Putin, Lukashenko pledge closer Russia-Belarus ties as trade rises

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko held talks in Moscow on August 29, focusing on bilateral trade, economic ties and cooperation within the Union State.

The two leaders welcomed the growth in trade between Russia and Belarus, which has increased by 12.5% since the start of the year, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

Lukashenko said he expected bilateral trade turnover to exceed last year’s level by the end of 2026.

He also said Moscow and Minsk would work together to overcome any difficulties facing their economies and bilateral relations.

Putin said Russia and Belarus were continuing to strengthen the Union State and deepen co-operation on the international stage.

He highlighted their close interaction at the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Independent States and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

The talks also covered key issues in bilateral relations and the current international agenda.

By Aghakazim Guliyev