Pakistan and Belarus have taken a huge step forward to improve their bilateral relationship, signing a series of the main memorandums of understanding and finalizing an agreement to send 150,000 skilled Pakistani workers to the country of Belarus.
The meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko was held at the Independence Palace in Minsk on Friday, where the agreement was signed.
Broad-Based Cooperation Across Sectors
During the meeting, the two leaders reaffirmed their dedication to enhance cooperation in
- Agriculture
- Food security
- Industry
- Trade
- Defence
Both countries also agreed to explore joint ventures in manufacturing
- Agricultural machinery
- Electric buses
- Food-related industries
Prime Minister Shehbaz also discussed the importance of Belarusian expertise in modernizing Pakistan’s agricultural practices, particularly in enhancing per-acre yield. He noted that with 65% of Pakistan’s population living in rural areas, there is a huge capacity for Belarusian technology and methods to alter productivity.
Read more: Pakistan shows interest in purchasing 100+ horsepower Belarus tractors
150,000 Skilled Workers are ready to Support Belarusian Economy
One of the most remarkable outcomes of the talks was Belarus’s acceptance of 150,000 Pakistani skilled workers to support its national development. Prime Minister Shehbaz talked about this move as a “gift” for the youth of Pakistan and a “remarkable opportunity” for both nations.
“These young professionals, certified by international standards, will be a great asset to Belarus while securing meaningful livelihoods back home,” the premier discussed it during a joint press conference.
A comprehensive framework for executing this workforce initiative is presently being developed by both sides.
Boosting Defence and Business Ties
In addition to economic and agricultural cooperation, the two countries also agreed to strengthen ties in defense and business-to-business collaboration. The leaders analyzed ongoing trade and investment projects and expressed satisfaction over the progress made since the eighth Pakistan-Belarus Joint Ministerial Commission meeting in the previous year.
Diplomatic Warmth and Shared Vision
President Lukashenko welcomed PM Shehbaz and extended warm regards to former PM Nawaz Sharif, hosting both leaders for a private dinner at his farmhouse. The gathering also included Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.
Calling for a long-term strategic partnership, President Lukashenko stressed the importance of exploring untapped areas of collaboration. He expressed confidence that Prime Minister Shehbaz’s visit would assist in opening new avenues for bilateral growth.
Helping in Strengthening Parliamentary Cooperation
The Chairperson of the Council of the Republic, Natalya Kochanova, and Chairman of the House of Representatives, Igor Sergeenko have been encountered with Prime Minister Shehbaz. Both sides have shown agreements on the vitality of enhancing parliamentary relations and called for more frequent exchanges between legislators from both nations.