Minsk, Sochi reaffirm partnership, review advancements in joint projects

The roadmap, signed in October 2025, builds on more than a decade of cooperation between the two cities. It includes over 45 provisions covering various aspects of urban life, from social services and tourism to industry.

Vladimir Kukharev noted that the first results of this dynamic cooperation are already visible. “We see that we are making serious progress across various areas. That is gratifying, because there are no secondary tasks here. All of them are important and meaningful,” he emphasized.

Another topic of discussion was preparations for the upcoming events. “We talked about how we will work within the framework of the Forum of Regions, which will take place in June of this year in our country and the participation of our partners in the traditional Minsk International Economic Forum in September. This landmark event delivers good results and will provide an opportunity for businesses to meet, visit our enterprises, and develop joint projects," Vladimir Kukharev added.

Tourism was also addressed. “We will be working seriously on the development of this sector because the Minsk City Executive Committee has the tasks that need to be resolved. Our colleagues are ready to cooperate with us on this track. This is not just about visiting the city of Sochi. There are many interesting places in Minsk and Belarus that I am sure will appeal to the residents of Sochi," the mayor noted.

Andrey Proshunin echoed this theme. These days, Sochi's tourism potential is being showcased in Minsk at the international travel services trade fair Holidays 2026. “We welcome around 8 million tourists annually. Since 1 January of this year, Sochi has become a federal-level resort. We have completed all planned activities for the hospitality industry. We also have air service with the Republic of Belarus, two flights per week. If demand increases, we will add additional flights,” he said.

The mayor of Sochi noted that on the Day of Unity of the Peoples of Belarus and Russia, he visited the Belarus sanatorium in Sochi. Renovation work is underway on the grounds, and the sanatorium itself is located on the first coastline in a picturesque area with a subtropical climate. Andrey Proshunin emphasized that people love this place and come there to enjoy the sunshine and sea. The mayor of Sochi added that this season, the sanatorium will open its doors to guests, including from Minsk.

He also recalled his previous visit to the Minsk City Technopark. One of the results of the visit was the purchase of motorcycles from the Belarusian motorcycle and bicycle plant. “During my meeting with Vladimir Kukharev, we discussed the use of modular structures in the construction of social facilities, which we saw at the Minsk Technopark. We are gradually working on this task because it is very important for us as a southern city," Andrey Proshunin said.

Minsk and Sochi have been cooperating since 2012. In 2023, the cities signed an agreement on friendly relations, which was followed up by the cooperation roadmap.