Miory Regional Executive Committee
The working schedule of the President of Belarus is always highly eventful. Alexander Lukashenko holds meetings and working sessions on the most pressing issues of the country's development, regularly visits regions, undertakes foreign trips and hosts foreign guests himself, communicates with journalists, signs decrees and laws… And even when there are no public events, it does not mean at all that the head of state is not working. Moreover, even during leisure time, whether it is a hockey practice or chopping wood, Alexander Lukashenko will occasionally find a reason to issue another directive. As he often says, everything must be grounded in reality.
The "President's Week" project is designed for those who wish to keep pace with the head of state and stay informed about the most current statements and decisions of the Belarusian leader.
What will help activate not only Belarusian-Russian trade but also joint exports, where Belarus would like to gain a foothold in Siberia, what serves as a guarantee of stable relations between the countries, whether there is reason to regret the departure of Western companies, and what intelligence services are warning about.
Also, details regarding Alexander Lukashenko's participation in the CIS Summit in Bishkek. Why now is precisely the time for consolidation within the Commonwealth, whom the President urged not to bury their heads in the sand, and what he considers the greatest shared asset. All this and more in the new episode of BELTA's special project "President's Week".
CATALYST OF COOPERATION. What arsenal will the Russian Export Center group of companies deploy in Belarus
The head of state began his working week with a meeting on Monday, October 9, with Veronica Nikishina, General Director of JSC "Russian Export Center". The meeting is highly significant and indicative, as Belarus and Russia have been actively working in recent years on import substitution and the development of cooperation. Consequently, an increasing number of goods produced within the Union are emerging, and promoting them not only in the domestic market but also in third countries has become one of the key tasks amid Western sanction pressure. Naturally, support is also crucial for implementing promising investment projects and developing bilateral trade.
"Recently, you have been observing the situation in relations between Belarus and Russia. Your powerful group of companies is precisely situated at the crossroads of all these relations, possessing resources and certain reserves. Both administrative and financial resources for supporting relations between Belarus and Russia," Alexander Lukashenko noted. "Therefore, it was very important for me to meet with you and discuss issues. You have experience in this regard."
Alexander Lukashenko noted Veronika Nikishina's performance in her previous post at the Eurasian Economic Commission, where she served as a member of the College (Minister) for Trade: "We had such a brief meeting. I recall it. It was during the election period when appointments to our Eurasian Commission were being made. Quite some time has passed since then. You are now in a new capacity, in a new position."
LUKASHENKO MET WITH THE GENERAL DIRECTOR OF JSC "RUSSIAN EXPORT CENTER", VERONIKA NIKISHINAVeronika Nikishina, for her part, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet. "I represent the group of companies of the Russian Export Center. It comprises four organizations unified under a single holding. Two entities provide financial support measures, while the other two offer non-financial support. Given the strategic importance of trade and economic cooperation between the Russian Federation and Belarus, Belarus is a key market for us, where we deploy our full range of financial and non-financial instruments in the interests of Russian and Belarusian companies. Ultimately, this serves the interests of our respective economies," she stated.
Speaking to journalists, Veronika Nikishina mentioned that the parties discussed how to fully leverage existing potential and tools to create favorable conditions for the operations of Russian and Belarusian companies. "Overall, our cooperation and our instruments are concentrated in three main areas," noted the head of the export center.
First is the direct support of Russian non-resource, non-energy exports to Belarus through cost reduction, lowering production expenses, and measures to identify partners. Over ten years of cooperation in this area, more than $9 billion worth of Russian exports have been supplied to Belarus with the assistance of such support measures.
The second direction emerged at the center last year, when its mandate was expanded to include import support. "This already entails providing assistance to Belarusian companies willing to supply components and equipment to Russian enterprises currently being established for import substitution purposes and possessing export potential. During this period, we have already executed several such transactions aimed at supporting Belarusian priority imports for Russia. However, we are only at the initial stage. At present, we are reviewing new projects where we will expand our capabilities," Veronica Nikishina stated.
The third direction involves participation in major and significant investment projects for Belarus that are implemented using preferential financing. "We are pleased that several landmark projects with our financial involvement have already been successfully implemented in Belarus, such as the modernization of Grodno Azot. Currently, we are discussing 17 new investment projects of interest to the cooperative partnership between our two countries, where we can also contribute by leveraging all our available resources," added the Director General of the Russian Export Center.
Furthermore, the meeting addressed several additional opportunities for cooperation, ranging from the exchange of experience and best practices to coordinated joint measures aimed at supporting joint exports abroad. "We already have precedents where our insurance agencies have conducted joint transactions to support Belarusian exports to third-country markets or exports of jointly manufactured products. We are prepared to transfer the full range of expanding functions of the Russian Export Center for use by our Belarusian counterparts. This too represents one of the cooperation areas we discussed today," Veronica Nikishina concluded.
SPECIAL REGION. WHERE BELARUS WILL ESTABLISH ITS ANCHOR POINT IN SIBERIA
The Russian agenda in the President's work schedule continued on October 10. A meeting was held at the Palace of Independence with a delegation from the Novosibirsk Region led by Governor Andrey Travnikov.
"Siberia is a special region for Belarusians, where, since the times of Catherine the Great and Stolypin's imperial reforms, many of our compatriots have been living. They have devoted their minds and hearts to this land, brought it glory, and made it richer and more beautiful. That is why we are closely following all developments there," the President stated at the outset of the meeting.
The Head of State expressed confidence that the Novosibirsk Region Governor's visit to Belarus would open a new chapter in cooperation between Belarusian and Russian regions. "The opportunities here are immense, as you will personally confirm upon becoming better acquainted with our country," the Belarusian leader noted.
LUKASHENKO SEES IMMENSE OPPORTUNITIES FOR COOPERATION WITH THE NOVOSIBIRSK REGION OF RUSSIA
ON THE NEED TO STRENGTHEN AND BALANCE TRADE
The President drew attention to the solid foundation already in place for further growth: "The volume of trade transactions last year amounted to nearly half a billion U.S. dollars. This is a substantial figure, but it is necessary to determine why we are currently falling noticeably short of last year's results. Our specialists report that, in addressing this issue, the decline is primarily attributable to a reduction in your shipments of certain goods, including rapeseed, electric motors, hard coal, and others. I propose we jointly work toward balancing our trade. There is ample scope and opportunity for mutually beneficial cooperation."
The President noted that current cooperation with Novosibirsk is primarily based on the supply of agricultural and quarrying equipment.
"But we know that the scope of activity in this area is much broader. We have the opportunity to help you solve problems with updating the fleet of passenger transport and other equipment," Alexander Lukashenko noted. As a good example of such industrial cooperation, he cited the modernization of trams at facilities created by Belkommunmash in the Novosibirsk region.
And since Novosibirsk is, in essence, the administrative center of Siberia, the project can and should be scaled up for mutual benefit, taking into account the needs of other regions, as the Belarusian leader believes.
In this regard, the President instructed the Government to ensure that our country is represented by a high-ranking official in the joint body responsible for developing trade and economic cooperation between Belarus and the Novosibirsk region.
Traditionally, food products and agricultural raw materials make up a significant portion of Belarusian exports to the Russian region. "I am confident that by cooperating in the agro-industrial complex sector—from rural construction to biotechnology—we will be able to achieve much more than we currently do," the President emphasized. "Just as in science and education."
Ties between scientists in Belarus and the Russian region have never been interrupted; there is interaction, plans, and projects, but according to the President, all of this needs to be accelerated and given concrete substance, requiring more active actions, including from the Belarusian side. For instance, the parties could pool their efforts in such promising and important areas as artificial intelligence and unmanned aerial systems. The main goal is to ensure technological sovereignty with a focus on accelerated development.
"We have every opportunity to significantly boost trade figures and strengthen ties in the scientific, educational, humanitarian and other fields," the Belarusian leader stated confidently.
On the Special Role of Novosibirsk in Belarusian Plans
The Head of State clarified that Belarus has currently set a course toward structuring its capabilities within Russia. "Today, there is significant demand for Belarus, but we ourselves are not particularly large. Therefore, we must clearly determine where our centers will be located through which we will cooperate with the Russian Federation," Alexander Lukashenko stated.
One such center will be established, for instance, in Novosibirsk, given the region’s geographical location and strategic importance. "Novosibirsk accounts for half of Russia, at least east of the Urals. Therefore, our interests here must be concentrated not only in the Novosibirsk direction but across the entire Siberian region. In the near future, the Government will adopt a corresponding decision to seriously develop, based in Novosibirsk (I know you support this initiative), a competence center and a trade hub covering the vast territory of the Russian Federation," the President added.
On the Economic Foundation of Belarus–Russia Unity
As the Head of State emphasized, economic cooperation serves as the guarantee of strong relations between Belarus and Russia: "The unity of the two states is primarily economic. This is how we perceive it from Belarus. If economic progress continues at the current pace, and if our relations with Russia remain as cordial as they are with many regions, including yours, then, believe me, no additional promotion will be required."
The two nations possess all the necessary prerequisites for building bilateral relations, the Belarusian leader noted. Over an extended period of cooperation, both sides have identified and analyzed past mistakes and shortcomings, and are now moving forward together in the right direction.
LUKASHENKO: THE BASIS OF BELARUS-RUSSIA UNITY MUST BE PRIMARILY THE ECONOMY
"In the initial days of sanctions pressure against us, I consistently stated during my visits to Russia and at major forums that we would overcome this situation; we simply need some time," the President noted.
A year and a half to two years after the imposition of sanctions, Alexander Lukashenko’s statements have been validated in practice. Consequently, it is now necessary to further advance along this same path of intensifying cooperation, addressing shortcomings and deficiencies identified at the initial stage.
INTELLIGENCE HAS REPORTED ACCURATELY. What intelligence information was disclosed by Lukashenko
During a meeting with the Governor of the Novosibirsk Region, Andrey Travnikov, the President discussed not only regional cooperation but also outlined the global challenges confronting Belarus and Russia.
"Thank God that we have maintained our unity. However, I must state that we will not face a period of calm," Alexander Lukashenko emphasized.
LUKASHENKO: THE WEST WILL NOW ATTEMPT TO UNDERMINE THE UNITY OF BELARUS AND RUSSIA
In this context, he noted that recent reports from security and intelligence agencies indicate Western plans to drive a wedge between Belarus and Russia.
"Statements from officials there: "It will not be peaceful." They have already observed (not having yet extricated themselves from Ukraine) that it is necessary to undermine the unity between Belarus and Russia. Moreover, all Western countries, even those that seemingly could not care less about what is happening here in Belarus and Russia, are acting against us. Employing a mix of carrots and sticks, offering incentives, splitting officials, fostering divisions, detaching them from the President – these are old methods. All these statements are dated to September–October. Therefore, it will not be peaceful. We must focus on doing our own work," the Head of State stressed.
In this difficult situation, Belarus and Russia are relying on friendly countries. However, Alexander Lukashenko noted that they too have their own interests. "Therefore, let us build our homeland and defend it," the Belarusian leader urged. "This is our only path; there is no other. And we can maintain our dignity. In five years, we will forget what is happening now."
"We will recover everything. Even what has been lost. Do not doubt it for a moment," the President stated.
COME ON, GOODBYE! Why the Exit of Foreign Companies from the Market Is Not Frightening and Why It Is Necessary to Go to Africa
"Throughout my entire tenure, I have consistently urged Russia to prioritize domestic production, its own, its own, its own. There is no need to convert dollars earned from oil and gas into some, excuse me, provisions or hardware like nuts and bolts. We were fully capable of manufacturing these ourselves," the Head of State stated.
Regarding those foreign companies that decided to withdraw from the Belarusian and Russian markets due to sanctions, Alexander Lukashenko was brief: "Those who left, goodbye."
LUKASHENKO STATED THAT BELARUS AND RUSSIA MUST JOINTLY EXPAND INTO THE MARKETS OF FAR-OFF COUNTRIES
The Head of State noted in this regard that it is crucial for Russia and Belarus, in developing cooperation, to avoid duplication of production facilities: "I am pleased that Russia has finally recognized Belarus's potential, as practically no large or medium-sized enterprise here has collapsed or ceased operations. Most of them (perhaps this is not to the liking of Russians) are state-owned, function adequately, and are at least manageable. Today, strong cooperation is underway (with the Russian side. - BelTA note). We must not permit duplication of production at this stage (as there are no surplus funds). Our existing capacity will consistently serve the Russian market. Your existing capacity will be purchased by us whenever there is a current or future need. Therefore, duplication must be avoided".
Alexander Lukashenko noted that Belarus is currently very actively developing relations with countries of the far arc, including those on the African continent. In this connection, he also proposed to the Governor of the Novosibirsk Region to jointly enter the markets of these states.
"The demand for us there is immense. During the last meeting with the President of Russia, we discussed this matter in detail. As our specialists note, for instance, regarding Africa, the Soviet Union once laid a substantial groundwork, creating a vast foundation and base for the current cooperation of post-Soviet republics - primarily Belarus and Russia - on that continent. They place greater trust in us than in anyone else. We must leverage this opportunity. While advancing our interests, we should support the development of both African and Asian countries that have long awaited us. We need to collaborate on this," the President stressed.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM. Which issues require resolution within the CIS and what the current generation of politicians should do
President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko took part in the CIS summit in Bishkek on October 13. The head of the Belarusian state arrived in the capital of Kyrgyzstan the previous evening.
The event took place in the congress hall of the state residence "Ala-Archa". The meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the CIS traditionally convened in both narrow and expanded formats. In total, the summit lasted approximately 5 hours. A significant portion of the time, the leaders of the countries communicated not only in the official format but also in the corridors and informally.
Alexander Lukashenko presented Belarus's position and proposals on the most pressing issues of cooperation within the framework of the Commonwealth.
On the Necessity of Consolidation in the CIS and Resolution of Conflicts
"I would like to begin my address with the fundamentals. I remind you that the primary objective of establishing the Commonwealth was to prevent the severing of ties following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. This did not suit and does not suit our competitors today—the West, which to this day has not abandoned its attempts to destabilize us, weaken us, and subordinate us to its interests. First, Georgia withdrew from our association; de facto, Ukraine is no longer with us. There are major concerns regarding Moldova. Unfortunately, Armenia does not always act in a partnership manner," Alexander Lukashenko said at the meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the CIS in a narrow format.
He emphasized that such developments cannot be observed passively: "Otherwise, we will simply be torn apart. And it will be ordinary people first and foremost—the peoples of our countries who will suffer. Therefore, we—as heads of state—must carry out the will of our voters. And at the very least, fulfill and resolve the tasks we have promised. And in principle, now is the time to critically assess the situation in our Commonwealth. We should not bury our heads in the sand. We see that all the long-standing conflicts that were planted in us back then are inevitably surfacing with very regrettable consequences. Thank God, there is not just a trend toward resolving these conflicts, but some of them have been successfully overcome," the President of Belarus stated.
The Head of State also noted that it is precisely the current generation of politicians, born and raised in the Soviet Union, who must address the existing challenges: "We possess the necessary experience and knowledge. The current generation of youth is unlikely to manage this. Most of them no longer grasp many of the values and advantages that once united us and continue to do so today."
"Should we achieve this, those who currently look for solutions to their problems somewhere beyond the ocean will return to join us. And they have very little understanding of where our countries are even located," the Belarusian leader remarked.
Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that the time has come for substantial consolidation within the Commonwealth, noting that there are sufficient examples of successful work. This is further evidenced by the comprehensive summit agenda, which includes several important joint statements. "These documents confirm that the member states share common approaches to such pressing matters as freedom of conscience, the prohibition of discrimination based on language, and the harmonization of public administration systems in the digital sphere," the Head of State stated.
On Multipolarity and the Demand for a More Just World Order
The President specifically underscored the importance of finalizing a statement on interstate relations in a multipolar world: "Overall, it reflects our shared vision of the foundations of the global order, with the exception of the paragraph proposing to express concern regarding the politicization of international courts' activities. Yet even this moderate wording failed to gain universal support. Why do we need these international courts? Particularly in our relations. Furthermore, we fully understand, especially at present, what this is intended for."
LUKASHENKO: THE TIME HAS COME FOR SERIOUS CONSOLIDATION IN THE CIS
"Apparently, this has not yet affected certain parties. Someday you too will want to help children, grant them a bit of childhood, protect them from bombings and explosions, only to find yourselves placed on an international wanted list for doing so," the Belarusian leader noted.
He emphasized that amid a rapidly changing situation and a heightened demand for a fairer world order, alliances seeking pathways to expand and consolidate cooperation, peaceful coexistence, legal guarantees for development, and the elimination of discrimination based on religious belief or income level are more relevant than ever. "Our Commonwealth is precisely such an alliance," the Head of State affirmed. "Why do we not all value it? We have accumulated vast experience in constructive work that is of interest beyond the CIS. Other integration alliances are keeping a close eye on it. Yet for many, it remains a thorn in the side."
On the Russian Language That Must Not Be Lost
During his address, Alexander Lukashenko described the initiative by the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, to establish an international organization dedicated to the Russian language as highly timely and much needed.
"As you know, we all currently speak Russian, which is why we do not perceive this massive issue with such urgency. However, consider the youth in our republics. Many speak Russian less fluently and competently than English or other languages. This (proficiency in the Russian language. - Note) is our greatest asset. We risk reaching a point where we will have to communicate through interpreters," the Belarusian leader stated. "We must not lose the language of interethnic communication, as it is known. Furthermore, I fail to see why it ought to be abandoned. Does it harm us, our generation? No. Nor should it harm our children's generation. This is our legacy."
Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that he has always stated that the Russian language is not the Russian state language: "It is our common language. We were part of a single state for a long time. And given the concept that a language is living and creatively developing, we together contributed to the development of this Russian language. It incorporates elements from Azerbaijanis, Uzbeks, Tajiks, and so on. Not only Russians and Belarusians. So why are we losing the Russian language?"
The President noted that he welcomes the trend in Central Asian countries, including Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, where new schools and universities are emerging in which Russian is studied and taught.
LUKASHENKO AT THE CIS SUMMIT: WE MUST NOT LOSE THE RUSSIAN LANGUAGE, IT IS OUR GREATEST ASSET
"But this is insufficient. Therefore, this initiative concerning the Russian language is no less important than any initiative in the economic sphere. I will not even speak of the situation regarding the Russian language in the former Warsaw Pact countries (in the states that were part of this alliance. - Ed.). Unlike them, we do not want our youth to communicate, as I have already said, with one another through an interpreter or solely in English," the Belarusian leader stressed.
Regarding the Expansion of the CIS Influence Zone, Cooperation in the SCO and BRICS
Speaking on the expansion of the CIS influence zone, Alexander Lukashenko stated: "Representatives of various international organizations already participate in numerous meetings of Commonwealth bodies. The adoption today of documents establishing the status of observer at the CIS and partner of the Commonwealth will lay the foundation for the legal regulation of such relations."
"Belarus has always supported the coordination of activities among international integration organizations with similar goals and tasks. The fundamental condition is that we must support each other, not create obstacles. I believe that member states of the Commonwealth may find existing initiatives under our other formats interesting, for instance, on such important issues as electronic commerce, widespread adoption of digital technologies, access to public procurement, reduction of mobile roaming tariffs, and many other areas," Alexander Lukashenko stated.
LUKASHENKO SUPPORTS EXPANDING THE CIS INFLUENCE ZONE AND UNITY IN LARGER ORGANIZATIONS
He is confident that cooperation within the SCO and BRICS, implementation of high-tech projects, development of new logistics schemes for supplying goods to countries of the Global South, including active development of the "North - South" corridor, and close coordination of efforts to ensure food security for the world's most vulnerable countries are all of interest and should be actively developed without fear of falling under secondary Western sanctions.
Alexander Lukashenko paid special attention to a new trend associated with the development of such major international organizations as the SCO and BRICS. "Undoubtedly, these are organizations, perhaps even of the future. But you see that there is a certain deceleration occurring there. After all, the level of integration between (partners. - Note.) the EAEU and CIS is higher for us, - noted the Head of State. - And if we were in the SCO and BRICS, if we act there as a single organization, would that weaken our positions? No. And I am sure that Russia also needs to behave more actively here, without paying attention to how Americans or the West behave or where they look. Russia should be such a system-forming (element. - BelTA Note) of our association - the CIS. And in BRICS and the SCO, we must strive to act there as a single organization. More advanced in terms of integration - both politically and economically, and so on."
On the Situation in the World and the Middle East
"I must say that the situation is changing catastrophically fast. With Shavkat Mirmonovich we talked about this for about an hour (referring to the meeting of the President of Belarus with the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, which took place before the start of the summit. - Note.). It changes a lot. New and new challenges are emerging. Take the Middle East. And they are already shaking not only us. They are already shaking the whole world. May God grant us a pause, so as not to approach World War III."
The Head of State noted that Belarus, in response to economic pressure together with its allies, primarily Russia, has consolidated forces for sustainable economic development. Macroeconomic and financial stability has been maintained. A transition to a growth trajectory has been ensured.
"And Russia has also substantially strengthened itself and in many areas of economic development has become an order of magnitude more self-sufficient. Had we, together as the Commonwealth, stood shoulder to shoulder to counter this Western scare rhetoric, our joint results would have been significantly higher, - the Belarusian leader is convinced. - Recall that during our time in the Soviet Union, everyone feared us. They feared and respected us. Unfortunately, the world is such that only strength commands respect. And now, together with China, Iran, Brazil, and indeed the Global South, what Western sanctions matter? Our voice will be heeded if we stand together. And our position in international affairs will be decisive."
On the Value of the CIS Format
"A shared strategic orientation enables us to systematically enhance cooperation across all areas of multifaceted collaboration, despite new unprecedented challenges. In essence, it is precisely these challenges that compelled us to shake off complacency, reassess the situation, and identify solutions that were already apparent. Today's results speak for themselves," - stated the Belarusian leader.
Alexander Lukashenko noted that partners have laid a solid foundation for the future: "While the West invests in war, or rather simply squanders the funds of its taxpayers, we are steadily increasing long-term capital investments year after year - into knowledge-intensive sectors such as microelectronics, aerospace, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and information and communication technology solutions. Many challenges can only be resolved through joint efforts. Otherwise, we will merely engage in discussions on these matters."
LUKASHENKO EXPLAINED WHO CAN BE THE GUARANTEE OF SUSTAINABLE AND SECURE DEVELOPMENT OF CIS COUNTRIES
"We can be the guarantors of our own sustainable and secure development. To achieve this, we must be self-sufficient in strategically important sectors. We possess the resources, potential, and competencies required for this. What is needed is political will and an understanding of the value of the Commonwealth format," the President of Belarus emphasized.
The Head of State emphasized that it is imperative to preserve the unique formats of unity within the CIS space at all costs; internal division and alignment with the ideologues and implementers of sanction pressure must not be permitted. It is also absolutely unacceptable to yield to provocations aimed at fomenting interethnic and territorial disputes in the post-Soviet space.
"You are already aware that we and the Russian people have come to a very serious realization of our current situation. And particularly so for us, Belarusians," the Head of State noted. He also pointed out that challenging times lie ahead for the other member states of the Commonwealth as well.
"On one hand, it is clear: a big brother who strives to help us. Naturally, he has his own interests. On the other hand, there are the Americans and the West—you have already felt this. Do not forget that our happiness lies here. It is precisely at this table that the heads of state sit, who can bring prosperity to our peoples if we resolve certain issues that have remained unsolved for a long time," Alexander Lukashenko stated.
On Interegional Cooperation
The Head of State noted with satisfaction the signing this year within the CIS framework of the Agreement on Trade in Services and Investment Promotion.
"I am convinced that this is a timely and important document. In keeping with these documents, as well as continuing the efforts under previously adopted agreements, I propose intensifying work to expand interregional economic cooperation. Today Shavkat Miromonovich (Mirziyoyev, President of Uzbekistan. - Note) made a pertinent remark: 'If we do not interfere with the regions, but rather assist them in certain areas, they will resolve many issues on their own.'"
LUKASHENKO SUPPORTED THE INITIATIVE TO HOLD A FORUM OF CIS REGIONS
"This is our undeniable and in-demand potential. We have experience," said the Belarusian leader. "The initiative proposed earlier by the Republic of Uzbekistan to hold the Forum of CIS Regions is relevant and requires prompt practical implementation. This should become one of the priority tasks. The member states of the Commonwealth already possess the necessary experience and preparatory work in a bilateral format."
Alexander Lukashenko drew attention to the fact that Russia will preside over the CIS in the upcoming term, and during this period regional leaders will be able to convene there to commence their work, which will constitute a valuable event.
LUKASHENKO SUPPORTED THE INITIATIVE TO HOLD THE FORUM OF CIS REGIONS
On the Summit Outcomes
As a result of the meeting, a number of decisions were adopted and corresponding documents were signed. It was decided that the Russian Federation will be presiding over the CIS in 2024.
A decision was made to award the Honorary Badge of the Commonwealth of Independent States to the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev for his contribution to the development of the CIS, strengthening friendship, good-neighborliness, and mutually beneficial cooperation between the member states of the Commonwealth.
Participants of the summit discussed and adopted the Agreement on the Establishment of the International Organization for the Russian Language. Four statements were also adopted: on cooperation in the field of digitalization in public administration; on international relations in a multipolar world; on protecting the right of every human being and citizen to freedom of religion or belief; on supporting and promoting the Russian language as a language of interethnic communication.
Among other approved documents are the agreement on the establishment of the International Center for Assessing Risks of Legalization (Money Laundering) of Proceeds of Crime and Financing of Terrorism, the Agreement on the Establishment of the Coordination Council in the Field of Forensic Expertise, and the Interstate Program of Joint Measures to Combat Crime for 2024–2028.
Heads of State established the Medal "For Contribution to Strengthening Peace". The award will become a unified interstate distinction reflecting recognition of special personal merits of citizens of the Commonwealth states, as well as representatives of other states, in strengthening peace and maintaining international security.
The city of Samarkand has been declared the Cultural Capital of the CIS for 2024.
FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE. What the Presidents of Belarus and Uzbekistan Agreed Upon
As already noted, immediately before the start of the CIS Summit in Bishkek, a bilateral meeting took place between the Presidents of Belarus and Uzbekistan, Alexander Lukashenko and Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The heads of state reviewed the most important issues of Belarus-Uzbekistan relations.
It was noted that trade turnover demonstrates positive dynamics, yet its growth potential remains significantly higher. In this context, the key priority at present is to take the next step. This falls within the purview of the governments. In the economic sphere, it is crucial to foster deeper cooperation. Belarusian technologies are of interest to Uzbekistan across various sectors, particularly industry.
Alexander Lukashenko and Shavkat Mirziyoyev outlined a work plan and discussed preparations for the upcoming visit of the President of Belarus to Uzbekistan.
THE KEY POINT IS TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP. DETAILS OF THE LUKASHENKO-MIRZIYOYEV MEETING
An agreement was reached to hold a session of the intergovernmental commission at the end of November – beginning of December. During the meeting, tasks will be detailed and structured, and additional growth areas for bilateral relations will be identified.
A vital aspect is regional cooperation. Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed developing a schedule for regional initiatives for 2024.
During the meeting, the presidents also addressed matters of youth policy and cooperation in the humanitarian field.
Alexander Lukashenko and Shavkat Mirziyoyev also conducted a thorough discussion on the global agenda, including the international situation, conflict zones, and regional landscapes.
The leaders of both countries noted that today’s meeting lays the groundwork for the future.
A KIND AND TENDER HOLIDAY. THE WORDS WITH WHICH LUKASHENKO ADDRESSED MOTHERS
Supporting and safeguarding family values, motherhood, and childhood in Belarus constitutes one of the cornerstone principles of state policy. October, in this regard, features numerous festive dates: October 14 is Mother’s Day, and October 21 is Father’s Day. Spanning the period between these dates is an entire Parents’ Week, encompassing events of varying scales and formats.
On Mother's Day, Alexander Lukashenko addressed fellow countrywomen with sincere congratulations: "This kind and tender holiday embodies the greatness of spiritual strength and the sanctity of motherhood as a priceless source of life and one of the highest qualities of femininity. The image of a mother, close and dear to everyone, we carry in our hearts throughout our lives. In a mother's soul, even the most ordinary events of our earthly journey resonate with boundless love. Through your wisdom and sincerity, you teach children to be independent, instilling in them moral values and guidelines."
The President sincerely thanked mothers for their sensitivity, patience, and care for family well-being and home comfort. Words of deep respect and a low bow were addressed by him to mothers of large families and adoptive mothers, as well as those raising children with special needs: "Your attention and involvement instill in them kindness, hope for the best, and confidence in their own abilities."
To all women, Alexander Lukashenko wished robust health and happiness, and to every Belarusian family peace and mutual understanding, so that the love and gratitude of children become the best reward for parents.
Source belta.by