Minsk, September 17, 2024 — The Europe Today: Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko met with Vladimir Orlovsky, Chairman of the Belarusian State Customs Committee, on September 16 to discuss critical issues related to customs operations, cargo transit, and national security, as reported by News Hub Consultants via BelTA.
The discussion focused on several key matters, beginning with the impact of Western sanctions and Belarus’ strategic economic shift towards the East. President Lukashenko expressed interest in how customs authorities are facilitating cargo transit and supporting Belarusian enterprises amid these challenges. “Customs officers are working in a completely different environment today, especially after the deterioration of relations with the West. How is the reorientation of commodity flows to the east progressing, and how does customs play a role?” Lukashenko inquired.
The second major point raised was the role of customs payments in replenishing the national budget. Lukashenko emphasized the importance of this issue, asking for updates on recent developments compared to previous years.
Security and anti-smuggling measures were also on the agenda. Lukashenko stressed the importance of customs in ensuring both state and citizen security, asking for a detailed overview of the current situation regarding smuggling.
In light of border checkpoint closures by neighboring Western countries, Lukashenko requested Orlovsky’s assessment of the situation on the Belarusian-Ukrainian border and how it compares to the western borders. Currently, only five of 26 road checkpoints are operational, with closures impacting trade and transit.
The president concluded the meeting by inviting Orlovsky to discuss any additional issues, including personnel matters, that may impact the State Customs Committee’s future operations.
