Meeting with EIB Vice President Alexander Stubb

Belarus is interested in the development of cooperation with the European Investment Bank (EIB) and projects in various fields, Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko said as he met with EIB Vice President Alexander Stubb on 21 November.

“In fact, the meeting with you marks a new stage in the development of relations with the European Investment Bank. This is a milestone. We have overcome a few barriers, there was misunderstanding from both sides, especially from the western side. Europe and the entire western world have recently made sure that they can work with Belarus, that Belarus is a reliable partner, especially in trade, economic and financial relations,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.

The Belarusian President remarked that the signing of agreements with the EIB to finance projects aimed at Belarus’ development proves that misunderstanding between the sides no longer exists.

The head of state said that Belarus is now working with the bank on the loans to the tune of about €500 million. He stressed that this is a big amount and the terms are acceptable for the country. “We thoroughly select investment projects. It is very important for us that you support projects for our people - projects in housing, water disposal and supply, development of infrastructure and roads. And we will be responsible partners in this regard,” the Belarusian leader said.

Aleksandr Lukashenko asked Alexander Stubb for assistance in the development of cooperation between Belarus and Finland because the EIB vice president occupied various high posts in that country. “I would like you to help us establish close relations with Finland. This country is virtually of the same size as Belarus. It has advanced technologies,” the President remarked. He also pointed out the similarity of the countries’ economies and the importance of bolstering cooperation in technology.