Strengthening trade, tourism, cultural exchanges and collaboration in the film industry will be crucial to deepening ties between India and Belarus, Belarus Consul General in Mumbai Aliaksandr Matsukou said in an exclusive interview with AP Globale.
Speaking to journalist Aparna Prabhu Desai on the sidelines of BRICS-related engagements, Matsukou reflected on the history of India-Belarus relations, economic cooperation, cultural connections and opportunities for future collaboration.
Matsukou noted that India was among the first countries to recognise Belarus following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1992. Diplomatic relations between the two nations will mark 35 years next year, a period during which bilateral cooperation has steadily expanded.
"India is not only an important partner for Belarus but also a trusted friend," he said.
Belarus is seeking to expand cooperation beyond engagements with the Indian central government and strengthen ties with individual states, Matsukou said.
As an example of long-standing people-to-people relations, he highlighted the sister-city partnership between Minsk and Bengaluru, which dates back to 1987. Bengaluru is home to a Minsk Square, while the Belarusian capital features a Bengaluru Square.
According to Matsukou, visiting Indian delegations are often surprised to discover the tribute to Bengaluru in the heart of Minsk.
Matsukou said there remains significant scope to expand bilateral trade.
Belarus is among the world's leading producers of potash fertilisers, a commodity that plays an important role in India's agricultural sector. The country also manufactures some of the world's largest mining dump trucks, including models capable of carrying up to 450 tonnes.
He identified agricultural machinery, tractors and industrial equipment as additional sectors with potential for greater cooperation.
While highlighting opportunities, Matsukou acknowledged the challenges facing bilateral trade.
As a landlocked country, Belarus faces logistical and transportation constraints. He also noted that sanctions imposed by several Western countries have affected trade and economic activity.
Despite these challenges, he said Belarus remains committed to strengthening economic ties with India.
Matsukou described Belarus as a potential "hidden gem" for Indian tourists, citing its medieval architecture, historic towns, castles, cultural heritage and modern infrastructure.
He also encouraged Indian filmmakers to consider Belarus as a shooting destination, saying its historic sites and natural landscapes offer diverse filming locations.
The Consul General spoke about the enduring popularity of Indian cinema in Belarus, particularly classic films such as Disco Dancer and Seeta Aur Geeta.
Indian music, dance and cultural traditions continue to enjoy strong recognition among Belarusian audiences and serve as important cultural bridges between the two countries, he said.
Reflecting on Belarus's experience during World War II, Matsukou said the country lost nearly 30% of its population during the conflict. Many towns and cities were devastated, but Belarus undertook extensive reconstruction efforts in the decades that followed and emerged as a modern and developed nation, he said. Preserving the memory of wartime sacrifices remains a deeply rooted part of Belarusian society and national identity, he added.
Matsukou expressed hope that more Indians would learn about Belarus and explore opportunities for engagement with the country.
Greater awareness and understanding between the two nations, he said, could help drive growth in trade, tourism, cinema, arts and cultural exchanges while further strengthening India-Belarus relations in the years ahead.
