile compounds, synthetic treads, linen fabrics, polycarboxylic acids, plain steel wires, cordwood, newsprint. Turkey exports farm produce, textiles and fabrics, synthetic threads, footwear and clothes, parts and components for automobile and tractor equipment to Belarus.
In 2018 Turkey invested $43.1 million in the Belarusian economy. More than 300 enterprises with the Turkish capital are registered in Belarus.
