India and Belarus need to expand bilateral trade: Prez

President Pranab Mukherjee has said India and Belarus need to deepen their bilateral trade ties and take them to a new level.
The President made the remark while interacting with Belarusian Foreign Minister Vladimir V Makei who called on him at Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday.
The President will soon travel to the European nation where he will meet President Alexander G Lukashenko whom he had met as External Affairs Minister in 2007, and other dignitaries.
"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," Mukherjee said.

The President, a Rashtrapati Bhavan spokesperson stated, said total bilateral trade between India and Belarus is nowat the level of only about USD 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," he said.

Reciprocating the sentiments of the President, Makei 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 Indian government and is ready to consider transfer of technology," Makei was quoted as saying.
The Foreign Minister expressed confidence that Mukherjee's forthcoming visit to Belarus would be a major milestone in bilateral relations.