Belarus foreign minister calls on president

Belarus Foreign Minister Vladimir V. Makei called on President Pranab Mukherjee here and said his country was ready to consider transferring technology under the government's Make in India initiative, an official said on Thursday.

"Belarus can contribute to the Make in India initiative of the Indian government and is ready to consider transfer of technology," Makei said during the meeting at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Wednesday.

Mukherjee said he looked forward to meet President Alexander G. Lukashenko during his upcoming visit to Belarus.

The president recalled that he had met Lukashenko as the external affairs minister during his visit to India in 2007.

Drawing upon the importance of bilateral relations between the two countries, Mujherjee said: "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," he added.

Mukherjee also called for strengthening the existing trade relations between the two countries.

Echoing the sentiments, the foreign minister 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."