Russian governor: Big economy hinges on enterprise-level ties

The entire big economy is built on relationships between very specific enterprises and even very specific people, Acting Bryansk Oblast Governor Yegor Kovalchuk emphasized on the sidelines of the regional business forum Gomel-Bryansk which is taking place in Gomel, BelTA has learned.

The acting governor thanked the Belarusian southeastern region for its warm welcome. “We are closest neighbors. And not just neighbors. We are firmly connected by history, shared memory, common cultural and spiritual values, and a culture of patriotic education. I am confident and very hopeful that it will always be this way,” he said.

Yegor Kovalchuk noted that trade is growing under the existing cooperation agreement between the regions. He expressed confidence that thanks in part to the forum, these figures will only increase.

“Our states - the Republic of Belarus and the Russian Federation - are made up of regions. One way or another, the entire big economy is built on relationships between very specific enterprises and even very specific people. And this forum is precisely the realization of a people-driven economic policy,” the acting governor emphasized in conversation with journalists.

He identified a significant area for development and growth: “I very much hope that we will expand our cooperation in the food and processing industries. Both Gomel Oblast and Bryansk Oblast possess these competencies. Here, we must certainly complement each other and develop together in the export sector.”

Regional cooperation also addresses serious social challenges alongside economic ones, Yegor Kovalchuk added.

“Regarding social partnership, our views align completely. At the forum, we raised the issue of social responsibility among enterprises and entrepreneurs doing business in their respective territories. This is not just about making money. It’s about leaving behind a favorable environment, a good impression, satisfied workforces, and satisfied residents in the territory where you operate. I am confident there are shining examples in Gomel Oblast. As for Bryansk, these are Belarusian developers who are actively implementing multi-story construction projects and taking on serious social obligations, which in turn help Bryansk Oblast solve social problems. This refers to transferring residential apartments to house those in need under various state programs. This is a very good practice, and it is aimed solely at strengthening ties. I am confident it will continue,” the acting governor said.

“Overall, the potential for developing partnerships is very large. There is work to be done. Today, our teams have gathered to set plans for the remainder of 2026 and for 2027–2028. I am confident these plans will be mutually beneficial and interesting,” the acting governor concluded.

On the sidelines of the forum, the potential of the two regions was showcased, including through specific enterprise examples. The parties also signed a number of documents.

 

Photos by Marina Vasilyeva