CIS informal summit

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko attended the traditional informal CIS summit near St. Petersburg.

Russian President Vladimir Putin opened the summit as his country is completing its chairmanship in the CIS this year and handing over the baton over to Tajikistan.

“I would like to thank you for gathering here in Leningrad Oblast to compare notes on what was done in the outgoing year within the framework of the CIS and what is to be done in the near future,” the Russian leader said.

However, before making a welcoming speech, Vladimir Putin expressed condolences on behalf of the leaders of the CIS countries over the crash of an Azerbaijani airplane in Kazakhstan.

“Before we begin our work, unfortunately, I must say a few words about the tragedy that occurred in Aktau. As we have just discussed with you, I would like to express condolences on our behalf to the families of the victims and all those injured. Let's hope for their recovery,” the Russian President said. “I also spoke with Ilham Aliyev this morning, who was almost there but had to turn around and return to Baku. I am sure a thorough investigation will be conducted. We will coordinate the work of our special and aviation services on all issues related to this tragedy”.

Speaking about the development of integration in the CIS, the head of state pointed out that Russia's trade with the CIS members rose by 10.6% in January-October and exceeded $93 billion. According to him, macroeconomic indicators in the CIS countries have also improved significantly. Thus, in 2024, the total GDP in the CIS countries is forecast to increase by 4.7%. This is higher than the global average.

“Cooperation between the CIS countries in the currency and financial markets is expanding. Our own independent payment systems and settlement instruments are increasingly being used to service mutual economic transactions. The share of national currencies in settlements on commercial transactions between the CIS members exceeds 85%,” the Russian President said.

During the summit, Vladimir Putin recalled that next year marks the landmark anniversary - the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory. In this connection, he invited his colleagues to the anniversary celebrations in Moscow on 9 May.

“I am convinced that the deepening of partnership within the CIS in various areas meets the fundamental interests of the peoples of our countries. I am confident that we will continue to work together to address the challenges of socio-economic development and to strengthen stability and security,” the Russian leader concluded.