Belarusian President Lukashenko Attends Informal CIS Summit
Minsk, The Gulf Observer: Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko attended the traditional informal summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), held near St. Petersburg. The summit, hosted by Russia at the Igora all-season resort, was chaired by Russian President Vladimir Putin, as Russia concludes its term as the chair of the CIS and prepares to hand over the leadership to Tajikistan.
In his opening remarks, President Putin expressed gratitude to the CIS leaders for their presence, reflecting on the achievements of the past year within the framework of the CIS and outlining future priorities. “I would like to thank you for gathering here in Leningrad Oblast to compare notes on what was done in the outgoing year within the framework of the CIS and what is to be done in the near future,” Putin said.
Before addressing the summit’s agenda, President Putin offered condolences on behalf of the CIS leaders following the tragic crash of an Azerbaijani airplane in Kazakhstan’s Aktau. “Before we begin our work, unfortunately, I must say a few words about the tragedy that occurred in Aktau. I would like to express condolences on our behalf to the families of the victims and all those injured. Let’s hope for their recovery,” Putin stated. He also shared that he had spoken with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev about the incident and confirmed that a thorough investigation would take place.
Discussing the progress of integration within the CIS, President Putin highlighted the 10.6% increase in Russia’s trade with CIS member countries, which surpassed $93 billion in the period from January to October. He also noted improvements in macroeconomic indicators across the region, with the CIS’s total GDP expected to rise by 4.7% in 2024, outpacing the global average. “Cooperation between the CIS countries in the currency and financial markets is expanding. Our own independent payment systems and settlement instruments are increasingly being used to service mutual economic transactions. The share of national currencies in settlements on commercial transactions between the CIS members exceeds 85%,” Putin remarked.
The Russian president also pointed to the upcoming 80th anniversary of the Great Victory in 2025, inviting his colleagues to join the anniversary celebrations in Moscow on May 9. “I am confident that the deepening of partnership within the CIS in various areas meets the fundamental interests of the peoples of our countries. I am confident that we will continue to work together to address the challenges of socio-economic development and to strengthen stability and security,” Putin concluded.
The informal summit took place at the Igora all-season resort, known for its highest altitude difference and longest piste in Leningrad Oblast, located just an hour’s drive from St. Petersburg. The resort also boasts Igora Drive, Russia’s most modern driving range, with 10 tracks for car racing and motorcycling.
