The trade turnover between Russia and Belarus may see a significant rise, according to Yuri Shevtsov, director of the Center for European Integration in Minsk, who shared insights with Izvestia.
Shevtsov highlighted that bilateral relations are characterized by a strategic partnership and alliance. Following the imposition of sanctions on Russia, cooperation between the two nations has intensified across nearly all sectors. He noted that conditions are emerging for increased trade volume, as some companies vacated the Russian market and were partially replaced by Belarusian enterprises.
A key focus of discussion is the potential construction of a second nuclear power plant in Belarus, possibly with Russian assistance. Shevtsov emphasized that this project could provide a substantial boost to trade turnover. The existing nuclear power plant near Grodno, located on the border with Lithuania, is the only operational one in Belarus. Expanding its capacity or building a new facility, he argued, would attract investments even during the construction phase.
The expert described the project as the second-largest investment initiative in the country, promising to significantly enhance trade relations between Russia and Belarus.
