President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, at a meeting with the Governor of the Vologda Region, Georgy Filimonov, identified several areas of cooperation with this Russian region, BELTA correspondent reports.
The Head of State noted that the trade turnover between Belarus and the Vologda Region has significantly increased over the past five years. "The trade volumes are decent. However, I asked my assistants to analyze the situation so that I could identify some areas of cooperation with you," the President addressed the Governor of the Vologda Region.
Alexander Lukashenko stated that Belarus is a machine-building country, and therefore exports a lot of machinery. "The Vologda Region purchases various types of our machinery and is familiar with them. Of course, any machinery has certain drawbacks. But we are grateful to you for appreciating our machinery and considering it among the acceptable options in terms of price and quality for your region," the Belarusian leader added.
In this regard, he touched upon the topic of tractor manufacturing: "Tractors are highly valued in your region and in Russia as a whole. According to the information I have, about ten modifications and approximately the same number of special vehicles based on our tractors are produced. We are ready to expand this range and are interested in developing joint production facilities."
According to the President, the Belarusian side is also ready to offer individual financial programs for the Vologda Region and provide for the servicing of all machinery that will operate in the region.
"This should not even be discussed, and I should not even talk about it. We have decided: if we sell machinery somewhere... Listen, who will buy it without service? - the Head of State asked a logical question. - Therefore, at least the basic servicing must be done promptly so that people know where to turn to replace a broken gear or engine."
"The Vologda Region, like all of Russia, the post-Soviet space, and Belarus, is interested in the supply of elevators, because there is a massive replacement of elevators underway. We are ready to work with you," Alexander Lukashenko outlined another area.
The Head of State assured the governor that Belarus is also ready to cooperate with the Vologda region in the sphere of food. "I know that you are already successful in this regard, but still, the region is northern (relatively northern). Perhaps you need some food products. Just say the word – we are ready to cooperate with you," stated Alexander Lukashenko.
Among the areas of cooperation, the President named construction. "You know our capabilities, we are ready to work with you not only in construction but also in finishing works, and primarily in providing design services. We have a very powerful sector that designs both industrial enterprises, public buildings, and housing. If you have a need, we are ready to work with you in this direction," he noted.
The Belarusian leader also mentioned humanitarian cooperation, drawing attention to the fact that the Vologda region does a lot to protect historical memory. "You know our policy in Belarus. We do not demolish monuments – we build them," emphasized Alexander Lukashenko. "And giant monuments like the 'Brest Fortress', 'Khatyn', 'Ola', and many, many memorials, you can always come and visit. And not only these. Your people can also learn about the history of Belarus. We are always ready to welcome you."
Alexander Lukashenko recalled that a monument to the graduates of the Lepel and Cherepovets military schools, including Heroes of the Soviet Union, was opened in Cherepovets. Georgy Filimonov supported this initiative and took part in its opening. "We highly value the monument you opened. Our people, when visiting, and tourists come to this monument. We need to draw the attention of Belarusians to this once again," stated the President.
In January-June of this year, the trade turnover between Belarus and the Vologda region amounted to $316.4 million (100.9% compared to the same period last year). In general, over the past few years, the indicator has shown growth: if in 2020 the trade turnover was $335 million, then in 2024 the figure of mutual trade reached $678.1 million.
The basis of Belarusian exports included liquid crystal devices, lasers, tractors and semi-trailers, parts and accessories for cars and tractors, nitrogen fertilizers, and others. From the Vologda region to Belarus, flat-rolled products made of various types of steel, wire, copper and copper alloys, ferrous metal waste and scrap, as well as other types of products were mainly supplied.