The head of state highly praised the role of the center. Export promotion is one of the most important lines of activity in modern life, essential for any state.

"Recently, you have been watching the development of the relations between Belarus and Russia. Your powerful group of companies is at the crossroads of all these relations. You have certain reserves and resources, both administrative and financial, in terms of support of the relations between Belarus and Russia," Aleksandr Lukashenko said.

"Therefore, it was very important for me to meet with you and discuss issues. Maybe you have something to offer. You mostly definitely have. You have experience in this regard. We have here Belarus' chief economist [First Deputy Prime Minister Nikolai Snopkov]. We want him to hear our discussions and to make a lot of efforts to support our cooperation," the Belarusian leader stressed.

Aleksandr Lukashenko also noted the work of Veronika Nikishina in her previous post at the Eurasian Economic Commission, where she was a member of the Board (Minister) for Trade.

“We had a brief meeting once. I remember it very well. It was during the elections to the Eurasian commission. A lot of time has passed since then. You work in the new position,” he said.

“Please convey my best regards to [First Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Andrei] Belousov [Veronika Nikishina's husband]. We often refer to him while discussing various matters. He is a notable person. Please, give him my best wishes. I hold him in high regard. You know that. Thank you for coming,” the Belarusian leader said.

Veronika Nikishina thanked for the opportunity to meet. “I represent the group of companies of the Russian Export Center. These are four organizations united into one holding company. Two organizations provide financial support, the other two - non-financial support. Given the strategic importance of trade and economic cooperation between the Russian Federation and Belarus, Belarus is a key country for us, where we implement our entire arsenal of financial and non-financial measures in the interests of Russian and Belarusian companies. All our efforts are meant to benefit our economies,” she said.