Sochi hosted a meeting between Alexander Lukashenko and Vladimir Putin. The economy, joint projects, as well as the response to external pressure and sanctions policy became the subjects of the talks between the Presidents. The meeting lasted for more than five hours on the first negotiating day. And on the next day the two leaders continued communication already in an informal setting. The Presidents always have something to discuss. As it became known, the issue of the transfer of the second tranche of the state credit has been finally settled.
They also reached an agreement on opening new Belavia flights to Russian cities. This is very convenient. The countries have many joint projects, which will simplify logistics for businessmen. Mutual trade turnover is showing growth, and in 2021 the countries plan to exceed the pre-pandemic volumes of more than 35 billion dollars. On the main negotiation day, the leaders discussed the integration agenda. The heads of states agree that this process should move forward gradually, in accordance with the interests of both parties.
The experts from both Russia and Belarus, who closely followed the negotiations, noted that the Presidents have common positions on most issues, including the inadequate response of the West to the Ryanair incident. The leaders called it "an outburst of emotions". Our country was guided by international law, did everything for the passengers' safety and offered an international investigation.
Just a year ago, the words is respect of Belavia were quite different. When COVID-19 forced many countries around the world to close in an instant, leaving their citizens alone, clearly making it clear that they were not welcome at home, the Belarusian company offered its help. People from different countries were welcomed on board, without distinguishing between nationals and strangers.
Everyone understands: we have been and will be tested for our strength. Belarus and Russia will still have to prove the validity of their partnership. And our allies are ready for that.












