Lukashenko speaks with Putin over phone

Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko had a telephone conversation with Russia President Vladimir Putin at the initiative of the Russian side on 21 February, BelTA learned from the press service of the Belarusian leader.The presidents discussed topical issues on the bilateral agenda. The heads of state focused on the supplies of energy resources.At the meeting with Governor of Russia’s Arkhangelsk region Igor Orlov Belarus President mentioned that during the conversation Vladimir Putin submitted new proposals regarding the regulation of the situation in the oil industry:

(soundbite)

You know that we sometimes have arguments about certain issues. He suggested that we should think about certain things, including the delivery of oil to Belarus. Of course, we are now trying to mull over his proposal (which was unexpected). But, perhaps, it doesn’t matter, because the oil is Russian. Russia can set either reasonable or unreasonable prices as a monopolist. Earlier, we did not get oil from any other sources. The same pertains to gas.

By the way, Vladimir Putin suggested calculating how much we will lose from the reduction of customs duties in 2020 in comparison with the previous year. For example, last year we got $1 billion from customs duties. This year we will get $700 million because of the reduction (it is decreasing all the time).

He said that they would make up for those $300 million, including through bonuses for companies. This is his proposal. Well, at least it is a certain way to the resolution of disputes.

   The heads of state also discussed the construction of the Belarusian nuclear power plant, possible bilateral projects. The sides also discussed the results of the visit of the Belarusian president to Egypt with an emphasis on joint Belarus-Russia work in this country.