Belarus, Latvia urged to make maximum use of advantages of Customs Union, EU

DAUGAVPILS, 17 May (BelTA) – The town twinning movement of Belarus and Latvia should make maximum use of the advantages of the Customs Union and the European Union, Minsk Oblast Governor Boris Batura, who is also the head of the public organization “Twin Towns” said at the second Latvian-Belarusian Forum of Twin Towns that opened in Daugavpils on 17 May, BelTA learned.

The Governor stressed that Latvia and Belarus are young states that have to punch their way in fierce competition.

“Both countries badly need modernization and foreign investment, depend heavily on transit flows. In addition, they are similar in natural climatic conditions. Due to the historical past there is no language barrier and deep mentality differences between our people,” said Boris Batura.

“Today we have a unique opportunity for closer economic cooperation. Latvia is a member of the European Union. Belarus is a member of the Customs Union and the Single Economic Space, which includes Russia and Kazakhstan. Belarus enjoys friendly relations with China and is in dynamic contact with other Asian countries, such as India, Singapore, Indonesia,” said the Governor. Mr Boris Batura noted that “these are trump cards and they should be used most effectively.” “Acting together, we become even more attractive to potential investors, both domestic and foreign ones,” he said.

“The town twinning movement should do its part in these big processes and make a decent contribution to strengthening our common economic potential. For this we should display our true interest in cooperation, map out interesting projects and search for reliable partners. We need to focus all our efforts and resources on the most promising areas,” the Governor said.

In his words, today it is important to set up small flexible companies, with the total number of workers not exceeding 50-60, to produce higher-value added products. “Minsk Oblast is working hard on it. By late 2013 every district is expected to have at least ten companies of the kind,” Boris Batura stressed. “You are welcome to pitch in. You will not regret it,” Boris Batura addressed those present.

According to him, it is vital to develop the manufacturing sector and stay committed to the path of innovative development. “We can successfully cooperate in such areas as precision and instrument engineering, microelectronics, telecommunications, alternative energy, farm tourism, pharmaceutics and others. Keeping in mind food and portable water shortages in many parts of the planet, agriculture and processing industry have great prospects as well. This sector is well-developed in Belarus. With additional investment it can benefit greatly both Belarus and business partners,” Boris Batura emphasized.

Belarus, Latvia urged to make maximum use of advantages of Customs Union, EU