Belarus is committed to increasing its trade turnover with Russia's Arkhangelsk region. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko made this statement during a meeting with Alexander Tsybulsky, Governor of the Arkhangelsk region of Russia, according to the BELTA news agency.
First Direct Flight
Alexander Tsybulsky's first working visit to Belarus as the governor of the Arkhangelsk region was made via the first direct flight between the two regions.
“A good start. Both for businessmen and for people especially from remote corners of Russia. To come to Belarus and not only get to know Belarus, but also get the appropriate sanatorium and resort procedures. We have a lot of Russians, and we are fighting for the first or second place among Russian citizens in terms of visits to foreign countries. We have something to offer each other in the field of tourism,” Lukashenko said.
Long-standing Partnership
Russia's Arkhangelsk region has been a long-standing partner for Belarus.
However, as the president noted, trade turnover hasn't reached its full potential. "But I believe we're just getting started. Since 2020, there has been a steady increase in mutual trade," Lukashenko added.
Five years ago, the parties aimed to achieve a maximum goods exchange of about $46 million. By 2023, a new record was set, with trade reaching almost $85 million.
At the start of this year, the upward trend continued. Trade turnover increased 2.7 times, reaching $27.5 million. Imports from the Russian region grew even faster, up 4.6 times to nearly $22 million. Belarusian exports also grew, though at a more modest rate of 7.7%.
"But we're determined, and I think we'll catch up soon," Lukashenko said.
