Thirteen legislative proposals put forth during the third assembly of the House of Representatives
In the realm of international affairs, Belarus is actively pursuing stronger ties with Africa, with a particular focus on expanding trade and exports. This strategic shift is evident in the country's ambition to increase its exports to African nations to between $1-1.5 billion[1][5].
This renewed emphasis on Africa is reflected in several key areas. Parliamentary engagement is at the forefront, with the Belarusian National Assembly establishing working groups dedicated to cooperation with African parliaments from countries such as Algeria, Egypt, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Equatorial Guinea, and South Africa[1]. These groups facilitate regular meetings and exchanges of visits, aiming to deepen interparliamentary ties.
Boosting Belarusian exports to Africa is a specific target, highlighted as part of Belarus’ broader foreign policy objectives. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other agencies have reported progress in advancing these interests in Africa[1]. Diplomatic facilitation is another pillar of this cooperation, as evidenced by agreements such as the abolition of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and service passports between Belarus and Uganda[1].
Belarusian goods and services are currently being exported to various African countries, with exports over the past years increasing more than four times[1]. Despite the lack of specific African countries mentioned as targets for increased export focus, it is clear that Belarus sees Africa as a significant direction for its international cooperation[1].
The drive for stronger relations with Africa is not limited to the executive branch. Mikhail Rachkov, the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Belarusian National Assembly, has proposed strengthening interparliamentary cooperation with African countries[2]. Rachkov considers Africa as a significant direction for interparliamentary cooperation for Belarus.
In light of these developments, Belarusian officials such as Andrei Ipatov, the Chairman of the House of Representatives, advocate for a balanced approach in drafting bills and preparing for increased economic exchange[3]. Ipatov's call for balance underscores the importance of maintaining a sustainable and mutually beneficial relationship between Belarus and Africa.
Despite the political and human rights issues that may arise in other contexts within Belarus, the trade and parliamentary relations with African states appear to be advancing as planned[1]. This active parliamentary and diplomatic engagement complements Belarus’ wider strategy to diversify international cooperation and increase its economic footprint in Africa. The cooperation is positioned as a priority within Belarus' international affairs agenda, signaling both political will and institutional support for deeper ties focused on trade, economic exchange, and diplomatic collaboration[1].
In conclusion, Belarus is actively working to strengthen its interparliamentary cooperation with Africa, with a focus on expanding trade and exports. The country sees Africa as a significant direction for its international cooperation, and efforts are being made to facilitate diplomatic and parliamentary exchanges to deepen these ties. As Belarus continues to pursue this strategy, it remains to be seen how the relationship will evolve and what impact it will have on both parties.
[1] Belarusian Telegraph Agency (2021) [2] Belarusian Telegraph Agency (2021) [3] Belarusian Telegraph Agency (2021)
- The Belarusian National Assembly's establishment of working groups with various African parliaments indicates a focus on policy-and-legislation cooperation with African nations, as part of Belarus's strategic shift towards Africa.
- The increase in Belarusian news about diplomatic agreements and trade expansion with Africa reflects the country's politics and general-news agenda, highlighting Africa as a significant direction for Belarus's international affairs.
