Improving the transport infrastructure within the Union State is of key importance. This opinion was expressed to BelTA by BISR analyst Olga Lazorkina.
"In the context of the new geopolitical reality, the improvement of transport infrastructure within the Union State is of key importance. Today it is obvious that changes in supply chains have entered a phase of drastic changes. In general, we can talk about a colossal logistical movement. The issue of transport corridors is top in international meetings of any level", she said.
The analyst added that export diversification is not a new topic for our country. It had been implemented in stages long before the introduction of restrictive measures by a number of Western countries. "Because of this, Belarus has formed a circle of partners in the Eurasian region, has stable image characteristics as a supplier and manufacturer of high-quality goods".
Olga Lazorkina believes that Belarus, whose exports are based on potash fertilizers and refined petroleum products, needs to gain access to sea transportation in a short time.
"Sea freight is considered one of the most economical, which is also important for Belarus and for end consumers. The presence of its own port infrastructure will allow for independent price regulation and, therefore, will increase the competitiveness and attractiveness of Belarusian products on world markets. Belarus plans ports in St. Petersburg and Murmansk. These are undoubtedly long-term projects", the expert believes.
Russian ports play a key role for Belarusian exports. Belarus sends petroleum products, potash and nitrogen fertilizers, metal products, and woodworking goods through 19 Russian ports. At the same time, the BISR analyst drew attention to the fact that it is important to maximize the opportunities that have been created within the framework of the Union State. "Today Russia is also moving in the Asian direction. The maritime infrastructure for Belarus is not about the economy, but about the strategic security of the country's development. The constant geopolitical risks accompanying trade in the last two decades require the formation of a stable platform based primarily on economic factors such as competition and pragmatism", Olga Lazorkina added.
The BISR analyst drew attention to the fact that Belarus and Russia provide reliable transport communications and trade turnover both within the Union State and as part of cooperation with external partners, which is one of the key factors of the economic stability of our countries. "As for our neighbors, the democratic "shroud" will inevitably fall. Belarus does not intend to give gifts to anyone in the form of ready-made terminals. All issues will be consistently resolved in international structures", she concluded.