Vice premier: Belarus-Russia regional forums yield $7bn

Yuri Shuleiko emphasized that bilateral regional economic and cultural ties have been established among CIS member states. "We have already held 11 Forums of Regions of Belarus and Russia, with a total economic impact estimated at $7 billion. In February 2024, the second Belarus-Uzbekistan Forum of Regions took place in Tashkent, bringing together more than 300 representatives from ministries, industries, associations, chambers of commerce, administrations, and business communities from both countries. Over 20 agreements and contracts were signed, amounting to approximately $80 million," he said.

Yuri Shuleiko also highlighted that Belarus concluded more than 200 agreements for regional cooperation with CIS countries, covering various sectors.

"The activation of interregional cooperation is facilitated by the work of the Council on Interregional and Cross-Border Cooperation of CIS member states, through which we collectively address the issues of sustainable economic development in the regions and border areas. Itergovernmental commissions on economic cooperation also play a significant role in cooperation intensification. I am confident that today we will bring a multilateral interaction between the regions of CIS countries to the CIS agenda," the deputy prime minister stated.

Yuri Shuleiko invited representatives from all CIS countries to visit the INNOPROM exhibition, which will take place in Minsk on 29 September - 1 October. "I am sure that everyone will find something valuable at this exhibition, make new contacts and explore supply opportunities," he added.