Łukašenka urges Israel to restore passenger air service with Belarus

April 26, BPN. The resumption of regular flights between Belarus and Israel could improve trade and economic cooperation, people-to-people contacts and cultural exchange, says Alaksandr Łukašenka’s congratulatory message to Israeli President Isaac Herzog on the 75th anniversary of Israel’s independence.

Belarus is interested in expanding cooperation in trade, investments, industry, agriculture, high-tech sector, medicine, science and tourism, Łukašenka’s press service reported.

In May 2022, Ihar Čarhiniec, head of the Belarusian flagship carrier Belavia, announced the suspension of regular flights between Minsk and Tel Aviv after an Israeli operator’s refusal to service Belavia’s aircraft.

Belarus and Israel established diplomatic relations in May 1992. In 2021, bilateral trade in goods amounted to $149.1 million, with Belarusian exports at $104.4 million and Israeli imports at $44.7 million. Belarus had a surplus of $84.8 million in trade in services, which totaled $125.4 million.