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Aleksandr Lukashenko and Oleg Melnichenko held a working meeting at the Independence Palace in Minsk.
The head of state emphasized that the Days of the Penza Oblast are taking place in Belarus on the eve of the Day of Unity of the Peoples of Russia and Belarus, celebrated on April 2, as well as in the year marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet people's victory in the Great Patriotic War.
"It’s very important to us that our children and grandchildren remember this date. We raise the new generation on these dates and historical events," noted Aleksandr Lukashenko.
Oleg Melnichenko expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to meet again and congratulated Lukashenko on his confident victory in the recent presidential elections.
"The Belarusian people have once again placed their trust in you and chosen the path alongside Russia. I wish you success in preserving and enhancing the wealth of the Republic of Belarus," said Oleg Melnichenko.
The main topic of the discussion was economic and trade cooperation. Over the past year, the Penza Oblast's foreign trade turnover with Belarus increased by nearly a third. Exports rose by 40%, and imports by 17%.
"We’re focused on industrial cooperation with Russia and your region. I'm very pleased that our MAZ and your GRAZ are working together. Everything we promised the residents of the Penza Oblast will be delivered," emphasized Aleksandr Lukashenko.
This was the second meeting between the President of Belarus and the Governor of the Penza Oblast. Oleg Melnichenko noted that, with Aleksandr Lukashenko's support, they had successfully purchased public transport vehicles and automotive equipment from their Belarusian partners for housing and utilities, agriculture, and road construction needs. Plans are in place to continue and expand efforts in import substitution and cooperation.
"We are working systematically. In October, we will hold the fourth meeting of the Working Group on Cooperation between the Penza Oblast and the Republic of Belarus in Penza," said Oleg Melnichenko.