Will rouble become Belarus currency?

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov remains convinced of the possibility to introduce the Russian rouble in Belarus as the only national currency in 2005. The Russian premier said this Tuesday, when opening the session of the Russia-Belarus council of ministers.

In his words, measures to introduce the Russian rouble in Belarus will be discussed at the council of ministers session.

Kasyanov added that the session would also highlight efforts to form a common economic space in the union-state. He pointed out the need to unify laws and the entire regulatory base. "I think we can do this," said the premier.

The council of ministers will also discuss the execution of the union-state's 2003 budget and the draft budget for 2004.

Acting Prime Minister of Belarus Sergei Sidorsky earlier met Russian Vice Premier and Finance Minister Alexei Kudrin. The sides managed to settle the differences and work out of a plan of action regarding the circulation of the Russian rouble in Belarus.