Putin: Russia, Belarus seek to give impetus to regional ties

Vladimir Putin recalled the meeting of the leaders of the two countries, which took place in Sochi on 14 September. "We agreed to stimulate more actively the mutually beneficial projects between the subjects of the Russian Federation and the regions of the Republic of Belarus, to encourage mutual trips of their heads, and contacts between political, business, public and academic communities,” the Russian president said. “The authorities of Russia and Belarus are interested in adding an impetus to the development of regional ties which are one of the most important components of the truly brotherly, friendly and allied relations between Russia and Belarus built on the principles of equality and respect for each other's interests,” Vladimir Putin said.

The Russian leader noted that Belarus and Russia have not only been consistently deepening multifaceted bilateral ties, but also purposefully implementing the Union State Treaty. “Our countries are also active members of the Eurasian Economic Union. Together we address the issues of defense planning, countering pressing modern challenges and threats, including within the framework of the Collective Security Treaty Organization,” he stressed.

Vladimir Putin added that Russia and Belarus have been working closely together in the fight against the coronavirus epidemic, providing mutual assistance and support. “I have already said that Belarus will become the first state to receive the Russian vaccine Sputnik V against coronavirus infection. Efforts are under way to normalize the quarantine-interrupted transport communication between Russia and Belarus. I hope that this will help to intensify direct interregional exchanges in all areas, will be an important step towards the resumption of full-scale cultural and humanitarian contacts,” he said.

The Russian president wished all the participants a successful forum and a useful exchange of opinions and experience. “I am confident that the reached agreements will contribute to the further strengthening of bilateral strategic cooperation in the interests of brotherly peoples of Russia and Belarus,” he said.