CIS countries should consider integration projects in production, IT, trade - Belarusian PM

MINSK. Dec 18 (Interfax) - Belarus invites CIS countries to participate in "end-to-end" integration projects following the example of those already implemented in the EAEU and the Union State, Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko said on Monday in Moscow at a meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the CIS.

"Within the EAEU, a cooperation project to create a Eurasian electric bus is at an active stage of development, and a decision has been made on the creation of a corresponding interstate program, as well as a decision on the procedure for financing such projects. I am confident that end-to-end integration projects such as these can and should be promoted within the CIS so as to fully utilize the joint scientific, technological and financial potential of our countries," Golovchenko said.

"This also applies to issues of e-commerce, the introduction of digital technologies, ensuring access to government procurement, and reducing telephone tariffs," he said.

Golovchenko noted that in 2023, the CIS countries returned to the trajectory of economic growth. Based on the results of 9 months, CIS countries' GDP grew over 2%, the volume of industrial production grew 3.4%, cargo transportation rose almost 6%, and retail trade increased 5%. "These are good indicators that can and should be exceeded next year," Golovchenko said.

"Our further efforts should be aimed at eliminating obstacles to mutual trade, liberalization in the service sector and attracting investment," the Prime Minister said.