Andreichenko: Belarus, Palestine have many areas for co-operation

Belarus and Palestine have spheres to co-operate in, including trade and economy, education and healthcare, as well mutual support in the international arena – as noted by the Chairman of the House of Representatives of Belarus’ National Assembly, Vladimir Andreichenko, on meeting the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Palestine to the Republic of Belarus, Ahmed Mohammed al-Madbuh

“Belarus has great sympathy for the State of Palestine, and I think people in Palestine also know about Belarus as a peaceful and friendly state. Speaking of our trade and economic co-operation, it stands at $6m at present, and this is not much. I think we need to progress further. I think you have already explored the possibilities of Belarus, visiting the country’s regions, ministries and enterprises,” Mr. Andreichenko noted.

According to the Chairman of the House of Representatives, it is important to establish more active co-operation between business circles. In this regard, Belarus relies on the assistance of the Palestinian Ambassador. “Our chambers of commerce and industry should meet, and more visits of business circles to Belarus should be organised – so that Palestinian businesses can explore the possibilities and create a more significant tool for our interaction in the near future. We are talking about the creation of a joint intergovernmental commission that would consider and resolve the issues of trade, economic, humanitarian co-operation, as well those in the field of healthcare. At least, there is a need for it,” he said.

As regards education, Mr. Andreichenko informed that, in 2021-2022, thirty-six students from Palestine studied in Belarus, mainly at medical institutions. As the Education Minister noted, there is an interest in establishing contacts with educational institutions in Palestine. “As far as I am informed, eight Belarusian higher educational institutions have sent a number of proposals with an aim of establishing contacts, exchanging work experience and attracting even more students from Palestine to Belarus. We are addressing with a request to consider this issue,” he noted.

Mr. Andreichenko added, “We have established a serious base in healthcare. Scientific and practical centres work, and they have good specialists and equipment. I think this is an important direction. We are interested in treating more foreigners in Belarus and will also appreciate the exchange of experience, good and interesting practice. Moreover, I should admit that the present trade turnover is mostly formed on the account of medical supplies from Palestine to Belarus.”