Thus, Putin called it “a rarity” that the leaders of states meet face to face, while Lukashenko expressed the hope that they will continue “serious negotiations in ordinary clothes” in the future.
The presidents, in particular, discussed economic issues, vaccine production and roadmaps.
30 roadmaps
Earlier, Putin and Lukashenko outlined about 30 areas for the development of cooperation, roadmaps. Representatives of the governments of the two countries worked on them.
“Indeed, the governments have done a lot. Both Russia and Belarus … There may be 6-7 roadmaps left, on which our governments are working. All the rest are, in principle, ready for signing,” Lukashenko said.
Economy
During the meeting, Lukashenko thanked Putin for supporting the Belarusian economy.
He argues that at least half of Belarus’ trade turnover is tied to Russia, and Belarus is Russia’s fourth most important trading partner. The country consumes a lot of Russian components and raw materials.
“You should know that we have not thrown money away. We are investing in the final production, purchasing a huge amount of raw materials and components from Russia,” the head of Belarus said.
Vaccines and coronavirus
Lukashenko praised Russia for producing vaccines.
“You already have three registered vaccines. And more in development. We are also going this way. By the fall we will receive our vaccine, we have specialists. But now we are actively purchasing from you. Of the Russian Federation, “the Belarusian president said, calling the Russian vaccine” the best in the world. “
He also thanked Putin for opening railway traffic between the two countries despite the coronavirus pandemic.
“I think the moment is not far off when we will open car traffic. We have no problems,” Lukashenka added.
Putin on cooperation between the two countries
“The main thing is joint work and cooperation in the real sector of the economy. Indeed, during the epidemic, our trade fell slightly, by about 15%. But it still amounted to $ 28.5 billion. This is a very significant figure,” he said.
Putin also added that he is “pleased to state” that the level of interaction, strategic partnership, alliance with Belarus is being confirmed.
“The presidents of Belarus and Russia continued to communicate while skiing. They also went snowmobiling, after which the heads of state were expected to have a joint lunch,” the press service of Lukashenka said.
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