Ipatov: Nicaragua is Belarus’ important partner in political, trade and economic affairs

The co-operation between Belarus and Nicaragua has produced results already – as noted by the Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly, Vadim Ipatov, during a video conference meeting with members of the working groups on co-operation between the parliaments of the Republic of Belarus and the Republic of Nicaragua

“Interparliamentary co-operation is one of the Parliament’s main activities. If we strive to develop trade and economic relations and maintain the international agenda, then we should definitely interact with foreign parliaments. In this regard, we have established good relations with the Pan-African Parliament, the Parliament of Latin America (Parlatino), as well as with the parliaments of Southeast Asia. The current meeting is of great importance because it continues this course,” Mr. Ipatov addressed the meeting participants.

According to the parliamentarian, the visit of the First Deputy Chairman of the National Assembly of the Republic of Nicaragua to Belarus last year contributed to the development of bilateral ties. “A group of friendship was created in the National Assembly of Nicaragua following that visit. In addition, a similar group was formed in our Parliament. Today we have the opportunity to communicate with foreign colleagues, although through modern information technologies, but still directly discuss the most important issues for our co-operation,” he noted.

Mr. Ipatov added that the bilateral liaisons had produced concrete results already, “Nicaragua is an important partner in political, trade and economic spheres. This year, thanks to the actions of our parliaments and governments, the Development Bank has concluded a loan agreement with Nicaragua’s Finance Ministry. A loan of about $85m has been allocated, and around 700 units of Belarusian equipment have been supplied. These important economic steps promote the activity of our enterprises. In addition, this is an opportunity to demonstrate the high level of technical development of Belarus and show what kind of equipment it can provide its partners with.”

The meeting participants also discussed the development of inter-parliamentary relations between the countries, mutual support for actions on international platforms, expansion of co-operation, as well as the implementation of agreements reached in the trade and economic field.