The trade turnover between Belarus and the Republic of Mordovia (Russia) doubled over the past three years – as stated by the Head of the Republic of Mordovia, Artem Zdunov, sb.by reports with reference to the First News TV channel
“We are so integrated, so friendly, that it is difficult to separate the economy from culture and education. We are connected by fraternal, close and reliable ties, by history and our common attitude to all aspects, including the events developing in the world. Therefore, strengthening co-operation is an objective process. It does not even depend on us. People are simply being attracted to each other,” Mr. Zdunov said, adding that the trade turnover between Belarus and Mordovia doubled over the past three years, and the growth continues. He also pointed to the significant role of President of Belarus Aleksandr Lukashenko in strengthening the country’s co-operation with the Russian region, “He has a very deep understanding of industrial and agricultural issues. He gets to the heart of the matter.”
Mr. Zdunov also shared his view on what areas of co-operation with Belarus are the most promising. “We are counting on Belarus’ strong mechanical engineering industry and our strong component base. I respect the Belarusian business for the fact that the country has managed to preserve the machine tool industry. Almost everywhere in the former Soviet Union space, this branch was completely eliminated and everyone started switching to foreign tools. In turn, Belarus has preserved it. This is a strong component base for us. Therefore, we enjoy large-scale interaction in everything related to heavy railcar construction, repair facilities, and radio electronics. We are making joint products,” he said and noted the production of elevators, refrigerators, work in the cable industry and in other areas as an example of liaisons.
The head of the Russian region drew attention to the fact that there is much Belarusian equipment in Mordovia, and this is due to its reliability. “We have a common economic space, so there are no preferences in this regard, but we are attracted by reliability. The issue was raised that service and training centres were needed, and we already have a centre where the maintenance, repair and operation of equipment is being taught. When such centres are at hand, when a repair base and spare parts in sufficient quantity are available, then why not buy equipment? Therefore, sales are growing,” he said.
Mr. Zdunov added that co-operation with Belarus continues not only in the sphere of the economy, but also in the field of preserving historical memory. “It’s incredibly nice that we remember our history. Most importantly, we correctly understand what is happening around us now. We have a good project, From the Brest Fortress to the Sursk Frontier, and we want to launch a similar tourist route. It will be interesting both for Belarus and for us. We also visited the military-patriotic camps in the Brest Fortress, the level of their organisation is very high. We will send our children there. We also have equally interesting camps, and we are going to invite Belarusian boys and girls to stay there.”