Belarus Foreign Minister calls on President Mukherjee

Belarus Foreign Minister Vladimir V. Makei called on President Pranab Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhavan on April 15.

Speaking on the occasion, the President said he is looking forward to visiting Belarus soon and meeting President Alexander G. Lukashenko of Belarus. The President recalled that he had met President Lukashenko as External Affairs Minister during his visit to India in 2007. The two countries share common perceptions on many issues. Bilateral relations are expanding. There is good understanding and cooperation between the two countries on international and regional matters. India appreciates Belarus's support on India's candidature for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council.

The President said total bilateral trade between India and Belarus is presently at the level of only about US $ 400 million. There is enormous scope to expand and deepen these relations given the potential that exists in both the countries. Belarus is the second largest supplier of potash fertilizer to India and India is a key supplier of pharmaceuticals for Belarus. Import of potash fertilizer is important for India's food security. There are many more areas where India and Belarus could cooperate more productively.

The Foreign Minister of Belarus reciprocated the sentiments of the President and said Belarus sees India as a key partner in the region. Even through Belarus is a small country, it has capabilities in many areas of industry and science. It is possible to make advances in different areas of cooperation. Belarus can contribute to the 'Make in India' initiative of the Indian Government and is ready to consider transfer of technology. He expressed confidence that the visit of the Indian President to Belarus would be a major milestone in bilateral relations.