Belarus, Colombia interested in advancing cooperation across broad spectrum

Belarus and Colombia are interested in advancing cooperation across a broad spectrum and in enhancing interparliamentary cooperation. The possibilities were discussed as Belarusian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Evgeny Shestakov visited the Republic of Colombia, the ministry's press service told BelTA.

The deputy minister of foreign affairs is in Colombia on a visit on 25-27 October. On the first day Evgeny Shestakov met with President of the Chamber of Representatives of the National Congress of Colombia Jennifer Arias and members of the Colombian parliament's group for friendship with the Belarusian parliament. Interest in advancing Belarus-Colombia cooperation across a broad spectrum was stressed as well as interest in enhancing cooperation between the parliaments.

Evgeny Shestakov also met with Colombian Acting Culture Minister Jose Argote. The sides discussed prospects of reinforcing Belarus-Colombia cultural ties and possibilities of organization of joint exhibitions. A memorandum of understanding between the ministries of culture of Belarus and Colombia was signed as a result of the meeting. The Colombian side was invited to become a permanent participant of international cultural events in Belarus, including the annual art festival Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk.

The same day Evgeny Shestakov participated in the ceremony of opening a Belarusian embassy in Colombia. Representatives of government agencies, the private sector, and the academic community of Colombia were present during the ceremony. Evgeny Shestakov underlined Colombia's importance as Belarus' promising partner in Latin America. He mentioned eagerness to advance the interstate dialogue and constructive cooperation in international organizations as well as the interest in sharing the best practices in various spheres.