Official website of the President of Russia

News   /

The meeting reviewed the results of the State Council’s work over 2007 and outlined development prospects for Russian-Belarusian integration and foreign policy cooperation.

At the press conference concerning the results of a meeting of the Supreme State Council of the Russia and Belarus Union State, President Vladimir Putin said that, in order to ensure a smooth transition of bilateral cooperation and according to world market principles, both parties should live up to previous agreements and the contracts. Russia will provide Belarus with 1.5 billion dollars in credit. That decision is reflected in a memorandum on economic cooperation signed by the two leaders. Following the meeting of the State Council the presidents of Russia and Belarus also issued a joint statement.

Among other documents signed in the presence of the heads of state were the Agreement on Equal Access to and Exchange of Medical Services, the Agreement on Equal Access in the Pricing Policy of the Railways, and an Agreement between Vnesheconombank and Belvneshekonombank Concerning Subordinated Loans.

Mr Putin's visit concluded with an official dinner hosted by the Belarusian President.

The Treaty on the Creation of the Union State and the Action Programme for implementing its provisions, which set out the main areas and stages of integration, including the creation of a common customs and economic space and intensified cooperation in the humanitarian sphere, foreign policy, defence and security, were signed on December 8, 1999.

The principles and approaches underpinning the development of integration cooperation between Russia and Belarus and specific practical cooperation issues are examined through regular top-level dialogue and summits.

Mr Putin gave an outline of the future direction for work on building the Union State in his Annual Address to the Russian Federation Federal Assembly for 2007, stating that Russia remains firmly committed to its policy of comprehensive development in such vital areas as the economy, transport, social protection, healthcare and humanitarian cooperation.