The integration model of the Union State is in demand in the CIS space. This viewpoint was expressed to BelTA by Olga Lazorkina, analyst at the Belarusian Institute of Strategic Research, Candidate of Historical Sciences.
According to her, Belarus and Russia are actively developing integration processes and strengthening comprehensive cooperation with other CIS countries. "The integration model of the Union State is in demand in the CIS as an example of effective mutually beneficial cooperation in all key spheres of state and society life while respecting the independence and sovereignty of the parties. This model has its own characteristics: complementarity, adaptability and proactivity. And today, in difficult conditions, they began to manifest themselves in the most contoured way. For example, without complementarity, we would not be able to launch import substitution programs. Therefore, this model is attractive for other CIS members," she said.
The analyst drew attention to the fact that in the current conditions, strengthening the financial sovereignty of the CIS states is the most important task. And the transition of the CIS states to mutual settlements in national currencies is one of the main mechanisms to ensure the security and economic independence of our countries. "Financial independence equals economic security. Sanctions have shown what can happen if the dominance of the dollar in the economic system continues. Belarus and Russia were innovators in this area. We insisted on revising the role of the dollar in mutual settlements with Russia and other CIS countries and proposed gradually introducing national currencies," Olga Lazorkina recalled.
At the same time, she drew attention to the fact that when discussing the issue of replacing one currency with another, it is necessary to determine which state will take responsibility for providing a reserve currency. "Obviously, this currency should be unifying and satisfying for everyone. To do this, we need to create a system of mechanisms that will support it. And this requires the consent of all stakeholders and the political will of the States. This vertical, which is extremely important for the CIS, is already being formed."
She recalled that 2023 was declared the Year of the Russian Language in the CIS countries. "The Russian language is traditionally the language of interethnic communication in the CIS space, an integral link between the historically friendly numerous peoples inhabiting the Commonwealth countries. Today, the West is conducting a policy of pressure against the Russian language. And the announcement in the CIS of 2023 as the Year of the Russian Language means that despite all contradictions, the post-Soviet countries believe that such policy of pressure is disastrous for the entire world community," Olga Lazorkina summed up.