Vitebsk and Pskov regions have begun creating a common information space for Belarus and Russia

Specifically, the editorial offices of the regional newspapers "Vitebskiye Vesti" and "Pskovskaya Pravda", which signed a cooperation agreement in early June as part of the III Forum of Regions of Belarus and Russia, have taken the first step towards media integration. A delegation from "VV" led by Editor-in-Chief Alexander Klitsunov visited Pskov, where they met with representatives of "Pskovskaya Pravda" and the Pskov Region Media Holding. 

During the visit, the parties discussed the specifics of media operation in modern conditions, issues related to newspaper subscriptions and distribution, additional activities and provision of printing services, attraction of sponsors and advertisers, and exchanged experience in promoting their online resources.

It should be noted that certain projects of the Pskov colleagues interested the Vitebsk residents. It is possible that some of the initiatives, adapted to Belarusian realities, will be implemented in the near future. In addition, an agreement was reached on the exchange of materials between "Vitebskiye Vesti" and "Pskovskaya Pravda". And during a sightseeing tour of Pskov, proposals were made to create joint projects in the fields of ecology, tourism, and preservation of historical and cultural heritage.

One can only hope that all that has been planned will be realized, and information cooperation between the regions will develop and gain momentum as actively as trade. For 4 months of 2016, Vitebsk manufacturers increased their product supplies to Pskov by 1.4 times compared to the same period in 2015 and shipped almost $11 million worth of goods to the neighboring region, including wheat, grains, and flour for $6.1 million, and dairy products for $1.9 million. Our confectionery, clothing, footwear, carpets, fabrics, and fiberglass are also popular among Pskov residents.

Elena PETROVA, "Vitebskiye Vesti". Photos by the author.