Belarus president Alexander Lukashenko stressed the importance of ensuring that companies purchase and use products that are made in Belarus whenever possible over those that are imported.

He also said it is important to support local manufacturers while keeping the nation open to trade and other opportunities abroad.

“But we must understand we have established such production facilities in recent years. Naturally, time is needed to fine-tune the equipment,” Lukashenko said. “I know that Minsk authorities have imported equipment for municipal services. The plant producing Belarusian tractors is here. It will immediately repair all spare (parts).”

A special session will be held, according to the Belarus press service, to discuss these and related issues and products.

“We are not members of the (World Trade Organization); we do not have obligations before them," Lukashenko said as he addressed top officials. "Let’s protect our domestic market.”