VITEBSK, 2 April (BelTA) - Development of regional ties contribute to the integration of Belarus and Russia in all areas, Deputy Chairman of the Vitebsk City Hall Vladimir Shloma said at the solemn meeting dedicated to the Day of Unity of the people of Belarus and Russia. According to Vladimir Shloma, the present and future of Vitebsk and Vitebsk Oblast cannot be imagined without Russian participation. Vitebsk maintains close and friendly ties with Smolensk, Pskov, Samara, Stupino, Moscow’s district Savelovsky, Gelendzhik and a number of other regions of Russia. Vitebsk takes part in traditional annual fairs in the regions of Russia, joint educational and cultural projects. “Partnership has been achieved in all areas. It has become an important part of our modern life, enriches it, and makes it more interesting and more varied. A wide range of cooperation areas is evidence that our countries share common goals, which are human well-being, protection of their rights, interests of our citizens,” Vladimir Shloma said, noting the importance of the role of the Union State. Today, the Union State is the foundation of the Customs Union, the single economic space. The concept of social development of the Union State for 2011-2015 contributed to positive dynamics of cooperation. Enterprises and organizations of Vitebsk Oblast are actively involved in the Union State programs to develop the Union State external border infrastructure, create the unified automated information system of the Customs Committee of the Union State. “The Day of the Unity of the peoples of Belarus and Russia is a landmark event for residents of our countries. This is sincere holiday of friends who have common interests, who appreciate the common heritage of the Slavonic culture. The holiday celebrates the great goal that the peoples of the two countries aspire to achieve: together build a decent life for present and future generations,” Vladimir Shloma added. Attending the solemn meeting were representatives of local authorities, labor collectives, veterans, youth. Russian artists took part in the concert, which took place in the Vitebsk Regional Philharmonic Hall.

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