Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 22 December (BelTA) – Belarus is in favor of resuming productive trade and economic ties with Ukraine, Aide to Belarus President Alexander Radkov told reporters on 22 December commenting on the results of Alexander Lukashenko’s visit to Kiev, BelTA has learned.

Alexander Radkov stressed that Belarus will be committed to the policy of good-neighborly relations with Ukraine which is more than just a neighboring state. Historically the two nations have been connected by strong friendship. Belarusian people are concerned about the current situation in Ukraine. “During the visit to Kiev Alexander Lukashenko, who is sincerely interested in the improvement of the situation in Ukraine, discussed political, economic, and other issues with his Ukrainian counterpart. It is essential to maintain dialogue at all levels. The Belarusian President shows that this dialogue is always possible,” Alexander Radkov noted.

The negotiations between the two leaders focused on the development of economic ties between the two countries. Alexander Radkov expressed confidence that the cooperation between Belarus and Ukraine has good prospects. “It is clear that after Ukraine finds a way out from the crisis the country will need modernization in many branches of the economy, including in agriculture. Belarus is ready to help the neighboring country and to offer a wide range of equipment. Apart from that, the countries can set up joint ventures to manufacture industrial and agricultural equipment,” the official said. “Joint products can be delivered to the Customs Union and the European Union. But it is essential to reconcile positions in many areas to make it work. These and other issues were discussed during the talks in Kiev.” According to Alexander Radkov, it is very good that Ukraine is also interested in such productive cooperation.

He emphasized that it will be essential to resume the operation of the Belarusian-Ukrainian intergovernmental commission for trade and economic cooperation which has always been a good instrument for promoting mutual interests. “The sooner we resume work, the more economic benefits we will get,” he said.

According to Alexander Radkov, Belarus and Ukraine are currently mulling over the establishment of a joint TV channel.