Belarus, Russia come to terms on supply and transit of Belarus’ forest products
An archive photo
MOSCOW, 22 December (BelTA) – Belarus and Russia have resolved the issues related to restrictions on the supply and transit of Belarusian forest products, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belarus to Russia (vested with the deputy prime minister’s authorities) Dmitry Krutoi told reporters following the meeting of the High-Level Group of the Union State Council of Ministers in Moscow on 22 December, BelTA has learned.
Dmitry Krutoi recalled that several information systems, including phytosanitary, veterinary and transport systems, have already been developed within the Union State for control purposes. “The forestry system will be the first civilian system that will enable the free movement of Belarusian forest products, like lumber, slabs and other export goods,” he said.
The ambassador noted that the experience of addressing problems in the forestry sector will be used to resolve issues in other sectors. “Several smart solutions have been born out of a seemingly small issue related to the forestry industry,” he clarified.
Dmitry Krutoi explained that the topic of supplies of Belarusian forest products is extremely relevant as the forest sector was the first one to be targeted by Western sanctions. “Our export of forest products, which used to go mostly to Western Europe, had to be redirected to Asia and the CIS almost overnight. Therefore, transit through the territory of Russia has become critically important for us and it is good that we have managed to resolve this very complex problem,” the ambassador emphasized.
He added that the Russian government has already prepared the final version of the resolution that addresses nearly all remaining technicalities.
According to State Secretary of the Union State Dmitry Mezentsev, a total of 15 points were included in the agenda of the High-Level Group meeting. In addition to the forestry sector, the parties discussed the delivery of goods, transport infrastructure, social guarantees for people with disabilities, and digital access to the markets of Belarus and Russia. “The High-Level Group has once again confirmed the effectiveness of such an institution,” the State Secretary summarized.
