Role of regions in integration discussed at Forum of Regions of Belarus and Russia

“Like last year, we are holding a session of the inter-parliamentary commission on interregional cooperation of the Council of the Republic and the Federation Council via video conference. Taking into account the pandemic, this is the most reasonable and optimal format of communication. Panel discussions were held on the sidelines of the 8th Forum of Regions of Belarus and Russia to discuss a wide range of issues related to digitalization in various fields, as well as scientific and technical cooperation between the two countries. Today's meeting of the inter-parliamentary commission is another excellent opportunity to openly discuss topical issues of bilateral cooperation and the role of regions in this important process,” Anatoly Isachenko said.

The session will review progress in implementing the final document of the 7th Forum of Regions of Belarus and Russia about the historical legacy of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War. “We will also discuss cooperation prospects between businesses. This is an extremely relevant topic, especially in the context of import substitution, which is an important component of the industrial policy of Belarus and Russia,” the deputy chairman of the Council of the Republic noted. “We will discuss a coordinated policy in environmental conservation and rational use of natural resources. In addition, we need to take a decision on the draft agenda of the 9th session of the inter-parliamentary commission,” he added.

Anatoly Isachenko emphasized that the agenda of the session was quite big and diverse. “I am sure that we will have a meaningful dialogue, exchange of views and ideas that will come in handy during the further integration of Belarus and Russia,” he concluded.

The 8th Forum of Regions of Belarus and Russia kicked off on 29 June and will be running through 1 July. Its main events are held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.