Cooperation with Minsk in the aircraft industry will help Russia solve problems of import substitution for products from unfriendly countries, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin told Sputnik.
"Russian industrialists are interested in expanding the participation of Belarusian allies both in existing Russian aircraft manufacturing projects and in the creation of joint aircraft. This prospect fully meets the objectives of strengthening technological sovereignty and deepening industrial cooperation in the [Russia-Belarus] Union State," Galuzin said.
He said Belarus has the necessary production base and human resources.
“There is no doubt that interaction with Belarusian allies in the field of aircraft construction will help solve the problems of import substitution for foreign products from unfriendly states and ultimately create aviation equipment that is safe and competitive on foreign markets,” he noted.
Galuzin said effective interaction has already been established with Minsk Civil Aviation Plant No. 407, which produces components for the Russian MC-21 medium-range aircraft.
"The plans are to increase the volume of orders and expand the range of products manufactured for the airliner at Belarusian enterprises," he said.
The official said Russia and Belarus are working on a joint project to produce light aircraft, which are in high demand, to create an extensive network of interregional air routes that meets today’s requirements.
He also said the possibility of joint production and servicing of nine-seat Baikal aircraft is being worked out.