Krutoy: Belarus highly appreciates the commitment of Latin American countries to developing constructive dialogue

Dmitry Krutoy. April 23, Moscow . Belarus highly appreciates the commitment of Latin American countries to developing a constructive dialogue. This was stated by Belarusian Ambassador to Russia Dmitry Krutoy on April 23 in Moscow at the 3rd Belarusian-Latin American Forum, BELTA reports.

"The fact that we are gathering here for the third year in a row demonstrates our mutual sincere interest and readiness to continue expanding multifaceted economic cooperation. We are developing cooperation in very challenging conditions. A multipolar world order is emerging, and the principle of sovereign equality of states is gaining importance. We highly appreciate that Latin American countries are committed to developing a constructive dialogue and pursuing independent policies in the international arena, taking into account their national interests," Dmitry Krutoy said.
He recalled the words of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who has repeatedly emphasized that Belarus is ready to work with all countries without exception and on any issues, with no closed topics. "However, this position is not convenient for everyone. In an attempt to preserve its dominance, the West is actively resorting to unilateral coercive sanctions , the number of which has become unprecedented, including against Belarus," the ambassador stated.

"Latin American countries are long-standing friends and partners for us. This is a large and promising market with good opportunities for both trade and mutual investment. Using Venezuela as an example, where we have built numerous residential complexes and industrial plants, Belarus has demonstrated that there are no barriers for us in terms of logistics or finance," Dmitry Krutoy noted.

At the same time, he emphasized that Belarus is not abandoning traditional goods. "For example, Belarusian food has already become a global phenomenon. It is known and loved in more than 100 countries. Last year, revenue from the sale of cheese, milk, candy, vodka, and sausages abroad amounted to almost $8 billion. Belarusian agriculture has long since resolved the problem of national security within the country and is ready to export not only food products, but also scientific developments (seeds, new varieties, breeding cattle), technologies for the turnkey construction of dairy and meat complexes of any complexity," the diplomat noted.  

"Or, for example, productsLight industry, which is also in high demand in Russia and other countries. Linen products, carpets, clothing, and footwear could also find a niche in Latin American countries. Events in recent years, particularly the coronavirus pandemic, have shown the world how important pharmaceuticals are. Belarus has significant developments in this area, which you will also hear about today. Of course, we will be discussing investment support at the forum. Belarus is ready to bring its technologies. As a transit country, Belarus pays special attention to logistics and freight transportation. We are well aware of all the current challenges in this area," noted Dmitry Krutoy.

"Latin America is a long-standing friend for us, a familiar partner with whom we have already implemented many excellent projects. We don't need to get to know each other. And the goal of the forum is not only and not primarily to present opportunities. "The goal is to provide the most up-to-date information on current developments in the country's foreign trade and how we can quickly apply and deploy the mechanisms and tools (for cash flow, new logistics, and contract enforcement) developed over the past two years under sanctions in Latin American countries," the ambassador added.

The 3rd Belarusian-Latin American Forum was organized by the National Marketing Center jointly with the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the Business and Cultural Complex of the Belarusian Embassy in Russia. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus Yevgeny Shestakov led the Belarusian delegation. Participants included heads of diplomatic missions and trade and economic services from Latin American countries accredited in Russia and Belarus concurrently.

At the forum, Belarus showcased the potential of its light industry, pharmaceuticals, and food processing industries, as well as its most promising projects in biotechnology, the production of agricultural biopreparations, and biofertilizers. Experts also spoke on logistics and settlements with counterparties in the region.