Vitebsk and Pskov regions plan to conclude an agreement on cooperation in the economic sphere

September 30, Vitebsk / Diana Kurilo - BELTA /. The Vitebsk region and the Pskov region of the Russian Federation have prepared a draft agreement on cooperation in the economic and social spheres, the chairman of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee, Alexander Kosinets, told Russian journalists at a press conference today, BELTA correspondent reports. According to Alexander Kosinets, Vitebsk region has established good and business relations with the neighboring regions of Russia - Smolensk and Pskov regions. A cooperation agreement is already in effect with the Smolensk region. In recent months, it has been possible to increase trade with this region, and, as the governor hopes, it will soon reach the previous level of $70 million per year (data for 2008. - BELTA note). About a hundred representative offices of Vitebsk region enterprises operate in the Smolensk region, which contributes to the development of mutual trade. According to preliminary data, trade with the Pskov region in January-September 2009 will amount to only $7 million. The draft agreement provides for its significant increase. In particular, it concerns the creation of joint ventures. One of the first projects could be a joint venture in the field of electrical measuring components. The agro-industrial complex can become a promising area of joint activity, Alexander Kosinets believes. -0-