Minnikhanov on Eurasian integration: There is a huge collaboration potential

Sergey Naryshkin and Rustam Minnikhanov take part in Eurasian Economic Integration: Achievements and Challenges forum. 

At Eurasian Economic Integration: Achievements and Challenges forum, Sergey Naryshkin, Chairman of Russian State Duma, stated that Eurasian Economic Union may support the continent-wide integration process.

Konstantin Kosachev, Head of Rossotrudnichestvo, Rustam Minnikhanov, President of Tatarstan, Farid Mukhametshin, Chairman of Tatarstan State Council, business and science community members and officials representing 40 public organizations from 18 countries participated in today's plenary meeting.

Sergey Naryshkin pointed out that the idea of Eurasian integration attracts more and more countries; hence, Eurasian Economic Union has to be efficient and mutually beneficial.

Rustan Minnikhanov talked about Tatarstan innovational potential and the projects that are being brought to life, also mentioning the republic's expertise in international relations, vital for Eurasian integration.

He pointed out that the trade turnover between Tatarstan and CIS countries has exceeded 4 billion dollars in 2013. According to Minnikhanov, around 800,000 Tatars live in CIS countries, and Tatarstan keeps in touch with the compatriots. At the same time, thousands of people from across Eurasia live in Tatarstan. The President said that Europe - Western China transport corridor construction will facilitate the development of trade and economic ties between Europe and Asia.

"Despite the high level of interaction, there is still a huge collaboration potential, particular in economy. I am convinced that the current forum will promote integration processes in Eurasia." - stated Tatarstan President.