MINSK, 25 August (BelTA) – Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko named several areas of cooperation with Russia's Vologda Oblast as he met with Governor of Russia’s Vologda Oblast Georgy Filimonov, BelTA has learned.
The trade between Belarus and Vologda Oblast has increased significantly over the past five years, the head of state said. “The trade volumes are substantial. However, I asked my aides to analyze the situation so that I could identify some specific areas of cooperation with you,” the president said addressing the Vologda Oblast governor.
Aleksandr Lukashenko stated that Belarus is a machine-building country and therefore exports a lot of machinery. “Vologda Oblast purchases various types of our machinery and is familiar with it. Of course, any machinery has certain shortcomings. We are grateful to you for having evaluated our equipment and for considering it one of the most acceptable in terms of price and quality for your region,” the Belarusian leader added.
In this regard, he touched upon the topic of tractor manufacturing: “The tractor is very well-liked in your region and in Russia in general. As I have been briefed, we produce approximately ten modifications and about the same number of special vehicles based on our tractors. We are ready to expand this line and are interested in developing joint production facilities.”
According to the president, Belarus is also ready to offer individual financial programs for Vologda Oblast and to provide servicing for all the equipment that will be operating in the region.
“This shouldn't even be up for discussion, and I shouldn't even have to talk about it. We agreed that if we sell equipment somewhere... Listen, who would buy it without after-sales service?” the head of state asked a logical question. “Therefore, at the very least, basic servicing must be provided instantly, so people know where to turn to replace a broken gear or an engine.”
“Vologda Oblast, like all of Russia, the post-Soviet space, and Belarus, is interested in the supply of elevators. A mass replacement of elevators is underway. We are ready to work with you on the matter,” Aleksandr Lukashenko outlined another area of cooperation.
The head of state assured the governor that Belarus is also ready to cooperate with Vologda Oblast in food supplies. “I know that you are successful in this regard as it is, but still, it is a northern region (relatively northern). Perhaps you need some food products. You just say. We are ready to cooperate with you,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.
The president also named construction as one of promising cooperation venues. “You know our capabilities. We are ready to work with you not only in the construction sector but also in finishing works, and above all, in providing design services. We have a very powerful sector that deals with the design of industrial enterprises, public buildings, and housing. If you have a need, we are ready to work with you in this area,” he said.
The Belarusian leader also mentioned humanitarian cooperation, drawing attention to the fact that Vologda Oblast does a great deal to protect historical memory. “You know our policy in Belarus. We do not tear down monuments. We build them,” Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized. “You are always welcome to come visit such giant monuments as the Brest Fortress, Khatyn, Ola, and many other memorials. And not only these. Your people can also get familiar with the history of Belarus. You are always welcome to come.”
Aleksandr Lukashenko said that a monument to graduates of the Lepel and Cherepovets military schools, among whom are Heroes of the Soviet Union, was unveiled in Cherepovets. Georgy Filimonov supported this initiative and took part in its opening. “We highly value the monument you unveiled. Our people and tourists come to see this monument. We need to once again draw the attention of Belarusians to this,” the president said.
In January-June 2025, trade between Belarus and Vologda Oblast amounted to $316.4 million, which is 100.9% year-on-year. Overall, the indicator has demonstrated growth in recent years: if in 2020 trade stood at $335 million, then in 2024 mutual trade reached $678.1 million.
Belarus’ main exports include liquid crystal devices, lasers, tractors and truck tractors, parts and accessories for vehicles and tractors, nitrogen fertilizers, and other goods. Belarus has primarily imported Vologda Oblast’s flat-rolled products from various types of steel, wire, copper and copper alloys, ferrous metal waste and scrap, as well as other types of products.
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