Belarus is ready to expand and strengthen its co-operation with Russia’s Yaroslavl Region to ensure technological sovereignty — as noted by President of Belarus Aleksandr Lukashenko during his today’s meeting with Mikhail Yevrayev, the Governor of the Yaroslavl Region of the Russian Federation
Photo: www.president.gov.by
Welcoming the guest, Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that the Yaroslavl Region holds a unique and special place for Belarus. Beyond economic ties, we are also closely connected through humanitarian aspects. The President highlighted that M. Bogdanovich, a renowned figure in Belarusian literature, pursued his studies in Yaroslavl. Furthermore, Valentina Tereshkova, born in the Yaroslavl Region, has Belarusian roots through her parents.
Returning to the topic of economic co-operation, the Head of State pointed out, “We have been liaising for a long time, probably since the Soviet period. We purchase a lot for our automotive industry from you: both components and what is called the heart of any car. We are ready to continue co-operating with you, not only to expand but also to deepen our interaction in key areas. We are ready to jointly develop new models of our components and Russian engines. This is very important, especially now, as we have set the goal of achieving technological sovereignty in our countries. We must provide ourselves with everything necessary, just as we once did in our large common country.”
As the President noted, both sides are currently cautiously discussing plans to reach $0.5bn in mutual trade, stating, “We can reach this goal if we remain persistent and work towards it.”
Additionally, last year the trade volume between Belarus and the Yaroslavl Region surpassed $370m. From January to September of this year, mutual trade amounted to nearly $270m.
Aleksandr Lukashenko believes that the potential is much greater. “Therefore, industrial co-operation is becoming a top priority. We probably need to set an ambitious target for ourselves — $0.5bn. You know what we are capable of. We are ready to discuss and make decisions on anything that suits you. But keep this in mind: if we make a decision and give a promise, we will definitely fulfil it on time. This is a hallmark of Belarus — reliability.”
The Head of State also pointed out that after Western companies withdrew from our shared market, Belarus and the Yaroslavl Region have made significant strides in replacing imported products, including the largest and most powerful engines, and continue to work together in this field.