Belarus and Russia to strengthen cooperation in biotechnology development

Belarus and Russia are considering closer cooperation in biotechnology as part of efforts to develop advanced industries, expand scientific collaboration and increase the production of high-value technological products, as reported by BelTA, a TV BRICS partner.

Belarusian President Aleksander Lukashenko has proposed combining the two countries’ expertise and resources in biotechnology, highlighting the potential for joint work between specialised enterprises and research centres within the Union State framework.

The proposal was made during a meeting in Minsk with Igor Shchegolev, Russian Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Central Federal District. The discussion focused on expanding industrial cooperation, strengthening technological capabilities and creating new opportunities in biotechnology-related sectors.

Lukashenko noted that Russia has accumulated significant experience in biotechnology development, particularly in areas that originated from scientific research conducted during the Soviet period. He stressed that existing expertise in both countries should be brought together to create a coordinated approach to technological development.

Deep processing technologies allow agricultural resources such as grain and other crops to be transformed into advanced industrial products that can be used in domestic manufacturing and have export potential. The sides discussed opportunities to expand cooperation in this field, including microbiological processing and related technologies.

Lukashenko said Belarus is ready to share its experience in areas where it has developed specialised expertise. He cited the production of feed products for the aquaculture sector as one example of successful cooperation, noting that Belarusian capabilities have helped meet domestic demand and supply products to the Russian market.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of strengthening direct ties between Belarusian regions and Russian regions. According to Lukashenko, closer regional cooperation can accelerate project implementation, reduce administrative barriers and improve the efficiency of joint initiatives.

Igor Shchegolev also noted significant prospects for cooperation in biotechnology. Following a visit to a major Belarusian biotechnology facility, he highlighted the importance of skilled specialists, technological expertise and the quality of locally developed products.