Former Belshina CEO Resurfaces in Russia to Oversee Murmansk Port Construction

The former CEO of Belshina, previously reported detained in Belarus, has resurfaced in Russia to oversee the construction of a new cargo port in Murmansk. The Murmansk region has signed an agreement with Arctic Gate Marine Terminal LLC to construct a Belarusian terminal for transshipment of goods with a capacity of 25-30 million tons per year.

The port, located on the western shore of the Kola Bay, is set to be a large, strategic project that will provide new jobs and investments for the Murmansk region. While private investments will be used for the construction, the development of the port may involve a public-private partnership in the future.

Designed as a multimodal facility, the port will handle various types of cargo, including bulk, petroleum products, and a container terminal. The first shipments are expected to arrive in 2028, signifying a noteworthy achievement in Belarus' strategic direction to gain access to a non-freezing port.

Why this matters: The construction of the Belarusian cargo port in Murmansk represents a significant geopolitical development, as it strengthens economic ties between Belarus and Russia. The project also highlights Belarus' efforts to diversify its trade routes and reduce its dependence on ports in neighboring countries.

Preparations for the implementation of this project have already begun, with the former Belshina CEO taking a leading role in overseeing the construction process. The port's development is expected to create a significant number of jobs and attract substantial investments to the Murmansk region, potentially boosting the local economy and fostering further cooperation between Belarus and Russia in the Arctic.

Key Takeaways

• Former Belshina CEO oversees construction of Belarusian cargo port in Murmansk, Russia.
• Port to have 25-30 million ton capacity, handle diverse cargo, and provide jobs/investments.
• Project strengthens Belarus-Russia economic ties, diversifies Belarus' trade routes.
• Preparations underway, with former Belshina CEO in a leading role in construction.
• Port expected to boost Murmansk economy and deepen Belarus-Russia cooperation in the Arctic.