In recent news, the 11th Session of the India-Belarus Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Cooperation took place. This article explores the core points of discussion during the session, the history of India-Belarus relations, the impact of policy and politics, as well as the way forward for both countries.
Key Highlights from the 11th Inter-Governmental Commission’s Session
The Intergovernmental Commission presented an overview of the bilateral cooperation results that took place following their tenth session in 2020. They expressed satisfaction over the progress of certain projects and encouraged respective Ministries and Departments to focus on key sectors in trade and investment spheres to yield concrete outcomes. Both India and Belarus expressed their strong intention to expand cooperation with special emphasis on pharmaceuticals, financial services, science and technology, heavy industries, culture, tourism, and education.
Historical Background of India-Belarus Relations
India and Belarus have always shared warm and cordial ties. India was among the first countries to recognize Belarus as an independent nation in 1991, after the Soviet Union disintegrated. These amicable relations extend to multiple multilateral platforms such as the UN Security Council (UNSC) and the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). In particular, Belarus’ support played a significant role in strengthening India’s candidature for the non-permanent seat at the UNSC in July 2020.
Fruitful Partnership and Cooperations
India and Belarus enjoy a comprehensive partnership, regularly exchanging views on bilateral, regional, and multilateral issues through various forums and commissions. They have signed numerous Agreements/MoUs on topics ranging from trade and economic cooperation to culture, education, media, sports, science and technology, agriculture, textiles, double taxation avoidance, investment promotion, defence, and technical cooperation.
Economic Relations and Trade Between India and Belarus
In 2019, the annual bilateral trade turnover stood at USD 569.6 million. In 2015, India bestowed the Market Economy Status to Belarus and a USD 100 million Line of Credit, which significantly contributed to the growth in the economic sector. Following this gesture, Belarusian businessmen were encouraged to invest in ‘Make in India’ projects, which proved to be a fruitful initiative.
The Indian Community in Belarus
The Indian community in Belarus comprises approximately 112 Indian nationals and 906 Indian students pursuing medical studies in Belarusian universities. Indian art, culture, dance, yoga, ayurveda, films, etc. are well-received among Belarusians, with many young Belarusians also showing a deep interest in learning Hindi and other Indian dance forms.
The Future of India-Belarus Relations
Belarus needs multiple footholds in Asia diversified by geographical subregions. India can become one such pillar in South Asia, provided Belarusian initiatives align with India’s national interests. There is potential for cooperation in cybersecurity as well. Furthermore, Belarus may serve as an “entry point” for Indian pharmaceutical companies targeting the Eurasian market. The potential of military and technical cooperation also remains untapped. In addition, Bollywood could stimulate the interest of the Indian business community and tourists. Establishing recreational centres based on traditional Indian medicine models (Ayurveda + Yoga) in Belarus could boost tourism and medical services exports.