Lukashenko: Vladivostok is geographically distant, but not alien to Belarus
Prospects for the development of co-operation between Belarus and the Primorsky Krai have been discussed today during a meeting between President of Belarus Aleksandr Lukashenko and the Governor of the Russian region, Oleg Kozhemyako
Welcoming the guest, the Head of State noted, “Vladivostok is geographically distant, but it is not alien – as evidenced by our frequent meetings and the agreements we reach as a result of them.”
At the same time, the President stressed, “There is no point in talking a lot about what we (Far East and Belarus) can, what we cannot, what we are capable of, since we know our capabilities in Vladivostok, you know our capabilities in Belarus.”
According to Aleksandr Lukashenko, the issues of interaction with the Primorsky Krai are often raised during his meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin. “I inform him on our meetings, on needs of the Far East (which is actually close to us), on requests of the Primorsky Krai Governor. I even say jokingly that he has already taken everything out, and uses his personal funds to work for the benefit of Russia when there is not enough money in the budget,” he said.
The Head of State thanked Mr. Kozhemyako for fruitful co-operation, “Thank you for coming to us, you feel that your roots are somewhere here, in Belarus. There's no getting away from it. The older we are becoming, the greater we are attracted by our roots. Therefore, we are always glad to see you in Belarus. Come to us.”
Mr. Kozhemyako, in turn, thanked the President for the opportunity to meet, “Of course, partnership with the Republic of Belarus is very important for us. Thanks to our co-operation, the Primorsky Krai residents are happy to consume Belarusian products.”
The Russian guest added that trade turnover in the field of agriculture and industry is growing every year, “It began with 1.5bn [Russian Roubles], but stands at 22.5bn at the moment; this result has been achieved in five years. It is a mutually beneficial process. Our exports to Belarus have also tripled, and Belarusian goods enjoy a great popularity in the region.”
Over this time, the Primorsky Krai has received 929 vehicles produced at MAZ, MTZ and other Belarusian facilities.
