Meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin

The Belarusian nation will be very glad to learn about an official visit of President of Russia Vladimir Putin to Belarus. Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko made the statement at a meeting after the arrival of the Russian leader.

Aleksandr Lukashenko said: “On my way here I was thinking that we traditionally never have the time to start negotiations in daytime. We always do it till midnight. I think it is okay. You’ve had a hard day today. Complicated negotiations with the king of Bahrain.”

“Pleasant ones,” the Russian leader said.

“Thank god. It means more friends. This is why I welcome you in the Belarusian land that is native to you. The Belarusian nation will be very glad to learn that you’ve come to us. After the [Russian Presidential] election it is one of the first visits. After the visit to the People’s Republic of China, to our friends,” the head of state said.

Aleksandr Lukashenko said: “I think we will prioritize security matters as usual. And tomorrow we will discuss economic affairs together with our colleagues from the governments.”

In turn, Vladimir Putin noted that he had discussed cooperation with Belarus with members of the Russian government prior to the trip to Minsk: “We actually talked about my visit to you. We touched upon virtually all the aspects: manufacturing cooperation, power engineering, agriculture, security matters. Probably half of the government was present. Some will come here and will participate in the negotiations tomorrow. Those, who will not be present, asked me to say hello and wish prosperity to Belarus. A lot has been done by our colleagues recently. With your direct participation and support.”