Lukashenko on the development of relations with Slovakia: we are ready for deeper cooperation

06/07/20200 views

Belarus is ready for deeper cooperation with Slovakia. This was stated by the President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, at a meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Slovakia to Belarus, Jozef Migash, as reported by a BELTA correspondent.

The Head of State noted that very good relations are developing between the two countries, and at the same time, there is still great potential for the development of trade and economic cooperation. "You must agree, the main indicator – a trade turnover of $220 million – is not much at all," he said. "But if you consider that there was no trade turnover at all at one time, this growth is significant. But we can do more, we are ready to cooperate in the closest possible way with Slovakia, we are ready to learn from you in many areas (and there is much to learn from you, from sports to industrial development issues). We are ready for deeper cooperation."

Jozef Migash during the meeting

The President noted Jozef Migash's experience in various fields and proposed continuing cooperation in the future. "In your life, you have been not only a public figure but also a progressive businessman," said Alexander Lukashenko. "I think we can do a lot, including with your help. We are open to this cooperation. If you personally have any proposals, if you continue to link your life with business and production, know that there will be a place in Belarus for the creation and development of the direction you deem necessary."

Trade and economic cooperation between Belarus and Slovakia is developing steadily. By the end of 2019, trade turnover reached $226 million, an increase of almost 7% compared to 2018, including exports of $114 million and imports of $112 million. According to data for January-April of this year, trade turnover amounted to $63.4 million. Belarus mainly exports medical devices and instruments, ferrous metal wire, oil products, polyamides, and tractors to Slovakia. Passenger cars and spare parts for them, corn, internal combustion engines, and food products are imported from Slovakia.

Vladimir Makei and Jozef Migash

In 2019, Belarus significantly increased its export of services to Slovakia, mainly transport and computer services, to $17.7 million, which is 18.9% more than in 2018.

As of January 1 of the current year, the volume of investments in the Belarusian economy amounted to $5 million, including direct investments of $4.6 million. There are 11 joint ventures and 7 foreign enterprises with Slovak capital operating in the country.