Ambitious plans for making Belarusian logging machines in Russia’s Republic of Karelia

The ongoing project to start assembling Belarusian logging machines in Russia’s Republic of Karelia may become an anchor for further advancement of cooperation between Belarus and the Russian region. Head of the Republic of Karelia Artur Parfenchikov made the statement after meeting with State Secretary of the Union State of Belarus and Russia Grigory Rapota in Petrozavodsk on 29 July, BelTA has learned.There are plans to sell products made by the Belarusian-Russian joint venture not only in Russia but also on the international market. “It is a project of European magnitude,” the official said.He reminded that the Petrozavodsk-based Onega tractor factory where the joint venture operates had been on its last legs. “We are grateful that a Belarusian investor has poured money into this project,” Artur Parfenchikov said.The contract the Belarusian has signed is designed to last for ten years and provides for making at least 3,000 machines per annum. The project was backed by the Belarusian government and the Russian Industry Ministry.The project provides for making timber harvesters, forwarders, timber loaders, skidders, and shovel loggers. The project also provides for making various components, including tandem axles, mechanic arms, and harvester heads. An aftersales service center will be established.