Minsk Oblast and the Brazilian State of Goias are eager to promote trade and economic cooperation. The statement was made at the meeting with the delegation of Goias at the Minsk Oblast Executive Committee on 29 June, BelTA has learned.

“The trade between Minsk Oblast and Brazil is rather small. However, it is just the beginning. Our countries have a lot in common, there are huge prospects for the enhancement of trade and economic cooperation, cultural exchange, cooperation in education and science. We view Belarus as a stable strategic partner in the center of Europe. The State of Goias, in turn, is ready to serve as a reliable platform for the promotion of Belarusian interests in Brazil,” Goias Vice Governor Jose Eliton de Figueredo Junior said.

In his words, the visit aims to specify and strengthen previous agreements. During the visit to MTZ on 29 June the Goias delegation held talks on the joint project to launch the assembly of Belarusian tractors in Goias. Apart from that, the Brazilian side is interested in raising the import of Belarusian potash fertilizers.

On 29 June the Brazilian guests also visited Minsk Leather Production Association, Belaruskali. On 30 June they will visit ZAO Avgust-Bel, representatives of business circles of the two countries will hold negotiations at the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and sign an addition to the agreement on social and economic cooperation between the State of Goias and Minsk Oblast.

The Brazilian delegation includes Goias Vice Governor Jose Eliton de Figueredo Junior, businessmen, representatives of manufacturing enterprises, the logistics center of export promotion of the State of Goias.

In January-April 2015 the trade between Minsk Oblast and Brazil reduced by 31.8% to $214.4 million from the same period of 2014. The export of Minsk Oblast made up $180.4 million, its import was $34.1 million.