Lukashenko: It's no secret that we must protect our market

The issues of the Belarusian-Russian agenda on October 28 are in the center of attention of the President of Belarus. The First Deputy Chairman of the Russian Government was welcomed in the Palace of Independence.

The economy is at the forefront. Thanks to clear joint work, the Union State not only withstands the blow of sanctions, but also demonstrates growth. The strategic course is to minimize dependence on imports. This is a corridor of opportunities for governments that are responsible for joint projects.

"There are also such significant, global projects as the financing and production of the Osvey aircraft. For us, this is, one might say, a new story. We are also grateful to you for this. Perhaps, this aircraft will mark the beginning of the era of aircraft manufacturing in Belarus," the Belarusian leader said.

"You are a well-known person in this area, including in industry. I think that your support will be very important for us," the President added.

"There are enough projects. Even more than we agreed on, the amount of money that Russia allocated as loans. Perhaps we will agree that Russia will be interested in our new projects and this financing will be increased. But this will already be the result of your negotiations (with representatives of the Belarusian government - editor's note)," the head of state said.

"We once opened a new era in the production of cars in Belarus. This is also a very important issue. You in Russia understand this matter more than anyone else. I would like to be able to overcome those misunderstandings (or some omissions, one might even say) in connection with import substitution for passenger cars and in our joint market we would produce Belarusian and Russian cars first of all," the President said. "It's no secret that we must protect our market so that it didn't turn out like it was with the West - they left, abandoned everything, saying "we won't work". They left - thank you, let them leave. The competencies and people remain. We have enough raw materials and resources. We will produce and replace their goods with our own," added Alexander Lukashenko.

Following the meeting, Denis Manturov confirmed Russia's readiness to increase funding for joint projects with Belarus.

Industrial cooperation between the countries is actively developing, especially today, when the West is trying to create maximum pressure on Russia and Belarus. The task is to reach a new level of technological sovereignty.