Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 11 July (BelTA) – Belarus’ Minister of Foreign Affairs Vladimir Makei urges diplomats to focus on addressing external economic tasks. The minister made the statement at a seminar for heads of diplomatic missions and consular establishments on 11 July, BelTA has learned.

“In the present-day conditions the issues of foreign economic activity will be in the focus of attention at today’s seminar,” the minister stressed. In his words, the central element of the program will be a working meeting with the government leadership. The meeting will highlight problematic points in advancing the export of goods. Special attention will be turned to the issues of investment attraction, enhancement of their quality and efficient application of funds. Business meetings are envisaged to be held with representatives of ministries and agencies. “Let us take a different look at the situation, rethink it and elaborate new recipes for strengthening our positions on traditional markets and prospects of developing new ones,” said the minister. He also emphasized the importance of developing interregional ties.

Opening the seminar, Vladimir Makei noted that 2015 was a difficult yet productive year for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “We implemented the tasks the head of state set forth for the foreign policy. Unfortunately, progress in the foreign economic activity was less positive,” he noted.

The minister added that the five-year plan for the country’s social and economic development that was adopted at the 5^th Belarusian People’s Congress should become critical in overcoming well-known negative trends. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic missions have a vital role to play in the development and implementation of the relevant measures. We should take well-thought and steadfast steps to answer the purpose,” the minister added.