Russia And Belarus Move Towards Integration

Vladimir Putin and Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko met to discuss the further integration of Russia Belarus. The presidents said they had made progress toward integrating the economies, The Guardian reports.

Putin said the two leaders had agreed to coordinate the countries’ macroeconomic policies, institute common tax and customs measures, and harmonise other financial controls. These are part of a 28-point roadmap that might increase Russia’s influence over its neighbour.

The presidents have not discussed possible political integration. “First the economic foundation must be laid before moving further on the political track,” Putin said.

The original agreements on the future integration of the two countries were drawn up as part of a 1999 Union State treaty.