High-Level Talks in Moscow
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak held a working meeting with Belarusian Deputy Prime Minister Viktor Karankevich in Moscow on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. The high-level discussions centered on strengthening bilateral cooperation across several key areas, particularly within the framework of the Union State.
Focus on Energy and Economic Ties
A primary focus of the meeting was cooperation in the oil and gas sector, alongside broader trade and economic interaction. The officials reviewed the prospects for collaboration in these vital areas.
Discussions also included the process of Belarusian-Russian integration within the Union State. This encompassed the development of trade and economic ties and partnership in the energy sector.
Gas Agreements and Future Supplies
A significant part of the agenda involved the ongoing negotiations regarding amendments to intergovernmental gas agreements. Specifically, the parties discussed two draft protocols aimed at modifying the November 2011 intergovernmental agreement on natural gas supply terms and the related agreement concerning the sale and purchase of shares and activities of OJSC Beltransgaz (now known as OJSC Gazprom Transgaz Belarus).
Belarusian Prime Minister Alexander Turchin had previously authorized Karankevich to negotiate on these draft protocols. Furthermore, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko approved these draft protocols as the basis for negotiations on January 22. The discussions also touched upon the terms for Russian gas supplies to Belarus for 2026, with previous reports indicating that these terms would be no less favorable than those previously in effect.
Conclusion of the Meeting
The meeting underscored the continued efforts by both nations to deepen their strategic partnership and economic integration, particularly in the crucial energy sector. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to further shape the bilateral relations between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus.
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