VITEBSK, 17 July (BelTA) – Twin-town relations between the Venezuelan states and Belarusian regions will give an impetus to the bilateral cooperation of the two countries, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to the Republic of Belarus Americo Diaz Nunez said as he met with senior officials of the Vitebsk Oblast Executive Committee on 17 July.
According to him, Venezuela shows the interest in all areas of cooperation with Belarus: culture, sport, tourism and economy. Venezuela is interested in establishing closer relations with Belarusian educational establishments based in the regional centre, exchanging youth and children delegations, artists and performers. In the economic area, Venezuela would like to set up joint companies. “We have already visited two Vitebsk-based companies to study the investment possibilities,” Americo Diaz Nunez said.
“As of today, Belarus and Venezuela have signed 69 joint agreements in various areas. Yet, the cooperation level between the two countries may be much higher,” the Ambassador underscored.
In 2008 the trade between Belarus and Venezuela increased by 298% from 2007 to $173.3 million. The growth was due to an increase in export. Belarusian export surged by more than 305% to $173.1 million. The import amounted to $147,000 (down six times). Belarus had a surplus of more than $172 million in trade with Venezuela. In January-April 2009, Belarusian export to Venezuela doubled over the same period 2008. Import was virtually non-existent.
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