MINSK, 31 May (BelTA) - The economic forum will strengthen ties between Belarus and the African continent, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Mozambique Manuel Jose Goncalves said at the opening of the second Belarusian-African Economic Forum on 31 May, BelTA has learned.
“We were very pleased to be invited to this forum. I am sure that this meeting will not only help discuss economic interests but also strengthen ties between Belarus and the African continent. This event is an important mechanism to promote the common advantages of economic diplomacy. Africa always needs new knowledge and contacts in order to use the potential it has, as well as to enter new markets and build partnerships in diplomacy and business,” he said.
The deputy minister emphasized that the scientific and technological potential of Belarus, which is actively expressed in the agricultural sector, presents opportunities for promoting mutually beneficial cooperation with Mozambique. “We pay special attention to the relations with Belarus and are trying to strengthen our ties, exchange experience and actively work in different sectors of the economy,” Manuel Jose Goncalves said.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Uganda to Belarus Johnson Agara Olwa said: “A year ago it was impossible to hold such an event because of the pandemic, but despite the fact that even now it is not easy to organize such an event, we have managed to get together today. It will allow us to discuss mutually beneficial projects.” Africa and Belarus have very good relations, which should be developed, because it is a platform for cooperation, said the diplomat.
Minsk is hosting the second Belarusian-African Economic Forum on 31 May-1 June. On behalf of Belarus the forum is attended by representatives of the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other ministries, the Development Bank of the Republic of Belarus, and the country's export-oriented enterprises from the heavy, light, and food industries, agriculture, mining, and other sectors. All in all, 170 companies have sent their representatives to the forum.
On behalf of African countries the forum is attended by the deputy foreign minister of Mozambique, heads and representatives of embassies of African countries in Belarus, honorary consuls of African countries in Minsk, and the heads of the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce and Union of African Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Agriculture and Professions. All in all, the forum has drawn representatives of 14 African states.
Photos by Pavel Orlovsky
