Belarus, Colombia to sign agreements on visa waiver, trade, education

“The diplomats welcomed the constructive nature of Belarus-Colombia relations and a noticeable intensification of the political dialogue and recalled a number of ministerial and interparliamentary visits and negotiations held in recent years,” the press service said.

As far as trade and economic relations between Belarus and Colombia are concerned, the ambassadors agreed that bilateral trade lags behind the existing potential. Dmitry Krutoi suggested setting up a joint trade and economic commission. Many years of experience show that such commissions are an effective tool for promoting cooperation and trade. He expressed hope that soon Belarus and Colombia would be able to lay an institutional foundation for such a commission.

“With regard to the development of the legal framework, Dmitry Krutoi and Héctor Arenas Neira highlighted the importance of implementing the existing agreements, as well as concluding agreements in the field of taxation, trade, education and other areas of mutual interest. Another important agreement on the agenda deals with a visa waiver for regular passport holders. This agreement will facilitate contacts between individuals and businesses of the two countries, encourage Belarusians and Colombians to exchange visits,” the embassy's press service noted.

According to the Colombian ambassador, his country's foreign policy principles are consonant with the approaches of the Republic of Belarus. These principles include commitment to multi-lateralism, strict observance of international law, peaceful settlement of disagreements between countries through dialogue and consultations.

“The diplomats spoke in favor of expanding bilateral relations at all levels and stepping up interaction in international organizations,” the press service added.