Golovchenko discussed transport projects with Russian minister

The transport sector is one of the most sensitive topics of Belarusian-Russian co-operation. Cargo and passenger transportation between the two states is extensive and its development is also envisaged by the recently signed Union State programmes. Belarus’ Prime Minister, Roman Golovchenko, has met Russia’s Transport Minister, Vitaly Savelyev, to discuss a wide range of issues aimed at the improvement of the transport sector.

As noted by Mr. Golovchenko, the sphere has a high capital intensity in the country since uninterrupted supplies of goods and movement of citizens depend on transportation. With this in mind, maintaining contacts and dialogue in this direction is extremely important.

“This is especially topical for our country, taking into account international pressure which is absolutely unfair – in particular, the restrictions imposed in the aviation sector. These are abnormal and contradict all norms of international law,” the Belarusian Prime Minister stressed.

As regards the railway sector, Mr. Golovchenko emphasised that the two countries are actively developing co-operation in this direction and, at present, the railways of Belarus and Russia are gradually resuming passenger traffic. “This work should be continued even though the epidemiological situation demonstrates no signs of improvement. As for cargo transportation, Belarus is an exporter. Sustainable logistics to ensure cargo transportation is extremely important for us since two-thirds of our products are sold abroad. The countries like Belarus – which lack access to the sea – should definitely build up efficient and sustainable routes for transportation of goods,” he added.

With this in view, Mr. Golovchenko believes it’s important to discuss with the Russian side the activisation of Belarusian cargo flows through the infrastructure of Russia. He added that, from January-August 2021, 27m tonnes of cargo were transported by rail via Russia – a 104 percent rise on the same period last year.

“Positive dynamics is also maintained within the framework of the intergovernmental agreement – signed earlier this year – on transhipment of Belarusian petroleum products. We are grateful to our Russian colleagues for ensuring practical realisation of this agreement in a short time, while quickly building up an effective scheme – taking into account efficient logistics and economic benefits for all sides. I think we’ll organise our work along other avenues on the basis of this successful example,” Mr. Golovchenko said.

In turn, Russia’s Transport Minister, Vitaly Savelyev, expressed readiness for a detailed discussion of all issues and areas of co-operation, “We have a transport roadmap on the agenda. It is part of a separate project within the Union State. We are progressing at a good pace in terms of realisation of the roadmap, and this concerns exports of Belarusian goods through Russian ports. We’ll discuss this topic as well. We’ll also discuss development of the Russian Federation regarding the infrastructure projects in which Belarus can also be involved.”

In addition, Mr. Savelyev stressed that air traffic is expanding between the two countries: Belavia is increasing the number of its flights to Russia, while seven Russian airlines also service the Belarus-Russia route.

photos: www.belta.by