MINSK, 12 May (BelTA) - Integration and cooperation within the framework of the Union State is important for countering the sanctions pressure, Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko said as he met with Governor of Russia's Khabarovsk Territory Mikhail Degtyarev in Minsk on 12 May, BelTA has learned.
"Now is the right time for your visit. Our states have come under pressure from the West. We see the cooperation and integration within the framework of the Union State as an important element in countering this pressure. Everything we do in this context is aimed at defending our common economic interests, common core values and priorities. Cooperation with the regions of the Russian Federation is one of the core elements of our foreign policy," Roman Golovchenko said.
He noted the need for finding prompt solutions at all levels, including in order to replace imports. "We need to lend each other a helping hand and take all measures so that industry, agriculture and other sectors of the economy work steadily and in a balanced manner," the prime minister stressed.
He noted that despite the geographical remoteness, Khabarovsk Territory is an important trade and economic partner for Belarus. "Trade has posted positive dynamics. In 2021, it more than doubled. In Q1 it rose by 2.5 times. But we should not be complacent about these figures. We can achieve much more," Roman Golovchenko drew attention.
Trade between Belarus and Khabarovsk Territory increased by 2.1 times in 2021 to total $18.1 million Exports surged more than twofold to $17.9 million. Last year, Belarus stepped up shipments of jams, jellies, marmalade, fruit and nut puree, malt, aluminum rods and sections and also specific goods (including dump trucks, vehicles and equipment). Recently major exports included cheese and cottage cheese, butter, insulated wires and cables, fittings, fixtures made of base metals used for furniture and doors and also plastic building materials. Major imports were flat-rolled products made of alloy steel, transmission gears, equipment, transport vehicles, frozen fish, medicines.
