Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 28 July (BelTA) – Political contacts between Belarus and Turkey are in step with business cooperation. Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs Vladimir Makei made the statement during the session of the Belarusian-Turkish Business Council on 28 July, BelTA has learned.

Vladimir Makei said: “Throughout the history of relations between the independent Republic of Belarus and the Republic of Turkey our political and diplomatic contacts have been in step with business interaction, have complemented and helped each other.”

Vladimir Makei underlined that there are no contradictions or problems in the political dialogue between Belarus and Turkey today. “The affinity of social and economic priorities geared towards the development of the real sector of the economy, towards raising living standards of citizens, strengthening positions in the international division of labor creates a good foundation for Belarusian-Turkish trade, economic, and investment cooperation,” noted the official.

In the last ten years Belarus-Turkey trade increased by more than five times to exceed $800 million in 2016. “There is no doubt, it is a good pace. But it is not the limit. We have serious prospects and a considerable potential for further growth. We hope that this year we will be able to reach a trade turnover of $1 billion,” said the Belarusian diplomat.