Putin: Russia, Belarus counter sanctions confidently and effectively

MINSK, 19 December (BelTA) – Russia and Belarus confidently and effectively counter the sanctions by the unfriendly states, attempts to isolate both countries from global markets, Russian President Vladimir Putin told a press conference after the talks with Belarusian head of state Aleksandr Lukashenko in Minsk on 19 December, BelTA has learned.

Vladimir Putin called the talks useful and timely. The parties summed up the results and outlined the next steps. In a businesslike and constructive manner, the parties considered the main issues of Russian-Belarusian relations in economy, cultural and humanitarian matters, security and defense. The discussions were held taking into account the situation in the world in general and in the region in particular.

"I would like to emphasize that our countries are the closest allies and strategic partners, cooperation between which is based on the principles of mutual respect and consideration of each other's interests," he said.

"Together we are countering the sanctions pressure from the unfriendly states, attempts to isolate Russia and Belarus from global markets, coordinating steps to minimize the impact of illegal restrictive measures on the economies of our countries. I must say that we are doing this quite confidently and effectively," the Russian leader added.

He lauded the successful implementation of the 28 Union State integration programs. They have been implemented by 60%. "Mutual trade is growing at a good pace. In January-October it rose by 10.1%," the Russian leader said.

Enterprises of the two countries maintain close cooperation ties, have established mutual supplies of components and finished products.