belarus pakistan bilateral relations celebrated on 30th anniversary, praised by ambassador
Published on: July 1, 2024.
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Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus to Pakistan, Andrei Metelitsa, expressed that the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Belarus and Pakistan will mark a significant milestone for their bilateral ties. “Throughout these three decades, Pakistan and Belarus have maintained exemplary diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations,” he stated.
During an exclusive interview with the APP, Ambassador Andrei Metelitsa emphasized the special significance of this year for Belarus and its relationship with Pakistan. He highlighted that in 2024, Belarus will celebrate the 80th anniversary of its liberation from the Nazi invaders.
The Ambassador mentioned that July 3rd holds great importance as Independence Day of the Republic of Belarus, as it commemorates the liberation of their capital city, Minsk, in 1944. He acknowledged that this occasion presents a potential opportunity to further develop bilateral trade and economic cooperation between Belarus and Pakistan.
Ambassador Andrei Metelitsa shared that both countries can take advantage of this occasion to expand trade in various sectors, including agriculture, textiles, light engineering (tractors and trucks), leather goods, sports equipment, and surgical instruments.
Belarus exports tractors, spare parts, trucks, potash, synthetic yarns, synthetic fibers, tires, machine tools, and baby food (dry mixes) to Pakistan, while Pakistan exports rice, vegetables, fruits, other food products, leather products, fabrics, textiles, sports equipment, surgical instruments, and manicure sets to Belarus.
He also expressed Belarus’ support for Pakistan during difficult times, mentioning their humanitarian aid to assist Pakistani friends affected by devastating floods that occurred from June to October 2022. The Ambassador emphasized Belarus’ sincere interest in strengthening a sustainable and friendly partnership with Pakistan across various mutual interests.
Regarding top leadership connections between the two states, Ambassador Andrei Metelitsa revealed that the President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, and the Prime Minister, Muhhammad Shahbaz Sharif, agreed to intensify bilateral cooperation during meetings in September and October 2022 on the sidelines of the SCO in Samarkand and CICA in Astana. He further added that visits by heads of state and government have proven effective in initiating new joint projects and activities.
To intensify the cooperation, the 6th meeting of the Joint Belarusian-Pakistani Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation was held in January 2023, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus visited Pakistan in May 2023. Ambassador Andrei Metelitsa mentioned that several draft treaties and contracts are currently being negotiated by ministries and companies of both Belarus and Pakistan, including a draft Road Map for trade facilitation over the next three years. These documents are being prepared for signing during the visit of the Belarusian Head of State to Pakistan.
As for a Free Trade Agreement between the two countries, Ambassador Andrei Metelitsa clarified that neither side has proposed such an agreement. However, if a proposal is made, it will be considered for further negotiations and signing.
In conclusion, the Ambassador of Belarus expressed his optimism for continued cooperation and the strengthening of ties between Belarus and Pakistan in various spheres of mutual interest.
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