MINSK, 13 November (BelTA) – Belarus is prepared for the all-round cooperation with Kaliningrad Oblast, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said as he met with Governor of Russia's Kaliningrad Oblast Anton Alikhanov on 13 November, BelTA informs.
“We are prepared for the cooperation in all areas of interest for Kaliningrad Oblast. You can be sure of it,” Alexander Lukashenko stressed.
The president said that Belarus views this region of Russia as a very promising and close trade and economic partner. “Despite the absolute figures are rather modest, there is a big potential. We have projects and programs of cooperation,” the head of state remarked.
In particular, there are big prospects for advancing industrial cooperation, interaction on agriculture, construction, and transport. “Our country is traditionally strong in the development of such sectors. We can also cooperate in the manufacturing sector, car industry and machine-tool building. There are big prospects for cooperation in the construction of agricultural facilities and construction in general. Belarus used to be a beacon and a good example in the construction industry,” the president said.
Alexander Lukashenko remarked that Kaliningrad Oblast is now gearing up for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. “If you need help, we are here. We can not only provide construction services, like we did in Sochi, we can also offer a helping hand in the transport industry. We can supply you with steelwork, cement, and other construction materials,” he said.
There are also good prospects for cooperation in the development of the digital economy and IT. “This industry is increasingly vibrant. We have created a strong IT park. World IT companies are registered there. We have gained experience. Therefore, you are welcome to use anything you need,” the head of state said.
Belarus is also ready to cooperate with Kaliningrad Oblast in the R&D sector. “”Your scientists can visit Belarus and work here, or we can set up strong affiliated companies, schools, institutes. We can do it,” the president is convinced.
There is a big potential for humanitarian cooperation, the Belarusian leader remarked. “Education is the main thing. Russia has big achievements in this field. Our education minister visited Russia. They agreed on many things. We will also support these avenues of cooperation,” Alexander Lukashenko said.
The head of state expressed hope that after the first official visit to Minsk Anton Alikhanov will have good impressions of Belarus. This visit is expected to give an impetus for the development of bilateral relations.
