Kochanova: Belarus and Russia get stronger, find new ways for development

“One of the key components in the development of Belarusian-Russian relations is interaction at the regional level. In this respect the Forum of Regions of Belarus and Russia is a unique venue. It has not only become an effective platform for large-scale interregional cooperation between our countries but also continues gaining momentum,” said Natalya Kochanova. “The results of the 9th Forum of Regions of Belarus and Russia which is taking place these days can be a vivid example of it. The forum comprises over 1,000 participants, about 60 cooperation agreements and contracts worth over Br2.5 billion, or RUB65 billion. These results are an absolute record in the history of the forums,” she added.

According to the speaker, The Memory Train, another landmark joint project of the Council of the Republic and the Federation Council, is underway. “During the trip, 200 school students from our countries not only study the history of the Great Patriotic War but also get familiar with the traditions and everyday life of the Belarusians and Russians, establish friendly relations. We hope that this good start will enrich traditions of the Union State. Life itself shows that union integration is the most effective answer to all ill-wishers. Expanding bilateral ties between Belarus and Russia more than ever meets the fundamental interests of the Belarusian and Russian peoples today. We are getting stronger and we are opening new windows of opportunity for development,” she said.