Events

MINSK, 5 June (BelTA) – MPs plan to promote cooperation between Belarus and the Czech Republic in high technology, Sergei Rakhmanov, Chairman of the International Affairs and National Security Committee of the Council of the Republic of the Belarusian Parliament, told reporters following the meeting with a delegation of the Senate of the Czech Parliament, BelTA has learned.

During the meeting the MPs outlined the promising areas of cooperation, among them are pharmaceuticals and high technology. “It is a key issue for both countries as it ensures their economic and technological security,” Sergei Rakhmanov said.

MPs will try not to miss opportunities and make sure the dynamics of bilateral relations is irreversible. The two sides agreed to maintain regular contacts, work in a consistent format in order to strengthen relations in all areas, taking into account the national interests and the interests of the EAEU and the EU. “We will find such formats of cooperation which will help align the positions of not only our countries but also the unions, of which we are members,” Sergei Rakhmanov said.

The head of the delegation, Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defense and Security Frantisek Bublan lauded Belarus’ successes in IT and stressed that cooperation between Belarus and the Czech Republic in this area is not just possible but necessary. He is convinced that the MPs of the two countries should not limit themselves to political contacts only. There is an intention to intensify ties in trade and economy (including in part of support for joint ventures) and also humanitarian cooperation, to promote cultural exchanges.

The Czech MPs also met with the members of the working group for cooperation with the Czech Parliament at the National Assembly and discussed thoroughly the prospects for cooperation.

The Czech Republic is among Belarus’ major trading partners. In 2017 the bilateral merchandise trade rose by 4.8% to total $290.2 million.