Miory Regional Executive Committee

Belarus and Iran must work more closely together to counter Western provocations. This was stated by the President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, on October 17 at a meeting with the First Vice President of Iran, Mohammad Mokhber, reported a BELTA correspondent.

"I hope you will not be disappointed by your visit. There are numerous issues, plenty to discuss. Therefore, I also hope that our conversation will yield positive practical outcomes," the Head of State said upon welcoming the Iranian guest. "You are aware of the situation Belarus is facing. It is essentially the same situation you are experiencing. The pressure exerted on our countries is unprecedented, yet you have already managed to counter it to a certain extent, and your experience is highly valuable to us. What continually amazes me is that throughout these large-scale campaigns over this period, Iran has not in any way reduced its level of development, but rather has made significant progress."

In March 2023, Alexander Lukashenko paid an official visit to Iran. At that time, the presidents agreed to develop an action plan for the foreseeable future to ensure more successful growth in bilateral trade and overall cooperation. Following the talks, Alexander Lukashenko and the President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, signed a roadmap for comprehensive cooperation between the two countries for the 2023–2026 period.

"The most crucial point. Drawing on the experience of relations with Iran and many years of cooperation, I conclude that both your bureaucracy and ours must learn to operate with great efficiency. If we reach an agreement on something, it must be implemented within the stipulated timeframe. For us, the most critical factor is not sanctions or pressure, but time. We cannot afford to lose this time due to bureaucratic hurdles under any circumstances," the Belarusian leader stressed.

Alexander Lukashenko noted that the global situation is intensifying, and the crisis in the Middle East enables hostile Western countries, led by the United States of America, to consistently direct the brunt of this conflict against Iran. "You perceive this more acutely. Our response is clear: we must work more closely together and cooperate jointly to counter such provocations," the President stated.

In 2022, Belarus-Iran trade turnover exceeded $100 million, which is three times higher than the 2021 level. The positive dynamics persist this year. From January to August, trade between the two countries reached $62.5 million, representing a 26% increase over last year's figures. Belarusian exports continue to grow year after year. The country supplies Iran with potash fertilizers, timber, cellulose, and synthetic fibers. Imports include vegetables, fruits and nuts, vaccines, blood serums, and blood.

Source: belta.by