GOMEL, 20 May (BelTA) - Trade between Gomel Oblast and Uzbekistan has tripled over the past five years, Chairman of the Gomel Oblast Executive Committee Ivan Krupko said during a meeting with a delegation from Uzbekistan’s Fergana Oblast headed by Khayrullo Bozarov, BelTA has learned.
As Ivan Krupko emphasized, great attention is being paid to the development of cooperation between the two regions. “Gomel Oblast highly values its friendship with the Fergana Oblast,” he noted.
As Ivan Krupko emphasized, great attention is being paid to the development of cooperation between the two regions. “Gomel Oblast highly values its friendship with the Fergana Oblast,” he noted.
The sides signed an interregional agreement and are now maintaining constant contact, exchanging visits by official and business delegations, and taking part in exhibitions and forums. “This is already producing results. Trade between our regions is growing. Overall, over the past five years, trade between Gomel Oblast and Uzbekistan has tripled. However, there is still much work ahead,” Ivan Krupko stressed.
Among the areas in which the two regions intend to expand partnership are woodworking, agriculture, mechanical engineering, confectionery production and others.
“Investments are developing both from Gomel Oblast to Uzbekistan and from Uzbekistan to Gomel Oblast. Last year, Gomel Oblast received $300,000 in direct investment from Uzbekistan. At present, 50 enterprises [registered with Uzbek capital] operate in Gomel Oblast, mainly in trade and catering, though there are also manufacturing companies,” Ivan Krupko said.
For his part, Khayrullo Bozarov emphasized that Fergana Oblast has plans and intentions to strengthen cooperation with Gomel Oblast. Among the key areas for cooperation, he named tourism, education, youth exchanges and cultural ties.
During the visit, the delegation also toured the memorial Children Victims of War in Krasny Bereg, Zhlobin District. “It is impossible to visit this place without pain in the heart. Here one especially feels the cost of peace, human life and the tragedy endured by the people of Belarus and the entire former Soviet Union. The memory of innocent children who became victims of war evokes deep emotions and highlights the importance of preserving peace,” Khayrullo Bozarov said.
During the visit, the delegation from the Fergana Oblast is also touring various enterprises in the Gomel Oblast and will take part in the Gomel Economic Forum scheduled for 21-22 May.
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