Business news

MINSK, 25 September (BelTA) – Sweden would like to expand cooperation in economy and tourism with Minsk Oblast, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Sweden to the Republic of Belarus Christina Johannesson said as she met with Minsk Oblast Governor Anatoly Isachenko on 25 September, BelTA has learned.

“Swedish companies and tourists still know little about Belarus. It is a fact. Our major goal is to represent the interests of Sweden, but simultaneously we are gathering as much information as possible about your country and Minsk Oblast, in particular, to enable representatives of Swedish companies to travel across the regions and see the logistics. They show interest in Belarusian companies from various economic sectors, as well as in local health resorts,” Christina Johannesson said.

The 30-day visa waiver allows foreigners to get to know Belarusian regions better. According to the ambassador, when the 5-day visa-free program was in place, Swedish tourists had time only to see Minsk. “Now we can show them other landmarks and places of your country,” she underlined.

In the near future Swedes will be able to learn more about Belarusian companies without leaving their country. “Belarus’ investment opportunities will be presented to Swedish companies in Stockholm. Details of the presentation are in the works. We will determine the format and the scope of participants of the event. The meeting might be held somewhere in late November,” Christina Johannesson said.

Anatoly Isachenko informed the ambassador about projects implemented in Minsk Oblast, namely the construction of the Nezhinsky potash mining and processing factory by Slavkaliy in Lyuban District, establishment of the Belarusian National Biotechnology Corporation in Pukhovichi District, environmental projects, like waste recycling and construction of deironing stations.

A project to set up an entertainment park similar to Disneyland in Minsk Oblast is in the pipeline. “We have found a good place for it on the territory of Minsk Oblast, near the airport. We need $400-500 in investments. We are ready to negotiate this project with all interested parties,” Anatoly Isachenko said.

Christina Johannesson is on a tour across Minsk Oblast on 25-28 September. She is set to visit the region’s major enterprises, including Slutsk Creamery, Belaruskali, Minsk Leather Production Association, and BelAZ. An exposition Sweden As Belarusians See It will open at the Slutsk District Central Library.