India and Belarus held their first-ever Consular Dialogue in Minsk on June 28, 2024. This important meeting was aimed at discussing various consular issues, such as the welfare of Indian students in Belarus and ways to boost tourism between the two countries.
The discussions were led by Aman Puri, Joint Secretary (Consular, Passport, and Visa Division) from India, and Andrei Kozhan, Head of the General Directorate for Consular Affairs from Belarus’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During the Dialogue, both countries talked about a wide range of topics. A major focus was on ensuring the welfare of Indian students studying in Belarus. They also discussed how to enhance tourism between India and Belarus. Both sides agreed to continue their discussions and review the progress in the next India-Belarus Consular Dialogue, which will be held in New Delhi at a mutually convenient date.
Meetings with Belarusian Officials and Indian Community
The Indian delegation also met with senior officials from the Belarusian Ministry of Sports and Tourism. They had discussions with representatives of the Indian student community in Belarus to understand their concerns and needs better.
In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), the Indian Embassy in Belarus announced the success of the first-ever Consular Dialogue. They emphasized the discussions on consular issues and the potential for new initiatives to further strengthen the relations between the people of both countries.
The first ever India-Belarus Consular Dialogue was held in Minsk on 28.6.2024. The Indian delegation was led by Dr. Aman Puri, JS (CPV).
The two sides discussed consular issues and possibilities of launching new initiatives to further strengthen people-to-people relations. + pic.twitter.com/1I0v6ql0xw
— India in Belarus (@IndiainBelarus) June 28, 2024
Belarus Supports India’s Initiatives
Earlier in May, the Belarus Ambassador to India, Mikhail Kasko, expressed his country’s support for India’s “Make in India” and “Smart Cities” initiatives. He highlighted the ongoing collaboration in creating modern pharmaceuticals. Belarus and India are working together on establishing joint pharmaceutical production at the scientific and practical center named after Dr. Yusuf Hamied in Minsk, with investments from leading Indian companies like Cipla.
The Belarusian envoy emphasized the strong and growing trade and political ties between Belarus and India. He mentioned that both countries have a constructive political dialogue and that their mutual trade turnover is increasing each year.
The cooperation between businesses in Belarus and India is also active, complementing the efforts of both governments to enhance trade, economic, and investment relations.
Increasing Tourism Between India and Belarus
Tourism between India and Belarus is growing steadily. The number of Belarusian tourists visiting India is increasing, and more Indians are showing interest in exploring Belarusian attractions. This growing tourism is a positive sign of the strengthening ties between the two nations.
The first India-Belarus Consular Dialogue marked a significant step in enhancing consular cooperation and people-to-people relations between the two countries. Both sides are committed to continuing their discussions and working together for the welfare of their citizens and the growth of bilateral ties.
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