Meeting with Governor of Russia’s Arkhangelsk Oblast Igor Orlov

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Belarus is interested in stepping up cooperation with Arkhangelsk Oblast, Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko said as he met with Governor of Russia’s Arkhangelsk Oblast Igor Orlov on 30 March.

Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that the Belarusian side views the first visit of the Arkhangelsk Oblast authorities to Belarus as an important step in the enhancement of all-round relations. “I am convinced that together we will manage to ramp up our cooperation, give a new impetus to bilateral contacts at all levels and open up wide opportunities for our manufacturers,” the President emphasized.

Belarus’ trade with Arkhangelsk Oblast is increasingly vibrant. In 2014 the bilateral trade turnover went up more than 15% to exceed $200 million. Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that there is certain imbalance, Belarus has a trade deficit. “I am convinced that this visit will help us find ways to balance our trade,” the Belarusian leader said.

According to the President, there are rather promising areas of cooperation between Belarus and Arkhangelsk Oblast. First of all, it is possible to raise the delivery of Belarusian equipment. Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that Belarusian construction specialists can offer their services and help design modern buildings. Apart from that, Belarus is ready to supply local farm produce and will do its best to strengthen the agricultural industry of Arkhangelsk Oblast. “To cut it short, there are lot of avenues you can be interested in. I am convinced that the sphere of mutual interest is much wider,” the President stressed.

Aleksandr Lukashenko believes that during the visit of the Arkhangelsk Oblast delegation to Belarus the sides will sign agreements which will help make the bilateral ties more productive.

Igor Orlov, in turn, confirmed the interest of Arkhangelsk Oblast in developing all-round cooperation with Belarus.