President of Belarus arrives in Uzbekistan for official visit

President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko has arrived in Uzbekistan for an official visit. In Tashkent, the leaders of the two countries will hold meetings in a narrow and expanded format. The negotiation program is rich. It is expected that attention will be paid to trade and economic cooperation, development of production cooperation and organization of assembly enterprises for the production of equipment in demand in Uzbekistan.

The Belarusian leader went from the airport to Mustakillik Square. All official delegations visit this place. Now there is a basket of flowers from the President of Belarus at the foot of the monument.

Another symbolic part of the visit's program: Alexander Lukashenko paid tribute to the memory of former Uzbek President Islam Karimov. A monument was raised in his honor in Tashkent.

The main events will be held tomorrow. The focus will be on cooperation in a number of areas - from industry and agriculture to the humanitarian sphere and tourism. Development of regional cooperation will also be discussed as an effective tool for building up trade and economic ties. It is planned that the presidents will exchange views on topical issues of the regional and international agenda. After the talks a package of bilateral documents will be signed.

Last year the trade turnover between the countries increased more than twice as compared to the previous year and amounted to about $ 130 million. The growth trend remains: within 6 months of 2018 Belarus and Uzbekistan have already reached the turnover of 100 million. The basis of our export is tractors, as well as components for various machines. We buy mainly fruit, cotton yarn and knitwear.

Two hours ago a joint forum of business and interregional cooperation with participation of business circles and heads of regions of the two countries started in Tashkent. According to preliminary estimates, the total portfolio of contracts can reach $ 100 million. About fifty documents have already been signed. Minsk Tractor Plant signed contracts worth 15 million dollars during the forum. Also, the plant is discussing with local partners the creation of an assembly production of caterpillar machinery. By the way, there are already three assembly plants of Belarusian equipment in Uzbekistan.

The day after tomorrow more than 150 Belarusian enterprises will take part in the exhibition Made in Belarus in Tashkent.