Putin praises Belarus’ policy of economic integration with Russia

MOSCOW, 16 December (BelTA) – Belarus’ policy of economic integration with Russia deserves absolute support and respect, Prime Minister of Russia Vladimir Putin said during a call-in session broadcast live on 16 December, BelTA has learnt. The Russian Premier admitted that the relations between the governments of the two states are not always easy. “But I should say that the Belarusian government has embarked on fair economic integration with Russia. This choice definitely deserves support and respect,” Vladimir Putin said. “We have deep respect for Belarusian people,” he said. Vladimir Putin informed that under the recent agreements Russia will supply 20-21 million tonnes of crude oil duty free to Belarus in 2011. The duties from selling Belarusian oil products abroad will be channeled into the Russian budget. Vladimir Putin added that this will not extend to oil extracted in Belarus.

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