Lukashenko: Belarus is ready to participate in the modernization of key sectors of the Russian economy

Belarus is ready to participate in the modernization of key sectors of the Russian economy. This is stated in the welcome address of the head of the Belarusian state, Alexander Lukashenko, to the participants of the X Forum of Regions of Belarus and Russia, which is taking place in Ufa, according to BELTA.

Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that the economy is the basis of any social processes and underlies cooperation. Based solely on the results of previous regional forums, commercial contracts totaling almost $5 billion have been signed. "Yes, the trade statistics figures are pleasing. But it is too early to rest on our laurels. I am confident that we are capable of more," the head of state noted. "It is necessary to increase the competitiveness of the two countries by deepening industrial cooperation, to solve issues of specialization, import substitution, primarily in microelectronics and other high-tech industries. To maximally develop interregional trade and develop transport and logistics corridors, to find additional drivers for integration processes."

"Belarus is ready to participate in the modernization of key sectors of the Russian economy and the creation of joint ventures. We have many interesting and in-demand proposals for the regions of Russia in the fields of agriculture, construction, mechanical engineering, woodworking, equipment supply, component base formation, food and light industry, space exploration, and pharmaceuticals," said Alexander Lukashenko.

According to him, science, culture, and education are also important components of Belarusian-Russian interaction.

There are 81 agreements on trade, economic, scientific, technical, and cultural cooperation between the Republic of Belarus and 73 regions of the Russian Federation.

"In essence, the forum has become a productive dialogue platform where decisions necessary for the peoples of the two countries are made. It is important that representatives from various spheres – politicians, business, culture, science – are at the forefront of developing these decisions. This is precisely the people's diplomacy that is proving its effectiveness. And the role of interregional cooperation in such processes is rapidly increasing. In general, our positions remain unchanged – no barriers or restrictions in interaction. This is the basic principle of partnership. Disputed issues, if they arise, should be resolved promptly and constructively," the Belarusian leader summarized.

Source: belta.by