Kaluga Oblast governor: Industrial cooperation helps Belarus, Russia substitute imports

“We treasure our long-standing good relations with Belarus. There is probably no area where we do not cooperate. Belarus accounts for almost a third of the Kaluga Oblast's trade with the CIS countries. At the same time, we do not focus on trade solely. A successful example of cooperation is Belarusian builders working in Kaluga Oblast. We actively develop this area, with entire neighborhoods and social facilities (kindergartens, schools) being built,” Vladislav Shapsha said.

There are many illustrative examples of industrial cooperation and, in particular with MAZ. “We expect that our company's plans in Kaluga to expand the production of utilities vehicles will also find support from MAZ. Besides, with its help we were able to renew the fleet of public transport in Obninsk. We have plans to purchase more than 330 buses for Kaluga and expect that MAZ will be able to take part in this program. We give priority to gas-powered buses to improve the environmental situation. MAZ has such products,” the governor said.

“Given our experience, there is every opportunity to systematically address the issues of abandoning imported components. We expect to actively help Belarusian companies in this area and receive support in return. Today Kaluga companies produce units, parts and components for BelAZ and MAZ,” Vladislav Shapsha said.

Belarusian-made farm machinery has been working in the fields of Kaluga Oblast for a long time. “Almost all fodder production is carried out with the help of Belarusian machinery. Belarusian machines offer exceptionally good value for money. We count on the practical implementation of projects aimed at developing distribution and service centers for Belarusian equipment in Kaluga Oblast,” the governor said.

He also drew attention to the fact that Belarusian food brands are well-known and loved in Kaluga Oblast. “We are ready for extensive cooperation in this area," Vladislav Shapsha added.