Miory Regional Executive Committee
The working schedule of the President of Belarus is always very eventful. Alexander Lukashenko holds meetings and working sessions on the most pressing issues of the country's development, regularly visits regions, makes foreign visits and receives foreign guests himself, communicates with journalists, and signs decrees and laws. And even when there are no public events, it does not mean that the head of state is not working. However, even during his leisure time, be it a hockey practice or chopping wood, Alexander Lukashenko always finds an occasion for another assignment. As he likes to say, one must always proceed from life.
The "President's Week" project is for those who want to keep pace with the head of state, to be aware of the most relevant statements and decisions of the Belarusian leader.
Is there potential in relations with Kazakhstan and what experience from this country is Belarus "taking note of"; how is the preparation for the upcoming large-scale election campaign in 2024 progressing; why is it important to stick together in the CSTO and the post-Soviet space as a whole, and how is this related to the "American thorn" in Europe; what tasks did Lukashenko set for the government and how did the drought affect agriculture; what did the President say in his farewell address to graduates.
And also about a tense Saturday against the backdrop of an attempted military mutiny in Russia. How Lukashenko's negotiations with the head of PMC "Wagner" Yevgeny Prigozhin helped overcome the acute phase and find peaceful solutions - in the next issue of the BELTA special project "President's Week".
THERE IS ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT. How Lukashenko assesses relations with Kazakhstan
The head of state began his working week with a meeting on June 19 with the Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu, who was on a visit to Belarus.
"We can state today that the relations between Belarus and Kazakhstan are at a very high level, but, as athletes say, there is room for improvement," the President said.
In Belarus, according to the head of state, they are closely observing the transformation process of governance institutions and society in Kazakhstan and "taking a lot of notes".
"You should know that Belarus has always been your friend, and you can count on us here if you need to," the head of state emphasized.
Alexander Lukashenko particularly stressed the value of reliable friends in the modern world. He noted that many integration structures, in particular the CSTO and the EAEU, were formed with the participation of Belarus and Kazakhstan. "Kazakhstan has always played an important role in the formation of these structures, in their activities. Just like Belarus," the President pointed out.
"Kazakhstan, Russia, and Belarus – looking ahead, I see such an attractive center for other states. I recently spoke about this: one cannot hope that some rich neighbor will come and help us. Unfortunately, the world today is selfish, nationalistic. You (ministers of foreign affairs) see this better than I do. Therefore, at least at the present moment, we must rely on ourselves and on our friends who will always come to our aid and support," the Belarusian leader emphasized.
Murat Nurtleu particularly noted the hospitality with which he was met in Belarus. "I believe I have come to friends. Today, for me, this is a huge opportunity to convey our message to our Belarusian brothers, friends, that Kazakhstan highly values our strategic partnership," he stated. "We are absolutely committed to the further development of our friendly, fraternal relations."
PEOPLE'S CHOICE. What directives did the President give for the upcoming 2024 electoral campaign
On June 19, Alexander Lukashenko also met with the Chairman of the Central Election Commission Igor Karpenko. They discussed preparations for the 2024 electoral campaign.
In 2024, Belarus will hold a unified voting day for the first time, as stipulated in the updated Constitution. Not only will the parliament be formed, but citizens will also elect deputies to local councils of various levels. It is stipulated that the unified voting day is held on the last Sunday of February. In 2024, this is February 25.
Another feature is the formation of the All-Belarusian People's Assembly, a body that, following the referendum, acquired constitutional status in Belarus. The Constitution stipulates that the first meeting of the All-Belarusian People's Assembly must take place no later than 60 days after the unified voting day. Thus, the last possible day for the start of the ABN Assembly's work is April 25.
On the preparation of the President's decree
"We are already on the eve of the elections. There is a lot of novelty. Especially in terms of the All-Belarusian People's Assembly. We are talking about parliamentary elections and the corresponding Presidential decree. I have familiarized myself with the materials you have provided. There is no rejection of any of the issues. Especially regarding the issuance of the decree. I will instruct the Presidential Administration today to sit down together, work through, and develop together (and involve the government) the optimal deadlines for adopting this decree," said the head of state.
"I think your proposal in this regard is reasonable. You didn't come up with it alone. You probably suffered for it before making the proposal. Therefore, the issue of issuing the decree on elections is considered resolved," said Alexander Lukashenko.
On interaction with state bodies
Another issue discussed at the working meeting with the head of state concerned interaction with state bodies during the preparation and conduct of the electoral campaign.
"You are proposing very correctly. Nothing needs to be discarded. We have extensive experience and practice in holding elections in terms of engaging authorities and other state bodies. Everything is at your disposal. You are responsible for the organization. And all state bodies and structures, including myself, will help you implement the plan that we have all agreed upon together," said the Belarusian leader.
"The unified voting day is also a novelty. We are electing all councils vertically. Therefore, there will be enough work. We will carry out this work unhurriedly and calmly," the President is confident.
On Information Support
"As for information support, there is also a lot of experience. But there is also a lot of new things. We need to use the internet and create new content, as you suggest. This also needs to be done to make it convenient for people," said Alexander Lukashenko.
According to him, this work should be done, starting from inviting voters, including sending SMS messages.
On Fair Elections and Observers
The head of state touched upon the issue of inviting observers to the upcoming elections in 2024. "The subjects that invite observers are defined by law. We have nothing to hide. At the right time, when the deadline approaches, when we deem it necessary, we will invite observers. So that they can see how the elections will take place. So that we are not reproached for holding elections like in America. And they shoot people after the elections, and they conduct elections by mail, and so on. And there are a lot of falsifications. This is already visible today. We must hold these elections honestly," the President said.
Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that there is nothing to hide. "About 80% unequivocally support the course we have set today. What do we have to fear? Well, we will still fight for the 20% who are wavering and who are against it. I am saying this as President," the head of state noted.
On the Formation of the All-Belarusian People's Assembly
Separately, the head of state drew attention to such a novelty as the formation of the All-Belarusian People's Assembly.
"We are laying a certain foundation in this matter. We are gaining experience. We need to approach this very carefully. A lot is defined in the Constitution and in laws: the number of delegates, how to elect them, from whom to elect them, and so on. There are no disputes here. We also need to hold open and honest elections to the Всебелорусское народное собрание (All-Belarusian People's Assembly), the President said. - There will be different people there. I am sure there will be different points of view. The only thing is that there will be no enemies there. And we don't need enemies. Our society doesn't need them either. And there should be different points of view so that we make the right decisions."
Summing up, Alexander Lukashenko said: "Having familiarized myself with your written report and proposals, I, for example, do not see any other approaches. We need to start this work now."
STRENGTH IN UNITY. WHAT LUKASHENKO DISCUSSED WITH THE CSTO MINISTERS OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
On June 20, the President of Belarus met with the ministers of foreign affairs of the CSTO member states. The leitmotif of the head of state's speech was a call to strengthen integration between the countries participating in the organization, for whom it is now more important than ever to stick together. By the way, Belarus currently presides over this organization under the motto "Through solidarity and cooperation to peace and security."
On Important Statements for Influential People
This meeting was the third one the President held in recent weeks with the heads of state structures of various integration associations: on June 1, he met with the heads of CIS special services, and on June 8, with the secretaries of the CSTO Security Councils. Both then and now, Alexander Lukashenko emphasized the importance of preserving these interstate structures, addressing those people who have a certain influence on political decision-making in their countries.
"We are needed by no one except that post-Soviet space which exists today after the collapse of the Soviet Union. In fact, we speak the same language, we have a common economy, we have common markets, industrial cooperation and so on. To create this, neither our lifetime nor our children's lifetime will be enough. And why break it? Why break this common market?" - the President asked a rhetorical question at a meeting on June 1.
"The military-political situation around our Commonwealth is becoming increasingly acute, and it will become more acute. And we must understand that the major players around us - Russia, Belarus, the Central Asian states - will gradually try to pull us apart. Both by hook and by crook. We must not allow this, gentlemen. This is my firm point of view," Alexander Lukashenko added then.
That is precisely why - to prevent discord in integration structures - the President of Belarus has repeatedly called for finding peaceful ways to resolve conflicts and reiterated this on June 8 to the secretaries of the CSTO Security Councils: "For God's sake, do not quarrel with each other. We will still have opportunities to quarrel with many: you see how they are trying to pull us apart."
In this series of events, today's meeting of the head of state with the CSTO Foreign Ministers looks like a systematic continuation of Belarus's work to strengthen integration structures in the post-Soviet space. What explains such persistence? The fact that this is a very difficult time for the CSTO, and it requires maximum mobilization of forces, experience, and resources to preserve peace.
On problems and their solutions
One of the shortcomings for which the CSTO is criticized is, according to the President, the lack of solutions to specific problems. For example, Kyrgyzstan has long been asking for help in resolving the conflict on the border with Tajikistan, and Armenia is also making claims. "I will say that problems exist. And very serious problems. If we do not solve these problems, we will constantly blame each other, express dissatisfaction with the functioning of the organization as a whole. Problems exist to be solved. Therefore, no matter how we twist and turn, we must be immersed in those problems that are being solved today by Armenia, a member of the CSTO, and Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, members of the CSTO," said Alexander Lukashenko.
"There are problems, there are tasks, they must be solved, no matter how difficult and complex they may be," he added. "We must solve issues that are no longer just standing in one state or another, but that are already crying out." If this is not done now, there is a danger that "friendly advisors" from the West will interfere, and then it may be too late.
On the reason for sticking together
As the head of state noted, areas of responsibility have been formed within the CSTO during its existence: "On the western flank of the CSTO, if one can say so, real military threats to security have unfortunately formed for us and for Russia (because this is our area of responsibility). They are very serious, more serious than anywhere else. It is restless in the Transcaucasus and Central Asia (and who knows what else will happen)."
"Full-scale hybrid wars have been unleashed against sovereign countries that do not follow the dictates of the West," the head of state called attention to. "We have all experienced this. Sometimes we do not learn from our experiences and begin to step on the same rake in a new way."
"The evolving global situation leaves us with no doubt that we must stick together," the Belarusian leader stated. He is convinced that there is no reason to rush decisions on withdrawing from any integration associations, as Ukraine or Georgia did with the CIS at one time. "Take Georgia's example. You see some changes in their policy: they've had their fill of Western promises and so on, and now they want to return to our market because no one will let you into their markets with milk, meat, or wine. Markets have long been divided, and there's a fierce fight for them. And the second reason why we must stick together is our established market. If they offer anything abroad, it means in exchange for resources (give up resources – and we'll support you) or for some policy (if you follow them around, click your heels, and support the policies they pursue)," the head of state explained.
On the American "Awl" in Europe
Using obvious examples, the President proved that hasty decisions to withdraw from integration associations are not the best option for a country and its people. "We must stick together, especially in these difficult times. And it's not because the main pillar of our organization, Russia, is in a difficult situation. Russia is a part, an element of everything that is happening in the world," said Alexander Lukashenko.
According to him, there are problems of global significance in the African region, and between China and Taiwan, and between the USA and Europe. "The Americans have split Europe, and now they need to bring it to heel. And they, the Europeans, reproach you (CSTO countries. - BELTA's note) and me, including, for losing sovereignty here and so on. God be with you! You lost it long ago. How can one assess and how can one relate to the fact that they abandoned cheap energy resources from Russia and are buying them at 3-5 times the price? What is this? They were bent over, an awl was inserted in the right place, and only a little is left for them to collapse and lie on the ground. And they still reproach someone for losing sovereignty! What sovereignty? A fierce fight, a battle is going on on a global scale. It's unknown how it will end," said Alexander Lukashenko.
"In this large-scale confrontation, we must preserve what is ours, at least preserve it," the head of state emphasized. This thesis acquired particular relevance during the period of countering sanctions pressure, against the backdrop of which Belarus and Russia joined forces, managed not only to withstand but also to give a powerful impetus to the development of their own technologies, industrial cooperation, and import substitution.
"Let's not lose this. You won't find anything outside our space (post-Soviet. - BELTA note) - that's my point of view," the head of state said.
On a common past, present, and future for the CSTO
Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that the CSTO countries have a strong historical basis on which their interaction is built. This is a common past, connected, among other things, with the defense of the Soviet Union during the Great Patriotic War. As well as a common present and future. "We have a common present, which we are shaping together. The successful work of integration associations in the post-Soviet space is confirmation of this. Assessing the busy international agenda in our zone of responsibility, I am confident that we also have a common future, which depends only on us," the Belarusian leader stated.
A number of positive examples of cooperation can be found in the work of integration associations in the post-Soviet space. Thus, at the last meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council in Moscow, issues of harmonizing integration processes, creating alternative payment systems, and developing transport infrastructure were discussed. In the same vein, a decision was made to launch a mechanism for joint financing of projects in the field of industrial cooperation within the Eurasian Economic Commission. This, according to the President, is a crucial step in strengthening economic and trade industrial sovereignty.
"In the CIS, we have the widest range of interaction - from humanitarian issues to interregional and cross-border cooperation, inter-parliamentary ties," Alexander Lukashenko continued. "The CSTO, as a guarantor of stability and security for our countries and the Eurasian region as a whole, cannot lag behind."
The President considers the close ties between the CSTO countries in the political, military, economic, social, and other spheres to be a guarantee of lasting peace between them and the basis of their unity in the international arena. "It is difficult to say today what the world order will be like. However, it is clear that only those who maintain cohesion will be able to get through this difficult stage with the least shocks. That is why we are increasingly talking about the need for greater integration within our organization," the Belarusian leader emphasized.
On the Action Plan in the Economy
To strengthen integration, the President proposed developing a common action plan for the CSTO: "We need to understand that we will be pressured. Even if the conflict in Ukraine ends, they will not leave us alone. We need to develop a common plan of action, primarily in the economy."
One of the main goals of this plan should be to move away from dependence on imported products. "We will consider ourselves in isolation, like the Soviet Union. But we must survive, we must determine what we can produce ourselves (we can produce almost everything, about 90%), and we will somehow purchase the remaining 10% until we get rid of import dependence," the head of state clarified.
According to him, Belarus and Russia have already come close to developing such a plan in a bilateral format and intend to implement it. "I think we are not far from the President of Russia in creating this plan together. Of course, our self-sufficiency will not be 90%, but let's say 80%. We have no other way. Just floundering, swaying from side to side and hoping that someone will come to us again, create something, and then leave – we don't have time for that," the President stated.
What Belarus is Ready to Do to Strengthen the CSTO
"Solidarity, unity, and cooperation are at the core of our chairmanship concept in the CSTO," the head of state noted. He expressed gratitude to the member states of the organization for supporting the priorities of the Belarusian chairmanship in the CSTO, which, as the President is confident, meet common interests.
"We proceed from the fact that the most important area today is the settlement of crises in the CSTO zone. If assistance is needed from Belarus, and in this case - our initiatives, they will be provided. In order to restore and strengthen trust between our partners, we will do everything," emphasized Alexander Lukashenko. "The CSTO is not an aggressive or offensive military-political bloc. It is an organization of an exclusively defensive nature with a creative and unifying agenda."
On the Aggressive Hysteria of the West and Voices of Reason
Regarding the interaction of the CSTO with other organizations (for example, the UN, the SCO), according to the President, work here also needs to be intensified, and the CSTO should speak more often on international platforms so that this voice is heard. "Of course, they don't want to hear us. We are like a bone in someone's throat: sometimes NATO, sometimes the European Union, sometimes the Americans along with them. But nevertheless, our voice as a military-political bloc must be heard," Alexander Lukashenko noted.
Another aspect the head of state dwelled on is the need to enhance the information and analytical capabilities of the CSTO: "Today, we are all in the zone of information and psychological warfare operations, we feel this particularly acutely, including Russia recently. And you too. We cannot escape this. We need to learn to increase our efforts in the information and analytical field and in cooperation with the media."
"Today, aggressive hysteria, primarily in the West, is drowning out (for now) the voices of wisdom and reason. They do not want to hear initiatives, including those from Belarus, aimed at restoring trust and strengthening regional and international security," said the Belarusian leader.
"We cannot rely solely on the fact that common sense will eventually prevail. We must not relax, and all efforts must be directed towards strengthening and further progressive development of our organization," the President emphasized. "I am absolutely convinced that the collective diplomatic voice of the CSTO will make a significant contribution to restoring peace and security in the region."
Alexander Lukashenko expressed confidence that these and other pressing issues would be reflected in the agenda of the CSTO Heads of State Summit, which will be held in November 2023 in Minsk.
LIVING MEMORY. WHAT WORDS THE PRESIDENT ADDRESSED TO HIS COMPATRIOTS
By tradition, on June 22, Alexander Lukashenko addressed his compatriots on the occasion of the Day of National Remembrance of the Victims of the Great Patriotic War and the Genocide of the Belarusian People.
"Today, all of Belarus remembers the tragic events of June 22, 1941. In the early morning, the war treacherously invaded our home, ruthlessly destroying destinies, families, cities, and villages. For more than three years, the Belarusian land literally groaned from the atrocities of the Nazis. Every third resident of the country perished in the destructive fire of war," the address reads.
Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that inhuman cruelty did not break the will of our people: "The defense of their native land united the entire civilian population of the republic in a general resistance to fascism. Our grandfathers and great-grandfathers were subjected to torture and terror, but they preserved their honor and dignity."
"Decades of prosperous life later, a situation has again arisen on the planet where the fabric of peacetime is about to tear. Another wrong step by cynical Western politicians could be the last for the majority of humanity. Knowing firsthand the horrors of war and the price of victory, the Belarusian people preserve historical truth, strengthen state sovereignty and national unity for the sake of peace on their native land," the head of state noted.
EXPANDED FORMAT. WHAT LUKASHENKO DEMANDS FROM THE GOVERNMENT AND WHAT INSTRUCTIONS HE GAVE
On June 22, the President of Belarus held a meeting with the leadership of the Council of Ministers. The head of state meets with the government periodically to discuss the economy's performance. This time, the meeting was held in an expanded format to discuss other issues as well: from attracting investments and the situation in agriculture to road construction and the social sphere.
On the initial results of the economy's performance
Opening the meeting, Alexander Lukashenko noted that the gross domestic product reached 100.9% in five months. "We are observing a return to positive growth rates for investment in fixed assets, an increase of 2.5% compared to last year. However, this is still a weak foundation for fulfilling the set tasks even for the half-year," he said.
The President asked the Prime Minister whether all indicators had shown positive dynamics, and whether last year's difficulties (logistical and transaction costs, search for new partners and markets) had been fully overcome. He also inquired about the progress in achieving targeted goals.
"From the First Deputy Prime Minister, I expect a detailed breakdown of where the government sees reserves for increasing investment growth by the end of the year, which is as much as 120%. And also about the effectiveness of implementing the 'one district - one project' concept," the head of state added.
Regarding the situation in industry, Alexander Lukashenko noted good results, but warehouse stocks are above 76%. "There are no qualitative shifts in woodworking. Work on mastering the Russian loan for integration projects is moving slowly. Report on the measures taken to rectify the situation," the President said.
On investments and a thematic bill
The head of state was presented with a bill on promoting and stimulating the implementation of investment projects. According to the developers, it will help to rectify the situation and increase the volume of investments. As the President stated at the meeting, the document needs to be carefully studied before being sent to parliament.
"In essence, the presented law replaces Decree No. 10, which served as the legal basis for almost 15 years," the head of state noted. "At one time, it was a breakthrough document. Over the past years, representatives of 20 countries have invested over $8 billion. More than a thousand projects have been successfully implemented."
However, in recent years, the volume of investments, both foreign and domestic, has been declining, which negatively affects the economy's performance, Alexander Lukashenko pointed out.
"Of course, any country today strives to provide investors with attractive conditions. We must also create competitive advantages so that money is invested in promising, high-tech, innovative industries right here, in Belarus," the President said. "I am not against reasonable innovations, I am always ready to support them. However, report specifically on the essence and expected effect. Who is the bill aimed at?"
"In the current geopolitical circumstances, it is difficult to count on Western investors coming into the Belarusian economy. Let's focus on others: Eastern, Asian, African, and so on," Alexander Lukashenko noted. "And we must also work with Western investors, we should not reject them outright."
At the same time, the President recalled an important rule: social responsibility must prevail in any project - full employment for workers, decent wages, a comprehensive social package, and, of course, tax payments.
"Just to come here, as they used to say, and suck all the juice out of the people, to squeeze out everything possible, paying some pittance (not paying taxes, but paying workers, say, $500), and to withdraw the main profit in the form of dividends to unfriendly countries. I don't think we need such projects," Alexander Lukashenko emphasized. "We need to come here not as to a banana republic, but as to a normal, high-tech, highly developed country, and we must work primarily with our own investors."
On the situation in agriculture under the current weather conditions
Characterizing the situation in agriculture, the President noted that due to the lack of rain, the soil has dried out not throughout the country, but in certain areas. "It's just here, near Turchin (Governor of the Minsk Region. - BELTA's note), who has sinned before the Lord God, and around me (I don't know what I've sinned in), where I live, on higher soils, of course, it has dried out," Alexander Lukashenko remarked.
However, this is by no means a reason for all responsible persons to cry and say in advance that the agricultural year will be a failure, the President is convinced. "I understand what is happening. Yes, it has dried up in certain areas. First of all, grains and grasses have suffered a little," he said.
In this regard, the head of state gave timely instructions to the government, including on the reseeding of fodder grasses, for which the situation causes the greatest concern, unlike grains. "If we get a shortfall of some quantity, 200-300 thousand tons of grain, today there is a surplus among our neighbors. We will always buy grain. Moreover, grain is offered today at very low prices, sometimes even below our cost. It even makes sense to buy," believes Alexander Lukashenko.
"That is, there is no catastrophe, and the Deputy Prime Minister in charge of agriculture acknowledges this. It's just that now we need to orient ourselves in time where it has dried up," the head of state emphasized, adding about the importance of strict adherence to the technological process in agriculture, which allows preserving crops and obtaining harvests even in difficult weather conditions.
On road maintenance
"Another sensitive issue: our citizens are very concerned about the quality of roads. What can we say, everyone drives cars, some have two or three per family," the President said. - Yes, there was a time when Belarus reached a high level in terms of road surface condition and became an example for many in the post-Soviet space. But as soon as control was slightly relaxed, the situation began to deteriorate."
During a working trip to the Grodno region in April this year, Alexander Lukashenko already drew attention to the number of public complaints on this issue. "The relevant Deputy Prime Minister has been tasked to put all roads in order and repair them throughout 2023. This is a paramount issue," emphasized Alexander Lukashenko.
On state regulation in construction
The head of state recalled that back in January of this year, the government was tasked with simplifying the construction process, as it had been done previously for individual houses.
"Regarding the private sector, I was informed that most problems - with access to communications, documentation, and so on - have been resolved and people are satisfied. Good, if so. But I doubt it. We will check this in the near future. I wouldn't want the conversation to be similar to healthcare later," the President remarked.
"In order to start building a multi-story building, a factory, an industrial facility, one needs to collect a dozen or two technical specifications from energy companies, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, sanitary stations, local authorities, and others. And as many certificates are needed later at the end of construction," the head of state continued. "We need to see if, in some areas, we can abandon some certificates."
Alexander Lukashenko instructed the relevant Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Architecture and Construction to work on this issue: "Sit down together and get it done."
Continuing the topic of multi-apartment building construction, the President asked why the problem with unfinished construction projects cannot be solved once and for all. "There are currently 20 residential buildings in this disgraceful status, of which, Natalya Ivanovna (Kachanova, Chairperson of the Council of the Republic and the President's authorized representative in Minsk. - BELTA's note), you have 17 in Minsk with Kukharev (Mayor of Minsk. - BELTA's note)!" the President pointed out.
On assignments in the field of education
At the meeting, Alexander Lukashenko noted that social block issues have been topping all news headlines for the past few weeks. "It seems we have dealt with the results of the centralized exams. The admission campaign is underway. In the autumn, as agreed, we will analyze its results and finally dot the i's," he recalled.
"We cannot return to education issues anymore," the head of state believes. "We cannot constantly beat up the teaching staff and local teachers, as well as parents, on education matters."
The President stressed that final proposals should be submitted in the autumn: from textbooks, new, effective, sensible, with writing and creation, to higher education, as well as final exams, basic schools, secondary schools, and admission to universities. "All issues must be settled," said Alexander Lukashenko.
On the situation in healthcare and rental housing for medical workers
Recently, the head of state held a meeting on problematic issues in medicine. "The tasks are clear and specific. There should be no instances of mismanagement and unprofessionalism in the sphere responsible for the nation's health," the President demanded.
"At the same time, I warned, and the minister and the government know this, the commission is working. True, it has been overwhelmed with complaints, as if it were a new ministry center, a new ministry. I want to address the people and ask them not to overload the commission, its members (and there are 12-13 of them) with issues that should be resolved by other authorities - local authorities, the government, the ministry. They, of course, react to this, but they cannot replace everyone," noted Alexander Lukashenko.
He also touched upon the topic of local medicine: "All governors rushed to put dust in people's eyes. They repaired FAPs, district hospitals, allocated funds, and vigorous repairs began. This needs to be done, I'm not against it, but we need to understand that FAPs and district hospitals must function. And people must be satisfied."
The head of state continued: "Today we are returning to the instruction to grant medical workers the right to acquire rental housing as their property." He recalled that at one time rental housing was created to solve problems in some cases, and now it is proposed to make part of this housing ordinary, and a corresponding draft decree has been prepared.
Alexander Lukashenko raised the question in this regard: "Why was this rental housing created? People built it, bought it, let them build and buy. But if we create rental housing, why sell it? I'm just raising the question, let's discuss it."
At the same time, the President expressed words of gratitude to the medical workers: "They, of course, are great in their vast majority, they treat us, they deserve attention."
Along with this, the head of state believes that the consideration of the issue should be postponed for now, and explained the reasons for this. "This proposal came after a huge number of shortcomings were identified in the healthcare sector. Therefore, the time is not quite right. I think we need to return to this issue," said Alexander Lukashenko. "Let's see how healthcare pulls itself together and organizes the decisions that I have determined. The details of providing rental housing for ownership will be considered when the ministers and the government report that all shortcomings have been eliminated, then we will consider this issue."
At the same time, the President noted that there are other categories of workers who live in rental housing and can also raise similar issues.
On child benefits and negligent parents
During the meeting, Alexander Lukashenko touched upon the issue of the use of child benefits. The President noted that the state spends considerable funds, but there are parents who simply drink this money away.
"We allocate considerable funds to support children," the head of state noted. "Currently, in almost 10,000 families, children are recognized as being in a socially dangerous situation. 10,000 families cannot properly look after their children. Negligent parents simply drink away child benefits, and children suffer."
Alexander Lukashenko demanded that child benefits reach the children, and not go to parents for alcohol, and all due measures should be taken for this. In this regard, the head of state emphasized: "The system must be set up clearly - children should not be deprived in any case, and irresponsible parents must be brought to their senses."
On the organization of the II Games of the CIS countries and focus on results
Alexander Lukashenko set the task to hold the II CIS Games at the highest level. The competitions will be held from August 4 to 14 in 11 cities of Belarus. "In the current conditions, this sports festival acquires special significance for Belarusian athletes and a wide range of our friends who have confirmed their participation," the head of state noted.
He also demanded: "We need not just to hold the Games at the highest level, we must once again show that Belarus is an open and peace-loving country, where comfortable and safe conditions are created for people."
"But the main thing is what result we will show," Alexander Lukashenko is confident. - We have no moral right to perform poorly at these Games."
On the situation in the markets and new productions
Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko reported on the economic situation. According to him, in five months, the economy has reached the target growth trajectory. The foreign trade balance for January-April amounted to $203 million. It is expected that its volume will increase by the end of the first half of the year.
The largest contribution to GDP growth was ensured by the increase in value added in industry.
The head of state inquired about the availability of warehouse stocks at enterprises. According to the President, he is concerned about the current situation and wants to understand how serious this issue is.
Roman Golovchenko noted that there is a problem with the sale of certain types of dairy products. Products worth almost $400 million are in warehouses. According to him, this situation is primarily due to the price factor in foreign markets, as well as the growth in productivity in the main market - Russia.
"But specialists say that this is not tragic, it is a temporary phenomenon: the price in the Chinese and, in general, in the Asian market has started to rise. And in general, we are working on changing our development strategy for the dairy and milk processing industry," said Roman Golovchenko.
The Head of State emphasized that one should not focus on one or two markets, but rather expand to other countries. Moreover, it is not only about exporting the same dry milk, but also about building small processing plants in other countries to produce other types of dairy products. "We need to enter other markets, we cannot stay in one or two markets today," he stressed.
According to the Prime Minister, there are large warehouse stocks at some industrial enterprises as well. In particular, a serious problem for "Atlant" has been the decline in demand in Russia for Belarusian refrigerators and freezers. This is due to both the generally low level of sales of durable goods in that country and the massive entry of new manufacturers into the Russian market, primarily from China. "Atlant" has decided for now to make a maneuver: to reduce the production of refrigerators and focus on the production of washing machines, the demand for which is currently high.
"We probably missed the moment a little, because the capacities vacated by unfriendly countries are gradually being replaced by Russian and Chinese manufacturers. Together with the Ambassador to Russia, we analyzed the capacities that are still available in Russia, currently abandoned, if one can say so. We need to select and actively enter these areas now in order to organize production, forming a profit center there and supplying components and equipment from Belarus," said Roman Golovchenko.
"This is a strategy. We discussed it, there is nothing new in it. Not only in Russia - we need to create our own capacities and production wherever possible, if it is profitable for us, and act," emphasized Alexander Lukashenko.
Summing up the meeting, the President stated that the government and the economy are currently functioning, but there are problems that could seriously affect the future situation. The Head of State noted that these problems need to be identified and resolved in a timely manner. At the same time, Alexander Lukashenko reiterated his demand: no talk of sanctions, they cannot serve as an excuse. Also, the President believes, it is worth seeking more potential in the governors.
"I am far from saying that everyone failed. But there are issues and there are problems that must be addressed," Alexander Lukashenko summarized.
A REASON FOR PRIDE. HOW LUKASHENKO AWARDED AND GUIDED UNIVERSITY GRADUATES
On June 23, the Head of State presented special certificates of the President of Belarus's Commendation to graduates and teachers of higher education institutions. The solemn ceremony took place on June 23 at the Palace of Independence.
"Today is a significant day for you, for the country, and for me as President. Your achievements bring joy and inspire," the President said, opening the ceremony. Congratulating the graduates, he noted that they are opening a new chapter of adult life, which begins brightly and with dignity. And today, teachers are hearing words of gratitude for their hard work and skill.
"There is a certain symbolism in this ceremony. You are only taking your first step into the profession, and you are already sharing moments of glory on par with high-level professionals. This means you are ahead of your time. This is good, and you should maintain this path. This is a great trust and an advance, which I am convinced you will justify," said the Head of State.
Each of those who received the award excelled in their studies, scientific and social activities, sports, and creative endeavors. Their families, school teachers, and university professors can rightfully be proud of them. As the President noted, upon completing their studies, the graduates have passed one of the most challenging stages in their lives. "You are all very capable, but for your success, I first and foremost thank those who gave you life, raised you, nurtured you, educated you, and became your role models and worthy examples – parents, educators, teachers, and devoted friends," the head of state added. "It is with them, with their support, that you are so confidently pursuing your dreams and achieving your goals. Soon, your future colleagues – experienced specialists from whom you will continue to learn – will become a similar support for you." He wished the graduates to treat their own children in the same way and bring them to the same level at that age as they are now.
Evgenia Vibornaya, a graduate of the Minsk State Linguistic University, has received the President's Certificate of Appreciation.
Vladislav Zhurko, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Physics, Mathematics, and Technical Support for the Production and Processing of Livestock Products at the Grodno State Agrarian University, has received the President's Certificate of Appreciation.
"It is not easy to study, and perhaps to re-learn; life will compel you to do so. Do not be discouraged if you encounter many, many new and different things in your new life compared to your student years. This is normal; it has always been this way. However, your education will still be the foundation, the basis for your future life," the Belarusian leader added.
Alexander Lukashenko noted that the completion of studies and the beginning of the career path for the graduates are taking place in the Year of Peace and Creation. He wished that their future would also be peaceful and creative.
"Looking at you, purposeful, bright, beautiful, young people, I see that our native Belarus will become even better and more beautiful. I believe that you will do everything for this," the head of state emphasized. "You are the most important thing in our lives, the lives of the older generation. We are always there and will do everything to make you feel our support and care as you move towards your goals. It is your time to create the history of our country – your country. May everything work out for you!"
Addressing the teachers, the head of state noted: "Without you, who are in this hall, and those who will hear us today, without all your colleagues, including school teachers, this award ceremony would not have happened, this feeling of confidence in the future would not exist. I have always said and will repeat: you are the true support of our state. May God grant you strength, inspiration, and most importantly, health."
Alexander Lukashenko presented Letters of Gratitude from the President of Belarus to five teachers and 14 university graduates of the country.
Congratulating the graduates, the President noted that a great and sometimes difficult life lies ahead of them. "I want you never to regret what happened in your life, but always to draw worthy conclusions from past years, days, hours of your life. I always tell graduates: you need to do everything on time to have success later and, preferably, not to redo anything," he said. "At your age, you can do anything, and it will be harder to do it later. Everything is ahead of you, everything is in your hands, hold the country firmly. Happiness, success, and good mood."
NEW FORMAT. WHAT SURPRISE HAS BEEN PREPARED FOR THE YOUTH IN THE CENTER OF MINSK
In the evening of June 23, Alexander Lukashenko took part in the republican celebration of graduates of higher education institutions, which took place on the site near the Palace of Sports in Minsk.
"Dear friends, good evening! Allow me, for the first time in a new format, meeting new people here in the center of our capital, to greet you and congratulate you on a great holiday in your lives. A unique holiday that will never be repeated. As I approached, I thought to myself that there is an exceptional atmosphere here. And you create this atmosphere with your youth and beauty. How else could it be? Your euphoria today is easy to understand. Behind you are the tense years of study, tests, exams, sleepless nights (I mean nights spent with textbooks). And tomorrow you have a new life. So, have fun today, and tomorrow, with renewed vigor, strive for new successes. You will be raising, teaching, healing, building, developing technologies, creating masterpieces of art, and much, much more. You will protect peace, ensure national security," said Alexander Lukashenko.
"The moment is also serious because, starting tomorrow, a piece of our homeland will be in your hands, each young graduate, each young person. And together, we will hold our country, our Motherland, in our hands. And, as I told those awarded this morning, look, this is already your responsibility. Do not lose your land; you will not have another. Wherever you may be, wherever you continue your studies, wherever you may work. This is yours. And do not give what is yours to anyone," the President urged the young people.
The Head of State noted that the graduates would soon be leaving for their first jobs in different corners of Belarus. And the smaller this corner is, the more noticeable the young people will be, and the greater their contribution to the history of their native country will be, stated Alexander Lukashenko. "Our cozy country, beautiful, clean Belarus, which we, of course, all love," he emphasized.
"What hopes we – the President, your parents, and teachers – place on you, I said this morning when I was awarding the distinguished ones. I told all of you – tens of thousands of Belarusian graduates. Do everything on time. Do today what you must do. Tomorrow you won't do it, because there will be new problems, new worries – life will overwhelm you. A turbulent, frantic, sometimes maddening life. And we live it together with you, sometimes not understanding what is happening. Therefore, you must do everything on time. Remember, this is the main thing. Now I am simply genuinely happy that there is an opportunity to give our youth this celebration in Minsk and in other corners of the country," said Alexander Lukashenko.
The President noted that the main graduation ceremony of the country is being held in a new format this time. The Head of State urged the graduates not to judge if the first attempt is not perfect. He is convinced that the celebration will be better in the coming years. "You will no longer be graduates, but I want to invite you next year and then, together with your own graduate children, to come here and celebrate with them. To gain impressions that will be remembered for a lifetime," said the Belarusian leader. "You are great, you have everything ahead of you. Always stay on the wave of striving for success, maintain your perseverance in achieving goals. And may these goals be high and noble."
"I repeat again: under any circumstances (you see, you are smart people, what is happening in the world), protect what is yours, do not give it to anyone, multiply it. No matter how difficult and hard it may be, protect it. If you lose it, you won't find it later, you won't make up for it, you won't get it back," said Alexander Lukashenko.
After the speech of the Head of State, the graduates themselves took to the stage. On behalf of the guests of the celebration and all the graduates of the country, they presented the President with a commemorative gift. It symbolizes the consolidation of the Belarusian people, the preservation and strengthening of the ideas of peace in Belarus, and creative labor as the main conditions for the development of the state. Then Alexander Lukashenko, together with the graduates, went to the observation deck by the Svisloch embankment to watch the water and fire show.
The performance concluded with a colorful fireworks display.
REBELLIOUS DAY. HOW LUKASHENKO HELPED TO RESOLVE THE SITUATION WITH THE PMC "WAGNER"
On June 24, the President of Belarus successfully helped to overcome the most acute phase of the situation in Russia related to the attempted military rebellion by the head of the Wagner PMC, Yevgeny Prigozhin. The head of the Belarusian state had a tense Saturday, which included meetings with security forces and the military, contacts with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and negotiations with Yevgeny Prigozhin. The negotiations lasted throughout the day, and ultimately, a resolution was found.
In the morning of that day, the President of Russia called the President of Belarus; a telephone conversation took place. Vladimir Putin informed his Belarusian counterpart about the situation in southern Russia with the private military company "Wagner." The heads of state agreed on joint actions.
Against the backdrop of events in Russia, Alexander Lukashenko held two meetings. The meetings took place in the morning and after lunch. The leadership of the security bloc and the military were invited to them.
Developing the agreements with the Russian leader, the President of Belarus, after further clarifying the situation through his own channels, and in agreement with the President of Russia, held negotiations with the head of the Wagner PMC, Yevgeny Prigozhin.
The negotiations lasted throughout the day, resulting in agreements on the inadmissibility of unleashing a bloody massacre on the territory of Russia. Yevgeny Prigozhin accepted the proposal of the President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, to halt the movement of armed Wagner company personnel within Russia and to take further steps to de-escalate tensions.
"At the moment, there is an absolutely beneficial and acceptable option for resolving the situation on the table, with security guarantees for the Wagner PMC fighters," informed the press service of the President of Belarus.
Shortly after the sensational news about Alexander Lukashenko's involvement in resolving the situation, a report emerged that the Wagner PMC columns were turning around and heading back.
At nine o'clock in the evening on June 24, the Presidents of Belarus and Russia spoke on the phone again. Alexander Lukashenko informed Vladimir Putin in detail about the results of the negotiations with the leadership of PMC "Wagner". The President of Russia supported and thanked his Belarusian counterpart for the work done.
Press Secretary of the President of Russia Dmitry Peskov stated that the mediation efforts undertaken by the President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko were made in the name of the highest goal – to avoid bloodshed, TASS reported.
Peskov emphasized that Moscow highly values the contribution made by the President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko to the resolution of the conflict.