President Lukashenko highlighted that Belarus and Azerbaijan are actively implementing a roadmap for developing bilateral cooperation. An upcoming meeting of the intergovernmental commission in Minsk will address updates to this roadmap based on new agreements made during the talks.
Lukashenko pointed out that some projects have become outdated and emphasized the need to move from planning to execution for many initiatives. The discussions were comprehensive, covering various sectors including the joint production of MTZ equipment, MAZ vehicles, and fire-fighting equipment. He also mentioned the production of elevator equipment, crucial for replacing old Soviet-era elevators, where Belarus is prepared to collaborate with Azerbaijan.
Azerbaijan has shown interest in producing railway rolling stock, such as platforms and tank cars, an area where Belarus can provide significant expertise. Another vital area of cooperation is agriculture. Belarus is prepared to supply elite cattle breeds, assist in building agro-towns and infrastructure, develop dairy complexes, and support the growth of farming enterprises, particularly in regions needing revitalization.
Traditional cooperation between Belarus and Azerbaijan includes the supply of timber. Belarus is now ready to take this a step further by constructing wooden houses on Azerbaijan’s rejuvenated lands.
The implementation of the roadmap will be reviewed by both leaders in November, coinciding with an upcoming UN climate change conference in Baku, which President Lukashenko plans to attend.
In 2023, the trade turnover between Belarus and Azerbaijan exceeded $400 million. Both sides are optimistic about eventually reaching a $1 billion trade turnover, acknowledging that it might be achieved in stages. The initial goal is to hit $500 million within a year to a year and a half, with a longer-term target of $1 billion.
President Lukashenko emphasized the importance of shifting away from purchasing goods from unfriendly countries in favor of products made in Azerbaijan, a gesture that will be reciprocated by Azerbaijan. He also extended an invitation to President Aliyev to visit Belarus at any convenient time to continue their bilateral dialogue.
