Cooperation between Smolensk and Vitebsk oblasts to benefit local residents

SMOLENSK, 21 October (BelTA) – The cooperation between the Smolensk and Vitebsk oblasts is mutually beneficial for the residents of both the regions, Smolensk Oblast Governor Sergei Antufiev said at a ceremony to sign an action plan on trade, economic, sci-tech, humanitarian and cultural cooperation between Smolensk Oblast of Russia and Vitebsk Oblast of Belarus for 2011-2012, BelTA has learnt. “It is obvious for Smolensk Oblast that the cooperation and close links between our regions are mutually beneficial. Our Belarusian brothers and we do not have disagreements on how to develop Belarus-Russia relations: we will live like two brethren peoples and work towards our common goal – the well-being of our peoples,” the Smolensk Oblast Governor said. Vitebsk Oblast Governor Alexander Kosinets added that economic interests of the two regions extend to the manufacturing industry, power engineering, agriculture, construction, science and culture. “We have common interests and cooperation prospects virtually everywhere,” he said. The action plan includes hundreds of events, most of which aim to promote trade and economic relations. A working meeting will be held by the Igrushki shopping center and its affiliate Dochki-Synochki (Smolensk) and the Vitebsk fruit and vegetable plant to explore cooperation prospects and discuss the supplies of baby foods. The administrations of the two regions are determined to encourage the business activity of local economic operators and hold joint exhibitions and fairs. Construction is another promising cooperation avenue. The action plan envisages the construction of housing, social and cultural facilities in Smolensk Oblast by Vitebsk Oblast construction companies. Vitebsk agricultural companies will continue helping Smolensk Oblast farmers with harvesting.

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