Russian President Vladimir Putin said the unprecedented political pressure are pushing Russia and Belarus to accelerate the unification processes.

The corresponding appeal to the participants of the IX Forum of Regions of Russia and Belarus is published on the Kremlin website.

"The unprecedented political and sanctions pressure from the so-called 'collective West' is pushing us to speed up the unification processes. After all, together it is easier to minimize the damage from illegal sanctions, it is easier to master the production of products in demand, develop new competencies and expand cooperation with friendly countries," Putin noted.