Russia’s Smolensk, Vitebsk actively maintain close ties, including in energy sector

The event is taking place in Vitebsk. “The commission is set to consider the issues of interregional cross-border cooperation between Smolensk Oblast and Vitebsk Oblast. This cooperation is actively growing, including in the energy sector. Thus, today Belgazstroy specialists are actively involved in programs to extend gas supply networks in Smolensk Oblast. Five contracts worth RUB205 million have already been concluded. This project will build 40 kilometers of gas networks and connect 550 households. Moreover, we plan to review the progress in the Union State programs in energy sector. We will also give consideration to the initiative of Tyumen Oblast and the Belarusian Energy Ministry (in charge of cooperation with this region in Belarus) to hold a patriotic festival dedicated to Hero of the Soviet Union, defender of the Brest Fortress Andrei Kizhevatov and to recommend this event for financing from the Union State budget. We also plan to visit the power and gas facilities of Vitebsk,” Aleksei Kushnarenko said.

He also pointed out that the topics on the agenda are important for both Belarus and Russia. “The topic of energy is always sensitive for both countries. However, today we note that all the agreements in this sector are being implemented. Currently, Belarus has a valid contract for natural gas supply until 2025, which allows the country's economy to develop steadily under the current conditions,” he added.