Mezentsev: Major parameters of Union State budget 2024 announced

“We proceed from the fact that the budget should maximally promote economic integration at a new stage, maximally promote the strengthening of union relations of our countries,” Dmitry Mezentsev said.

“The 2024 budget revenues are formed mainly by annual contributions of the member states - this is 94% and non-tax revenues. According to the finance ministries of our countries, contributions to the Union State budget are expected to increase in 2024,” he said.

According to the state secretary, the contributions to the budget of Belarus and Russia will increase by 38%. “This is the first case in the history of the Union State, when the budget is not reduced or remains at the same level, but when it is increased,” he emphasized.

According to him, the revenue part of the budget is planned in the amount of RUB6,568 billion, which is RUB601,5 million up from the current year. The budget will be spent on the programs, projects and activities of the Union State.

“The draft budget preserves funding for a number of socially significant activities,” he added. About 30 events are planned, including in healthcare, education, sports, culture, youth policy and social sector. The document envisages the organization of a cross-border forum of the Union State in Vitebsk Oblast and Pskov Oblast. The Union State plans to take part in financing the events to mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Belarus from Nazi invaders, and also social support for the children of Donbass.

Dmitry Mezentsev added that the final draft budget of the Union State for 2024 will be presented by 20 November.