Mogilev, Tula discuss cooperation prospects

MOGILEV, 13 October (BelTA) – Mogilev is hosting the 5^th matchmaking session of its twin-town Tula, the Russian Federation, BelTA learnt from the Mogilev City Hall.

Attending the forum are representatives of the administrations of the two cities, the authorities of the municipal and industrial companies, businessmen. The Russian delegation is led by Ilya Bespalov, the deputy head for economic development of Tula Administration.

The two-day business forum will focus on economic cooperation and trade between the two regions. Mogilev is expected to demonstrate its economic potential, including its free economic zone and technological park.

All-round bilateral relations have been increasingly vibrant since Tula and Mogilev signed a twin-town agreement in November 1998. The two regions have recently held a number of economic missions that included trading shows, business meetings and joint cultural and sports events.

Today Tula Oblast accounts for 1.5% of Mogilev’s total trade with the Russian Federation. In January-August 2011 Mogilev exported $7.8 million worth of products to Tula Oblast. This is 72.4% higher than during the same time last year. Mogilev import made up $6.6 million. In January-August 2011 the Belarusian region posted $1.2 million surplus in trade with Tula Oblast.