Bryansk Oblast, Gomel Oblast to double mutual trade

GOMEL, 8 April (BelTA) – Bryansk Oblast and Gomel Oblast are determined to double the mutual trade up to $1 billion in the next few years, Bryansk Oblast Deputy Governor Fyodor Kostyuchenko told reporters on 2 April. Fyodor Kostyuchenko leads the Bryansk Oblast delegation that is taking part in the celebrations of the Belarus-Russia Unity Day, BelTA has learnt.

The trade will be increased by means of joint projects. Bryanskselmash is one of the best examples of the successful bilateral cooperation between the neighboring regions. Bryanskselmash produces grain harvesters and fodder harvesters in cooperation with Gomselmash. “These harvesters are now used in the majority of Russian regions. More than that, these machines are purchased even by Rostov Oblast where our rival – Rostselmash – dominates,” Fyodor Kostyuchenko said.

Gomel Oblast’s major exports to Bryansk Oblast include products from cement, concrete, paper and cardboard, glass, meat and dairy products. “We are working on a project to set up joint milk processing companies. More than that, a joint venture to process potatoes will be started within the next two years. Europe’s biggest plant to produce frozen potatoes is under construction in Bryansk Oblast. We are ready to process potatoes together with Belarus in order to cut down imports. Russia imports 16,000 tonnes of frozen potatoes every year. These projects are crucial for maintaining food security of the country and will greatly benefit the two countries economically,” the Bryansk Oblast Deputy Governor said.

Speaking about relations between residents of the border areas, he noted that Belarusians are the most hospitable nation. “We really love and respect the Belarusian people; we want to be friends with them and expand economic and cultural ties and cooperate in all the areas,” he emphasized.