MINSK, 24 November (BelTA) – Cooperation between the upper houses of the parliaments of Russia and Belarus is an example of an effective parliamentary dialogue, said Valentina Matviyenko, Chairwoman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly, welcoming the Belarusian delegation, BelTA has learned.
The Belarusian parliamentary delegation led by Chairperson of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly Natalya Kochanova is paying an official visit to Russia on 24-25 November on the invitation of Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly Valentina Matviyenko. The two speakers held talks one-on-one and with the participation of the delegations on 24 November. The parties considered a wide range of issues related to the Belarusian-Russian cooperation.
"This is a landmark visit. We have been waiting for it for a long time. I think it is very timely given the international political and economic situation. This is a good opportunity to compare notes, discuss the current situation, discuss what we have done recently, and outline plans for next year. We have prepared a rich program. Many of our colleagues would like to meet with you. This testifies to the high level of relations between Russia and Belarus and respect for parliaments," Valentina Matviyenko said. “Belarus is our strategic ally, partner, our great friend. This is how it has been and , I am sure, will always be. Our presidents are in constant contact and determine the agenda for bilateral cooperation. The governments are also in close contact. In my opinion, the interaction between the upper houses of the parliaments of Russia and Belarus is a benchmark and a vivid example of effective parliamentary dialogue,” Valentina Matviyenko said.
According to the speaker, the construction of the Union State is taking the Russian-Belarusian relations to a principally new level of the integration interaction within the CIS space. “The unification of our national legislations, coordination of our foreign policy and coordinated defense policy make our countries stronger and help us face the future with confidence. The parliaments are playing a great role here, including the control over the implementation of the 28 Union State programs, which are basic in the construction and promotion of the union. This work is designed to greatly simplify the life of ordinary citizens, business representatives, to create more favorable business conditions for the expansion of economic and investment cooperation,” she stressed.
Photos courtesy of the Federation Council
