'Northern Waterfront' key step in strengthening UAE-Belarus relations: Officials
MINSK, 8th May, 2025 (WAM) -- Officials from the Republic of Belarus emphasised the importance of the newly inaugurated International Exhibition Centre in the Belarusian capital, Minsk.
The centre was opened today with Emirati investment support as part of the 'Northern Waterfront' project, which aims to explore new horizons for strengthening commercial and investment cooperation between the two countries. This pivotal step contributes to the creation of constructive partnerships between the business communities of the two friendly nations.
Vladimir Kukharev, Mayor of Minsk, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that the new centre is one of the city's most prominent facilities. It incorporates the latest technologies and advanced architectural standards, allowing for the hosting of events across various sectors. He noted that this achievement is a model of investment and economic integration between the two countries and opens the door to more joint projects serving their developmental and strategic goals.
He added that cooperation with the UAE continues to grow, supported by a flow of investments into development projects. He stressed Belarus’ commitment to implementing all agreed-upon plans without obstacles within the UAE’s initiatives, and that Minsk is dedicated to ensuring the highest levels of efficiency and operation in all joint projects.
He pointed out that work is currently underway on the joint ‘Northern Waterfront’ project with the UAE, under a mutually agreed work plan. The project includes integrated sports, educational, cultural, and residential facilities harmonised with the scenic nature of Minsk. It also contributes to sustainable development goals in both countries by opening broad avenues for cooperation, including in tourism.
For his part, Dmitry Pantus, Chairman of the State Authority for Military Industry of Belarus and head of the Belarusian side in the UAE-Belarus Joint Committee, affirmed that the opening of the exhibition and the anticipated smart economic city project reflects the depth of interaction and strategic cooperation between the UAE and Belarus. He noted that the prospects for cooperation between the two nations are broad and promising.
He stated that from May 21 to 24, the centre will host the defence industries exhibition MILEX, which reinforces Belarus’ status as a permanent hub for economic and knowledge-based events. He added that the centre will further cement Minsk’s position as a regional and global destination for major specialised events.
He added that bilateral relations have succeeded in establishing deep and comprehensive partnerships across a wide range of areas. Emirati-Belarusian cooperation spans sectors such as industry, culture, healthcare, and emerging economies, representing an exceptional phase of active collaboration.