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MINSK, 25 May (BelTA) – Belarus is ready to take part in the extraction of commercial minerals in Indonesia. Prime Minister of Belarus Andrei Kobyakov made the statement as he met with Speaker of the Regional Representative Council of the People's Consultative Assembly of Indonesia Irman Gusman on 25 May, BelTA has learned.

Belarus considers Indonesia a promising partner in Southeast Asia, including in matters of economy and trade, noted the Prime Minister. Belarus-Indonesia trade has increased from $1.8 million in 1995 to $215 million in 2014. But the figure is way below the potential that Indonesia and Belarus possess, stated Andrei Kobyakov. He suggested moving from trade to deeper investment, scientific, and technical cooperation.

Joint ventures and projects will allow using advantages of each side together in addition to producing more profits, the Belarusian head of government was convinced. “In particular, we see prospects for creating an outsourcing company by OAO BelAZ and for joint participation in the extraction of commercial minerals in Indonesia. Negotiations on selling MAZ passenger vehicles and trucks are underway,” said Andrei Kobyakov.

Concrete projects are being implemented in Indonesia together with partners. Support of the Indonesian government is crucial for their development, said the Prime Minister of Belarus.

Speaking about cooperation between the academies of sciences of Belarus and Indonesia, Andrei Kobyakov mentioned promising cooperation avenues such as instrument making, organic chemistry, materials science, and powder metallurgy. “We are ready to train highly qualified scientific personnel for Indonesia, organize mutual on-the-job training for the professions the Indonesian side is interested in,” added the Prime Minister.

Andrei Kobyakov remarked that bilateral relations, economic and political contacts have been developing fast recently. “A high level of political and economic dialogue has been secured. The atmosphere of trust in relations represents a good foundation for the future prospective development of cooperation between our countries,” said the Belarusian head of government.

“In politics we enjoy complete understanding, mutual support in the international scene,” he stressed. The Prime Minister pointed out that in modern conditions only a dialogue, constructive and respectful cooperation can de-escalate tensions and ensure peace and security.

The Belarusian head of government said he was confident that Belarus-Indonesia friendship should be promoted at the level of young people, through cultural ties. It will bolster mutual understanding, he said. The accumulated experience indicates opportunities for expanding cooperation, which, thanks to joint efforts, is getting filled with more profound content and long-term prospects. The solid foundation laid down by the presidents of Belarus and Indonesia is available for it, summed up Andrei Kobyakov.

In turn, Irman Gusman mentioned the rapid advancement of bilateral relations in various areas. “Nevertheless, we should work harder together in order to advance our interaction to a brand new level,” said the Speaker.