Minsk: Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, has affirmed the dynamic expansion of economic relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Belarus, marked by a notable qualitative leap in various industries. This development reflects the deep strategic partnership and the mutual desire of both nations to foster stronger economic collaboration.
According to Emirates News Agency, the minister stated on the sidelines of the opening of the Minsk International Exhibition Centre that UAE investments in Belarus have exceeded the $4 billion mark. He emphasized that the UAE is among the top three largest investors in Belarus, with investments spanning critical sectors such as defence, technology, hospitality, and urban development.
Al Zeyoudi highlighted the increasing interest from Emirati companies in the food and industrial sectors, where Belarus holds significant expertise and competitive capabilities. This interest is part of the broader strategic relations between the two nations.
He also mentioned the completion of negotiations on a free trade agreement regarding goods with the Eurasian Economic Union, which is expected to be signed soon in Minsk. Additionally, a supplementary bilateral agreement on services and investments has been completed, with legal reviews currently underway in preparation for the signing.
The minister stressed the need to build on this positive momentum by enhancing institutional and sectoral cooperation. Efforts are being made to organize business delegations and councils and to hold the next session of the joint economic committee later this year, which will facilitate new opportunities for partnership and economic integration between the two countries.
He further noted the potential in the food and industrial sectors, citing Belarus’s advanced production infrastructure and skilled workforce as advantageous for integration into new economy sectors.
Regarding the newly inaugurated International Exhibition Centre in Minsk, supported by Emirati investments, Al Zeyoudi described it as the first phase of the Northern Waterfront project. This initiative aims to establish a smart economic city in Belarus to attract investments in tourism and modern technologies, reflecting the UAE’s growing presence in international markets.