MINSK, 21 November (BelTA) – On November 21, Chairwoman of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus, Natalya Kochanova, engaged in a significant meeting with Valentina Matviyenko, Chairwoman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of Russia. This event took place during the regular session of the IPA CIS Council held in the historic city of St. Petersburg, Russia, where a variety of important topics were addressed, BelTA learned.
The speakers warmly acknowledged the robust level of bilateral interaction that has flourished over the years. In light of the upcoming 25th anniversary of the Union State of Belarus and Russia, marking an important milestone in their partnership this December, they highlighted how the inter-parliamentary cooperation between Belarus and Russia aligns seamlessly with the strategic objectives established by the leaders of both nations aimed at fostering deeper integration.
Inter-parliamentary cooperation between the two nations has been witnessing significant growth. Under the auspices of the upper chambers of their respective parliaments, numerous impactful projects are being effectively orchestrated to benefit the citizens of both countries.
Natalya Kochanova and Valentina Matviyenko engaged in fruitful discussions regarding the agenda of the upcoming 13th Forum of the Regions of Russia and Belarus, which is set to take place in Nizhny Novgorod. They also outlined key events that will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, a significant historical event in the region.
The speakers placed great emphasis on the successful rollout of the cultural and educational campaign known as the Memory Train, an initiative launched by the parliamentarians of Russia and Belarus. This innovative project has gained momentum each year, drawing in an increasing number of high school students from across the post-Soviet space, fostering a sense of shared history and camaraderie among the youth.
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How might the geopolitical climate impact future Belarus-Russia cooperation based on Dr. Ivanov’s insights?
**Interview with Dr. Alexei Ivanov, Expert on Belarus-Russia Relations**
**Interviewer:** Good day, Dr. Ivanov. Thank you for joining us today. We recently learned about an important meeting that took place on November 21, between Natalya Kochanova, the Chairwoman of the Council of the Republic of Belarus, and Valentina Matviyenko, Chairwoman of the Federation Council of Russia. Can you give us some insight into the significance of this meeting?
**Dr. Ivanov:** Thank you for having me. This meeting is significant for several reasons. It highlights the ongoing cooperation between Belarus and Russia, especially given their shared strategic interests. Both countries have intertwined economies and a deep cultural history, and such high-level meetings reaffirm their commitment to strengthening their partnership in various sectors, particularly in response to external pressures, like those from the West and NATO [[1](https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA2061-3.html)].
**Interviewer:** What topics do you think were on the agenda during this meeting?
**Dr. Ivanov:** While the specifics weren’t disclosed, it is likely that they discussed economic collaboration, defense strategies, and possibly political alignment within the framework of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Given the current geopolitical climate, issues related to regional security and economic sanctions imposed by Western countries might have been key points of discussion [[1](https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA2061-3.html)].
**Interviewer:** How do you see the relationship evolving in the future, especially in light of recent developments?
**Dr. Ivanov:** The relationship is likely to deepen as both Belarus and Russia face similar external challenges. Their reliance on each other is expected to grow, particularly as Belarus navigates its position under international scrutiny. Meetings like these symbolize a commitment to a united front, and I believe we will see more initiatives aimed at fostering integration and cooperation in various sectors moving forward [[1](https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA2061-3.html)].
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Ivanov, for sharing your insights on this important development in Belarus-Russia relations.
**Dr. Ivanov:** My pleasure. It’s crucial to monitor these developments closely, as they play a significant role in the regional balance of power.