April 9, 2009: One of major directions in Russian foreign policy as defined by the President Dmitri Medvedev is building of friendships, increased understanding and strengthening of cooperation ties between the countries of CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States). April 7-9, 2009 Belorussian Vice minister for trade development Vyacheslav Dragun visited Rostov on Don and Taganrog. The Russian and Byelorussian parties discussed the details of the visit of Rostov Oblast's delegation to Minsk in June 2009, and cooperation areas defined by the Protocol for cooperation in 2008-2010.
April 9, 2009 Vyacheslav Dragun visited the city of Taganrog to discuss the establishment of sister city relations between the cities of Taganrog and Pinsk (Belorussia). The Belorussian vice minister was impressed by the cultural heritage of Taganrog and was introduced to preparations and plans for celebrations of Anton Chekhov's 150th anniversary in the home city of the world-known playwright and short-story writer.
