Miory Regional Executive Committee

The working schedule of the President of Belarus is consistently packed with events. Alexander Lukashenko conducts meetings and working sessions on the most pressing issues of national development, regularly visits regions, undertakes foreign trips, hosts foreign guests personally, interacts with journalists, and signs decrees and laws. Even when there are no public engagements, this does not mean that the head of state is inactive. Furthermore, even during rest periods, be it a hockey training session or chopping wood, Alexander Lukashenko invariably finds grounds to issue new directives. As he often remarks, one must always proceed from reality.

The "President's Week" project is designed for those wishing to keep pace with the head of state and stay abreast of the most current statements and decisions made by the Belarusian leader.

Responsibility for implementing agreements reached during recent foreign visits will be defined - with China, the UAE, African countries, India, and others at the center of attention.

Topics covered by Lukashenko at his meeting with heads of special services of CIS countries. Reasons why their cooperation is sometimes stronger than that of diplomats; objectives of adversaries within NATO and measures to prevent them. Additionally, insights on frontline journalists and ideologues, activities of Western terrorist agents, allied support, and the importance of conflict resolution in the latest installment of BELTA’s special project "President's Week".

LONG-DISTANCE TOUR. Tasks assigned by the President following foreign visits

During the two-week period in the first half of December, Alexander Lukashenko undertook official visits to several foreign countries. At the beginning of December, in the United Arab Emirates, he participated in the World Climate Change Summit and held numerous meetings with foreign counterparts on the sidelines of this forum. Subsequently, the President traveled to China, where he met with President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping. Upon returning to the UAE, the Head of State met with the President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. From the UAE, Alexander Lukashenko proceeded to Africa, undertaking an official two-day visit to Equatorial Guinea and a working visit to Kenya.

In turn, Prime Minister of Belarus Roman Golovchenko visited Uzbekistan and Vietnam in recent days, where negotiations and meetings were held at various levels.

The outcomes of all these trips and others became the subject of discussion at a meeting with the head of state. In fact, the geography of the visits stretched from the Pacific to the Atlantic Oceans. "We have actually drawn this distant arc along which we must work," Alexander Lukashenko noted.

The President explained that the countries of the CIS are included in the circle of the close cooperation arc – neighbors and partners of Belarus.

"Russia and the PRC are two states with which we have the most advanced relations – that is a separate matter. You know that relevant decisions of the President have been adopted and are being implemented separately for these states," the Belarusian leader emphasized. "And the distant arc – it has been marked out. To the north and south there are states that are of great interest to us."

On Cooperation with India

Alexander Lukashenko mentioned the development of cooperation with India, although on this occasion there were no visits to the country at either the highest or government level.

"A separate issue, one for which we have not yet found a fundamental solution – is engagement with the Indian state. At one time, the former Foreign Minister began addressing this issue fundamentally," the head of state noted.

He instructed the current Foreign Minister, Sergei Aleynik, in the near future, no later than the first quarter of next year, to submit his proposals on this issue. "A plan for work with India. Specifically a plan. As we did in Africa with Equatorial Guinea. We do not need tourist trips. We need solutions to specific issues," the head of state clarified.

On Monitoring the Implementation of Agreements in Africa

"Regarding the African continent, I wish to issue a warning to all. I have invited the Deputy Prime Ministers, although they were not deeply familiar with the details of these preparatory visits by our specialists and ministers. They are aware of this. I invited you so that you could exercise special oversight over the outcomes of these missions," the President stated.

Alexander Lukashenko noted that cooperation with Equatorial Guinea was approached in a new manner: "All activities proceeded under my strictest supervision. The Minister of Foreign Affairs paid a visit there, established contacts with the country, and subsequently our specialists carried out their work. Furthermore, the ministers, who visited the country immediately prior to my trip, formulated the key areas (15 in total) of our cooperation and 74 specific projects that we agreed to implement jointly with our partners in Equatorial Guinea. These must be executed. I firmly insist on this and issue a clear warning."

In connection with this, the Head of State instructed Presidential Assistant Alexander Kosintsev to ensure oversight within the Presidential Administration regarding cooperation with Equatorial Guinea and Kenya—African nations visited by the Head of State on this occasion. "Those of you at the highest level, please take note and maintain control; review all these matters thoroughly. This must remain under strict supervision here, within the Presidential Administration. We must avoid situations, which occasionally occur in our practice, where we repeatedly review our relations with various states, removing some items and adding others. We have reached agreements, and it is imperative that we implement these projects," the Belarusian leader stressed.

He noted that during his visit to Equatorial Guinea, he openly stated that assistance from Belarus does not constitute charity. "We are not the United States, which prints money. Nor China, which holds vast reserves. Nor even Russia. We must negotiate on a commercial basis and work exclusively conscientiously. The prospects there are highly promising. We must apply all our capabilities and expertise there," Alexander Lukashenko stated.

Speaking of Kenya, the President addressed Viktor Sheiman: "I already told you during the flight: take it upon yourself and work on Africa, just as you did when you started. It should be under your control as the President's special envoy. Regarding Kenya, you know the issues for which the President asked us to assist them: three major issues beneficial to us. And others. Therefore, Africa and Kenya separately are your responsibility. The African continent. You started there, you are responsible for it."

On the productive visit to China

As for the People's Republic of China, personal responsibility for cooperation with this country rests with First Deputy Prime Minister Nikolai Snopkov, who also attended the recent high-level talks in Beijing together with the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Alexander Lukashenko described the visit to China as highly beneficial and productive, and the Chinese side expressed readiness for joint work on the discussed issues: the word "no" was not heard (during the negotiations. - BELTA note). All the issues we raised before President of the PRC Xi Jinping received a single response: "Yes, we are ready to work,

The Head of State set all meeting participants on a course for effective, consistent, and prompt work on implementing agreements reached in various countries. For this, it is important to act together, not separately. "Everything must be concentrated in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Everything should be there. Let's see how the new Minister of Foreign Affairs will handle these issues. This is a huge number of issues. That is why I am instructing Sheiman and Kosints to get involved and so on. The Government and ministers will have to implement all agreements. I simply categorically warn you against any kind of slowdown," the Belarusian leader stated.

DO NOT LOSE THE THREAD. Why Lukashenko is putting the intelligence services of CIS countries on maximum alert

The 19th meeting of the Meeting of Heads of Security and Intelligence Agencies of the CIS States took place in Minsk this week. On December 14, the head of the Belarusian state met with its participants at the Palace of Independence.

He noted that it was symbolic that this meeting was taking place in Belarus in an era of wars and political upheavals: "Despite political and sanction pressure from the West, primarily the United States, we continue to develop a peaceful, stable state (for which we are doing everything), based on the principles of social justice. There is a strong demand for justice now in our states."

Alexander Lukashenko noted that the situation around us is not becoming safer. Tensions are growing in various regions of the planet. Some smoldering conflicts are transitioning into active phases, and hybrid proxy wars are being unleashed everywhere.

According to the President, cooperation among security agencies provides a platform that enables a better understanding of each other's interests, taking them into account, and adopting specific measures to de-escalate the situation. "Where necessary, we must advise and assist one another. This is very important. We will act only in this manner," he assured.

On the Degradation of International Structures

The President pointed out the complete degradation of a number of international structures - from the OSCE and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons to the International Red Cross.

"They have turned into platforms for demagoguery and tools for serving and implementing the interests of global players. At the same time, we spend huge sums on various conferences, understanding that they will yield nothing. The last one took place in Dubai," said the head of state. "We have sunk to absurdity. The European Peace Facility is funding the war in Ukraine."

As reported by BELTA, on December 1 in Dubai, Alexander Lukashenko addressed the plenary session of the World Summit on Combating Climate Change, urging participants to make a concrete contribution to resolving the discussed issues. "Likely, once again we have convened here and, regrettably, once again we will voice our concern. In a week, all of this will be forgotten," said the head of state. "Yet those who stood at the forefront here, 'concerned about their grandchildren,' are precisely the ones conducting these wars. And wars constitute a terrible pollution of the planet. Let us halt this. Therefore, the paramount objective is for us to learn to utter fewer words and accomplish more."

On the Role of Intelligence Services

In view of the chaos and the collapse of the international system of checks and balances, Alexander Lukashenko pointed to the position of the first President of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, who recently stated that the world is closer to nuclear war than ever before. "To others, perhaps not, but his assessment must be trusted. Under such conditions, the role of intelligence services is increasing, the most important task of which is to ensure the protection of their states and citizens from internal and external threats," said the head of state.

Alexander Lukashenko noted that statements regarding the growing role are not a banal or routine phrase. "The point is that foreign ministries and state departments have, recently, somewhat lost the knack of establishing contacts. And crucially, maintaining them even in the most difficult circumstances. Intelligence services know how to do this. It demands your utmost effort so as not to lose this thread, this connection. If it snaps between you, there will be no one to talk to and no one to talk with," he said.

On the Primary Task of the NATO Intelligence Community and What Must Not Be Allowed

The President emphasized that particular importance is attached to the effectiveness of foreign intelligence operations in gathering reliable, current, and primarily predictive information, enabling national leaders to make well-considered decisions in the interests of their peoples. "The primary objective here is to outmaneuver our opponents and prevent the realization of scenarios they are attempting to impose on us. According to my briefings (you may have different information), one of the key tasks of the NATO intelligence community and its allies is the disintegration of the post-Soviet space. They intend to first drive a wedge into our centuries-old friendly relations, and subsequently turn neighboring states against each other. We have already experienced this," the Belarusian leader stated.

"I am convinced that if the opportunity arises to pick up the phone and call each of you directly to address a specific matter, failing to do so would also lead to a tragedy. This must not be permitted. Therefore, I urge you absolutely not to sever ties, even if certain states among us adopt different positions regarding the policies currently pursued by individual countries. The most important thing is not to rush," Alexander Lukashenko added.

On Journalists and Ideologues at the Frontline

The Head of State also identifies serious threats that have emerged in the information sphere. "Today, our journalists and ideologues are at the forefront. They are conducting this information war. It is crucial that we prevent this information conflict from escalating into a hot war," Alexander Lukashenko said.

He noted that opponents are attempting to exert a destructive influence on the population, launch cyberattacks against the critical infrastructure of state institutions, and disseminate fake news and fabricated information.

On the Importance of Maintaining the Economy

Alexander Lukashenko called for preventing conflicts within the shared framework of the Commonwealth: "We have lost our own state, which contributed to preserving a multipolar world. We are not as strong today as we were previously. Therefore, it is extremely difficult for us to counter these confrontations in the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic regions. I am speaking plainly to you: we must get through this period. We do not wish to engage in war. We have fought enough, it is time to stop."

The President currently identifies the main task as maintaining the economy. "If there are no internal reasons, no one will try to encroach on us. And internal reasons are the economy," the Belarusian leader noted.

He emphasized the inadmissibility of severing ties, as happened with Ukraine at that time. Alexander Lukashenko, as an example, recalled that for a number of years he had urged the former presidents of Ukraine not to rush to leave the CIS. The same issue was raised in conversations with former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili. "It is easy to leave. It is more difficult to join. In politics, it is very important to know how to wait and not to rush," the head of state said.

Alexander Lukashenko reiterated once again that only by combining efforts can one counter the listed threats.

On Western Agent-Terrorists

The head of state noted the activity of foreign special services also within the territory of Belarus. "Their methods of operation are taking on an increasingly aggressive character. They are sending not just spies to us, but already agent-terrorists," he said. "They are attempting to create extremist cells, forming certain battalions from our fugitives, and recruiting mercenaries."

Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that he is by no means exaggerating, but, on the contrary, cannot openly say everything on this matter: "You understand me. We with the Russian Federation have, probably, already detained about two dozen groups of terrorists who aim primarily at carrying out terrorist operations on the territory of Russia and Belarus."

Evidence of this includes the high-profile incidents in Machulishchy (when they attempted to attack a military airfield and destroy Russian equipment), Grodno, and attempts to blow up railway lines in various regions of the country. "There is no need to explain to you why this is being done," Alexander Lukashenko noted.

"We see very serious activity on the territory of Belarus. It is clear that this "sanitary cordon" has turned into a thousand-kilometer window. A balcony, a window – whoever calls it what. It is clear that they will constantly strive to cut it back in order to break through there via Smolensk, as always, to Moscow. Speaking frankly: we cannot allow this and will do everything possible, along with our allies, to hold this line," the Belarusian leader added.

On Support for Allies

Alexander Lukashenko specifically addressed accusations from Western opponents that Belarus supports Russia.

"Well, they oppose Russia (in the West. - BelTA note) – there is Ukraine, something else… What do we owe them? What do we owe NATO? We live quietly and peacefully, not interfering with anyone," the Belarusian leader emphasized. "I recently spoke with your counterparts from all leading countries – heads of intelligence services. I asked them directly: 'What do you want from us? Did you not know that we have concluded an agreement with Russia, that we maintain the closest military-political cooperation?' – 'You are helping Russia over there…' I reply: 'We help and will continue to help.' We state this openly; we have never concealed it. This is our alliance. Since the time I declared that we will not allow shooting at Russians in the back through Belarusian territory, we have adhered to this principle. What was unclear prior to the conflict in Ukraine? Everything was clear and understood."

Alexander Lukashenko continued: "And you – 50 countries – are supporting Ukraine today." It has long been evident that this war has evolved from a Russian conflict with Ukraine into a war waged by Russia against the entire "civilized" West. You are aware of this; they do not deny it. So then, what do you expect from us? We have supported and will continue to support our ally in every respect. The same holds true for all states seated at this table".

"There is no need to make demands against us. Our policy is transparent and open, and we will consistently adhere to it. We are compelled to defend ourselves and assist our allies. This policy will be maintained in the future as well," the Head of State concluded.

On Russia as a Cementing Link in the Post-Soviet Space

According to the President, the nature of trusted relations between the CIS countries is defined by a common history, the economic, scientific, and educational potential inherited from what was once a single state, and human-to-human contacts. "This is our economic space. Yes, much here depends on Russia. But let us speak frankly: Russia changes every month, every year. Never before has Russia, due to certain conditions, been such a cementing, unifying link for the entire post-Soviet space. You know, due to what conditions," he said.

"Let us preserve this economic space. Let us preserve this common market," the head of state urged.

On the Causes of the War in Ukraine and Zelenskyy with an Outstretched Hand

Alexander Lukashenko stressed that the Russian side was provoked into a conflict, including through discrimination against citizens in Ukraine on ethnic grounds. "In Russia, they pressured Putin to defend his people. And how else could he have acted? They brought it upon themselves, clearly," the President noted.

The head of state recounted contacts with former heads of special services: "They constantly discuss causes and the like. I put a question to an American: 'What if Mexico behaved that way toward American citizens?' America would have crushed Mexico long ago."

"Today, the West is already at odds with Ukraine—they have closed off the entire border. They are pursuing a senseless policy. I had warned Zelenskyy: if some trouble flares up somewhere or for any other reason, you will be forgotten. Here it is: the Middle East, the internal situation in America. As a result, the poor fellow wanders around with an outstretched hand," Alexander Lukashenko remarked.

He stated that the United States had acted dishonorably toward the Ukrainian President. The head of state pointed out that while the media often describes Vladimir Zelenskyy’s conduct as brazen, he is merely insisting that Western partners uphold their commitments. "On the eve of the war, they sat down at the negotiating table, and the Americans told Zelenskyy: 'You are fighting to the last Ukrainian, while we fund you and supply arms.' Why do they not supply, why do they not fund? That is precisely what he is demanding from them."

On the Necessity of Peaceful Negotiations

The President is confident that the parties to the conflict in Ukraine should already be reaching an agreement: "This vile situation is needed by no one. And you know that today Russia is ready. And we have never refused negotiations. Back then, the West restrained Zelensky, now they point to Zelensky: "If he agrees to negotiations, we are also ready". A new situation arose - and they abandoned him. Just like in Afghanistan: they will cling to the landing gear and fall onto the airfield".

The Head of State also recalled the conflict between Volodymyr Zelensky and the military. Several months ago, at meetings with foreign and Belarusian journalists, Alexander Lukashenko spoke about the domestic political situation in Ukraine. Thus, in February, the President stated that an agreement on peace must be reached primarily with the Ukrainian military.

"The military of Ukraine has a somewhat, to put it mildly, different point of view and position from politicians and President Zelensky. And Volodymyr Zelensky knows this perfectly well. The most professional military personnel are most convinced that the war must be stopped. You will see that we will inevitably - and Russians first of all - will have to negotiate with the Ukrainian military, - Alexander Lukashenko emphasized at the time. - People are thrown there like cannon fodder. And they are ready to sacrifice millions of Ukrainians - quote. The military understands this. And the military will be able to reach an agreement".

On Conflict Resolution and Life, Which Is Given Only Once

The Head of State explained that he touched upon the topic of the conflict in Ukraine not without reason: "It is easy to walk away, wave your hand, detach yourself. It will be difficult to take a drink later. Do not do this. Much depends on you, - he addressed the heads of the security services. - Yes, mistakes were made somewhere. Yes, something did not work out - in Armenia, Azerbaijan. Let us fix this".

The President emphasized that the escalation of this conflict would not have occurred if the parties had listened to the advice in time and taken the necessary measures. At the same time, the Head of State pointed out that the current Prime Minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, bears no blame for what happened: the situation that developed was left to him as an inheritance.

Alexander Lukashenko previously urged the parties to resolve all issues through peaceful means, noting that specific mutually acceptable measures had been under consideration. Nevertheless, preliminary agreements remained unimplemented. At present, both Armenia and Azerbaijan are facing significant challenges.

A similarly complex situation has historically emerged along the Tajik-Kyrgyz border. Nevertheless, the leaders of these states succeeded in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement, the President noted: "I consistently commend the leaderships: they have simply done an excellent job. More than 90 percent of the border has been delineated. And I am confident that next year they will sign a border treaty."

"For what purpose do we fight? Life is granted only once," the Belarusian leader stressed.

"Under no circumstances should you separate or withdraw, as you will be abandoned. For those who are disadvantaged and find themselves in a difficult situation, there is only one way out of this impasse: if a rifle is handed over, then fight," Alexander Lukashenko concluded.

Source: belta.by