Vitebsk region at the Second Forum of Regions of Belarus and Ukraine

THE II FORUM OF REGIONS OF BELARUS AND UKRAINE IS HELD ON OCTOBER 3-4 IN ZHYTOMYR, UKRAINE.

Belarus is interested in developing cooperation with Ukraine in industry, agriculture, and many other areas. This was stated during a meeting of the heads of regions of Ukraine and Belarus on October 3 in Zhytomyr. The meeting was attended by the heads of all regions of the two neighboring countries, including the Vitebsk region.

The meeting was chaired by Belarusian Deputy Prime Minister Igor Lyashenko. He emphasized that Ukraine is an important economic partner for our country. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, this is evidenced by the fact that the presidents of both countries will attend the opening of the Second Forum of Regions of Belarus and Ukraine.

"This is a unique dialogue platform," said Igor Lyashenko. "We see the effectiveness of the forum and note the expansion of economic interaction at the regional level and the enrichment of horizontal contacts. Ukraine remains an important economic partner for Belarus, with whom trade and cooperation ties are maintained in various sectors. We complement each other in industry and agriculture, and we have common interests in the transport and logistics sector."

Over the past three years, trade between the countries has increased by one and a half times in total, and in 2018 it amounted to $5.5 billion. "The potential for economic cooperation between our countries is far from exhausted. We are interested in further developing cooperation ties in industry and agriculture," emphasized Igor Lyashenko.

The Deputy Prime Minister also stated that stable trade relations exist at the interregional level.

"If the Ukrainian side so wishes, we are ready to increase cooperation in the field of road construction. We guarantee European quality, compliance with all technologies and standards," said Igor Lyashenko.

The Belarusian side is also interested in Ukraine's experience in decentralizing regional financing. "We are ready to actively engage in regional infrastructure projects. We really need your advice and guidance on this path. We are ready to discuss cooperation issues with our Ukrainian partners in detail," the Deputy Prime Minister summarized.

Based on materials from BELTA. 

Photos: oda.zht.gov.ua, mlyn.by, www.belta.by