A message to private sector operators, shoulder straps for generals, and agricultural education for top officials. The President's week in review
Photo is illustrative in nature. From open sources.
ALEXANDER LUKASHENKO during a meeting with representatives of private enterprises Alexander Lukashenko during a visit to the agricultural enterprise "Shipyany-ASK" Alexander Lukashenko during the presentation of the Order "For Service to the Motherland" of the 3rd degree to Alexander Prudnikevich Alexander Lukashenko during a meeting with representatives of private enterprises Alexander Lukashenko during a visit to the agricultural enterprise "Shipyany-ASK" Alexander Lukashenko during the presentation of the Order "For Service to the Motherland" of the 3rd degree to Alexander Prudnikevich Alexander Lukashenko during a meeting with representatives of private enterprises
The "President's Week" project is for those who want to keep up with the head of state and stay informed about the most relevant statements and decisions of the Belarusian leader.
On Tuesday, February 18, Alexander Lukashenko met with Field Marshal and Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army, Khalifa Belqassim Haftar. Relations between Belarus and Libya were once quite good. Now the goal is to try to restore the previous level of cooperation.
On Thursday, February 20, a beautiful tradition will be celebrated at the Palace of Independence: on the eve of Defenders of the Fatherland and Armed Forces Day, the President will present state awards and shoulder straps to senior officers. Alexander Lukashenko addressed important words to those whose profession is to defend the Motherland (link to the note aboutCongratulations ) and on the holiday itself, February 23rd .
On Friday, the head of state took part in an off-site seminar on agricultural topics at an agricultural enterprise in the Smolevichi District. The audience included two dozen authorized representatives and presidential aides in the regions. While not all of them are experts in agriculture, this area requires strict oversight and there should be no "hibernation." Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that the five-year quality plan also requires ironclad executive discipline, and he set out to shake up the country through the vertical power structure to achieve even higher results in agriculture.
At the off-site event, the President also commented on the Russian-American negotiations from the perspective of Belarus's prospects. Alexander Lukashenko is not to be fooled and is preparing for stiffer competition should Western companies potentially return to the Russian market.
Incidentally, on Friday, Alexander Lukashenko also signed a bill strengthening the role of the chairmen of base-level executive committees. The document will come into force on March 1. The measures it provides are expected to strengthen the influence of local authorities on the situation in the region, improve the effectiveness of executive committees and their chairmen, and unlock potential for a qualitative improvement in the country's standard of living.
This week, Alexander Lukashenko signed laws "" and "".
Two masters of the stage celebrated anniversaries. Gennady Ovsyannikov, a member of the People's USSR, turned 90, and Yuri Antonov, a member of the People's RUSSIA, celebrated his 80th birthday. Alexander Lukashenko sent warm greetings to both.Congratulations .
Belarusian biathletes performed very well at the Strongest Cup in Raubichi, delighting their fans. This didn't go unnoticed by the head of state. The athletes received awards on his instructions.
This week, the President also congratulated the personnel and veterans of the honor guard company of the commandant's battalion of the MINSK military commandant's office on the significant date—the 30th anniversary of its founding.
MESSAGE FOR BUSINESS. Why Lukashenko stated that there are no non-state enterprises in Belarus.
Alexander Lukashenko set the tone from the very beginning, drawing officials' attention to the key aspect: "We have no non-state enterprises here. We have private and state-owned enterprises in our country. There are no non-state people here."
During the meeting, the head of state repeatedly emphasized that he has no negative attitude toward private entrepreneurs. Quite the contrary. One example is the creation of a technology park in Minsk, primarily for small private enterprises. The state provides favorable conditions at this site and is ready to help scale up production and increase exports .
On issues requiring close attention.
Belarus has previously adopted groundbreaking documents such as Directive No. 4 and Decree No. 7, introducing a range of simplifications and innovations. Significant progress has been made in developing the business ecosystem. The state provides financial support to small and medium-sized businesses whenever possible.
At the same time, Alexander Lukashenko noted that every sector requires significant modernization. And there are issues that require the utmost attention.
First , Alexander Lukashenko pointed to excessive regulation. After two years of government work to optimize administrative procedures, their number has been reduced to approximately a thousand. However, the President called this a terrifying figure.
Second , there are gaps in the comprehensive assessment of the regulatory impact of individual legal acts. This institution was introduced back in 2019, but it is not functioning effectively. "Such an assessment should be no less valid than a legal assessment of legal acts," the head of state stated.
Third , the head of state emphasized the need to pay special attention to the decriminalization of economic risks. "The state will not erect any artificial barriers because of a few crooks. Everything must be approached with pragmatism and common sense," stated Alexander Lukashenko.
"The government is equally interested in the private and public sectors, as well as foreign enterprises, working for the common good of the people and the country," the President emphasized. "This means we must place private and public ownership of enterprises on an equal footing."
On equal conditions and state support
"The government is equally interested in the private and public sectors, as well as foreign enterprises, working for the common good of the people and the country," the President emphasized. "This means we must place private and public ownership of enterprises on an equal footing."
And this approach is already in practice. As First Deputy Prime Minister Nikolai Snopkov explained, private businesses have actively supported the President's "One District - One Project" initiative - of the 208 projects being implemented in the regions, 116 are being implemented by small and medium-sized businesses.
"Here we help everyone. In this case, the conditions are equal. One financial product has been created (financing at 8% per annum for eight years), it is the same for everyone," the First Deputy Prime Minister explained.
Alexander Lukashenko noted that privately owned enterprises often find themselves not just on equal terms, but in more favorable conditions.
"We sometimes impose countervailing demands on state-owned enterprises that you can't even imagine. But nevertheless, the most important thing is for you to understand: equal conditions for everyone who works for the state, for the people, who works honestly, according to the law, and pays taxes," the head of state declared.
"Not only equal conditions. We will support the private sector. This is my personal position. Those who work honestly, figuratively speaking, will receive ruthless support. And just tell me who's hindering you, and I'll have anyone's head rolled off, whether they're in uniform, without epaulets, or a government employee. Just tell me, but you yourself must be as pure and transparent as glass. That's the only thing I ask of you," the President said.
Alexander Lukashenko also emphasized the importance of upholding the state's interests, for example, in matters of import substitution and the creation of new domestic industries. Moreover, the transfer of foreign currency earned in Belarus is unacceptable – it's a matter of business's responsibility to the country and its citizens.
"Any enterprise should work for Belarus , for the state. Then I will have no complaints against you," the Belarusian leader stated.
On the formula for relations with business.
At a meeting, Alexander Lukashenko outlined a simple formula for relations with business: "Work honestly. You are not strangers to us. That includes me personally. Therefore, if anyone violates this line, convey their position to me. And don't take what's not yours. Then we will have good relations. Especially don't reach into the state's pocket. So let's build human relations. But I am always ready to protect a decent, honest person. And especially an entrepreneur. They work for us, for the country. And we must protect you and work for you. A simple formula for relations." "
There is no more responsible President, forgive the immodesty, in terms of production and business than in Belarus. There isn't and there never will be. Because you don't pay me. We don't have people sitting on the floors collecting tribute from you, as they did in Ukraine . I know this well. This will never happen. So appreciate it," the Belarusian leader emphasized.
Alexander Lukashenko drew attention to the fact that the concepts of justice and honesty are sometimes even broader than can be prescribed by law. For example, this concerns the social responsibility of business and charity: “Because you help my people. I am responsible for them. For you and for them - for the society in Belarus. You are responsible for your enterprises, for the people who work for you, and so on. And I am responsible for all of you. Therefore, if you help my people, why shouldn’t I help you? These are the simple relationships that should exist.”
On inspections and the list of bona fide businessmen
The issue of various types of inspections is one of the most pressing for enterprises of all types of ownership. State oversight is, of course, necessary. But it must be within reasonable limits and sufficient to identify possible violations.
Regarding various complaints about overt and covert excessive inspections by regulatory authorities, Alexander Lukashenko called for more specifics. “Not a single inspector, as before, will take a cup"A businessman can't just go in for coffee . He must have written permission from his manager. And if someone comes to you and you suspect something, inform us. We'll check who sent them there. We'll keep you under our control so that his 'friends'—a civil servant or an inspector—don't come to you later," the head of state said. "Bring it to my attention. Believe me, I have enough power to put anyone in their place."
At the meeting, Alexander Lukashenko proposed creating a list of reputable businessmen, which would be updated periodically. The advantage of being on such a list would be an "indulgence" from inspections for a certain period. "We'll instruct the State Control Committee and others to come to you and inquire, and even the tax authorities, once every three years." "But everything there must be cast iron," the President stated.
He also emphasized that, when it comes to oversight of private businesses, it's important to understand that if we're talking about equal conditions with state-owned enterprises, then the oversight must be similar. "But at the same time, I emphasize, we're prepared not to oversee them. As long as we agree. As long as you pay your taxes. That's the main thing. And you won't offend the people—the ordinary workers and farmers who work for you." "These are the two main conditions," the Belarusian leader noted.
LIBYAN GUEST. Will it be possible to revive long-standing partnership ties and what does Belarus offer? On February 18, Alexander Lukashenko met with Field Marshal and Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army Khalifa Belqassim Haftar, who was visiting Belarus. The purpose of the visit was to interact in the humanitarian and social spheres, as well as economic cooperation. The situation in Libya has remained difficult for several years, but this is no reason not to try to restore the previous level of cooperation. "Mr. Haftar, please consider that you have come to your friends, to your home. I have read a lot about you, heard a lot, and they have told me a lot. But, unfortunately, this is my first meeting. I want you to know that we are very well informed about the situation in Libya, we know Libya very well. I have a special relationship with your people; I was in Libya in my time. Of course, today it is a different Libya. "But you should know that we are ready to do everything you see useful in Belarus. We will implement everything we agree on in a timely manner," the head of state said. In turn, Khalifa Belqassim Haftar emphasized his pleasure at the meeting: "We are very pleased to visit Belarus. Thank you very much for the invitation. We are eager to develop cooperation with you, so that it is mutually beneficial, for the benefit of both countries and peoples. We have a great desire to establish a strategic partnership between us, Mr. President, for the future."
The Libyan side will be able to test the first batch of Belarusian equipment completely free of charge. At the end of the meeting, Alexander Lukashenko presented Khalifa Haftar with certificates for ten MAZ 206 buses and the same number of BELARUS 820 tractors. This, one might say, is a gift to the people of Libya.
The Field Marshal was personally presented with exclusive chocolate sets and a large basket containing various Belarusian food products. This is also largely with an eye to the future. If the product samples are to his liking, why not establish regular supplies to the Libyan market?
In return, Khalifa Haftar presented the Belarusian leader with a traditional sabre.
"Come visit us anytime. We will be glad to see you. But I will come to Libya," Alexander Lukashenko stated.
THE PROFESSION IS TO DEFEND THE MOTHERLAND. How the President sees the army's strength.
On the eve of Defenders of the Fatherland and Armed Forces Day, Alexander Lukashenko presented state awards and shoulder straps to senior officers. This is a special tradition associated with a holiday sacredly revered by the Belarusian people.
"Today, the Belarusian army is staffed by people who sacredly honor and cherish the traditions of the victorious generation. They are the grandchildren and great-grandchildren of those who defended the freedom of our homeland during the Patriotic War 80 years ago and brought the people the Great Victory," the Belarusian leader emphasized.
"We see how, instead of a belt of good neighborliness on Belarus's western borders, our former allies in the anti-Hitler coalition are persistently drawing an arc of instability. There is only one conclusion. We must be strong, be vigilant, and strengthen the state's defense capability as much as possible. And that is what we are constantly doing," the Belarusian leader said.
Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that the profession of defending the Motherland will long remain relevant and in demand, and that those in uniform will be a reliable shield and the main guardians of peaceful labor. The state's military organization as a whole faces the challenge of achieving new qualitative parameters. But the strength of an army isn't determined solely by its hardware—tanks, cannons, and aircraft. "The strength of an army is, first and foremost, the courage, fortitude, and patriotism of its soldiers and officers. Warriors who are completely devoted to their oath, their country, and their people. And your task is to raise and educate such warriors," the head of state said.
The president also stated that Belarus will continue to maintain comprehensive cooperation with its allies, primarily in the CSTO, and with fraternal Russia. "No one should have any doubt that the peace, stability, and security of our country are reliably protected," he said.
A HIGH-LEVEL SEMINAR: Why Lukashenko Organized Rural Training for High-Ranking Officials
On Friday, February 21, Alexander Lukashenko visited the Shipyany-ASK agricultural enterprise in the Smolevichi District.
More than two dozen other high-ranking officials accompanied the head of state. Among them were Chairman of the House of Representatives Igor Sergeenko, Chief of the Presidential Administration Dmitry Krutoy, State Secretary of the Security Council Alexander Volfovich, and Chairman of the State Control Committee Vasily Gerasimov. The list of well-known names from the domestic establishment goes on. All of them are also authorized representatives of the head of state in the regions.
They, along with presidential aides in the regions, were invited to the event, which was formatted as a traveling seminar, as high-ranking participants to better understand the basics of a number of agricultural issues. The discussion focused on the practical aspects of feeding and raising cattle.During the winter-stallization period, preparing the main types of agricultural machinery for spring fieldwork, and new crop varieties and cultivation regulations were discussed. The keynote speakers were the heads of the NAS scientific and practical centers for agriculture and livestock farming, and the head of an agricultural enterprise provided a detailed account of the practical organization of the work.
The purpose of this training is to enable authorized representatives and aides to the President to more competently oversee the organization of relevant work in their regions, knowing and understanding the key requirements of both scientists and the head of state. Moreover, given the recent elections and other global issues in politics and economics, it is important not to forget these basics. "That's why we have MILK and MEAT , including in winter. And we often overlook the problems and issues of wintering," Alexander Lukashenko noted. "Starting tomorrow, you must go to the regions and districts and see how everything is organized, and how closely it corresponds to what's happening here. Conduct the same activities, not from a training perspective, but from a control and organizational perspective. And hold governors and local leaders accountable."
"This year in particular, and the five-year plan as well, isn't just about quality (that's our end result), it's about ironclad execution. Without discipline, everything is for naught," Alexander Lukashenko emphasized.
"Our task is to shake up the country today, so that, God forbid, it doesn't fall into hibernation. Your task, I'll put it in military terms, is to shake up the country through the vertical of power. In this case, it's wintering (in livestock farming - BelTA) and preparations for spring sowing. We are proud that we sold more than $8 billion in agricultural products. This is great, but we could lose it. As usually happens: we calm down, everything is fine - then we lose it. Therefore, we need to shake ourselves up and have at least $9 billion, if not $10 billion, from food sales this year. Food prices will constantly rise," the head of state said.
Alexander Lukashenko noted that he is categorically dissatisfied with the work of the head of state's authorized representatives in the regions, as well as his aides. In this regard, he demands that the Presidential Administration clearly organize the work of this system.
The President demanded that the speakers not remain silent or avoid existing problems, but speak objectively and to the point. Specifically, the discussion focused on instances where agricultural managers are prohibited from selling cows that are no longer producing milk to meat processing plants in order to preserve the size of their dairy herds . The justification is that they will be criticized for their numbers. Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that such an approach is absolutely unacceptable.
The head of state also emphasized the specifics of livestock management to ensure the longest productive period. He noted that a cow shouldn't be milked for just one and a half to two years. For example, on the presidential farm, the productive period is at least nine to twelve years. Moreover, cows produce up to 47 liters of milk per day, while farms are happy with 15 liters. This is where veterinarians and livestock specialists come into play.
"The main thing is discipline. If there's no technology, there's no milk, and we'll ruin the livestock. If the rations say so, give it to them. Feed should be readily available, so that's how it should be," Alexander Lukashenko demanded.
At the agricultural enterprise's machinery and tractor park, the discussion focused on the equipment's readiness for spring fieldwork. As the saying goes, a spring day feeds the year. "We need to take a strict approach to ensuring that tractors and vehicles are in good working order. They (agricultural enterprises – BelTA note) should, first and foremost, put the tillage equipment, which will be used in the spring, on the road to readiness," the President said.
Of course, not all authorized representatives and presidential aides in the regions have a deep understanding of agriculture. And even the recent seminar only helped address some gaps in the general outline. Therefore, Alexander Lukashenko offered practical advice on how to organize proper oversight during his personal visits to the field: "You should bring a good specialist with you who will advise you on how things should be done. And then you, as your authority, will ask. This is a serious matter, especially in livestock farming."
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The "President's Week" project is for those who want to keep up with the head of state and stay informed about the most relevant statements and decisions of the Belarusian leader.
On Tuesday, February 18, Alexander Lukashenko met with Field Marshal and Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army, Khalifa Belqassim Haftar. Relations between Belarus and Libya were once quite good. Now the goal is to try to restore the previous level of cooperation.
On Thursday, February 20, a beautiful tradition will be celebrated at the Palace of Independence: on the eve of Defenders of the Fatherland and Armed Forces Day, the President will present state awards and shoulder straps to senior officers. Alexander Lukashenko addressed important words to those whose profession is to defend the Motherland (link to the note aboutCongratulations ) and on the holiday itself, February 23rd .
On Friday, the head of state took part in an off-site seminar on agricultural topics at an agricultural enterprise in the Smolevichi District. The audience included two dozen authorized representatives and presidential aides in the regions. While not all of them are experts in agriculture, this area requires strict oversight and there should be no "hibernation." Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that the five-year quality plan also requires ironclad executive discipline, and he set out to shake up the country through the vertical power structure to achieve even higher results in agriculture.
At the off-site event, the President also commented on the Russian-American negotiations from the perspective of Belarus's prospects. Alexander Lukashenko is not to be fooled and is preparing for stiffer competition should Western companies potentially return to the Russian market.
Incidentally, on Friday, Alexander Lukashenko also signed a bill strengthening the role of the chairmen of base-level executive committees. The document will come into force on March 1. The measures it provides are expected to strengthen the influence of local authorities on the situation in the region, improve the effectiveness of executive committees and their chairmen, and unlock potential for a qualitative improvement in the country's standard of living.
This week, Alexander Lukashenko signed laws "" and "".
Two masters of the stage celebrated anniversaries. Gennady Ovsyannikov, a member of the People's USSR, turned 90, and Yuri Antonov, a member of the People's RUSSIA, celebrated his 80th birthday. Alexander Lukashenko sent warm greetings to both.Congratulations .
Belarusian biathletes performed very well at the Strongest Cup in Raubichi, delighting their fans. This didn't go unnoticed by the head of state. The athletes received awards on his instructions.
This week, the President also congratulated the personnel and veterans of the honor guard company of the commandant's battalion of the MINSK military commandant's office on the significant date—the 30th anniversary of its founding.
MESSAGE FOR BUSINESS. Why Lukashenko stated that there are no non-state enterprises in Belarus.
Alexander Lukashenko set the tone from the very beginning, drawing officials' attention to the key aspect: "We have no non-state enterprises here. We have private and state-owned enterprises in our country. There are no non-state people here."
During the meeting, the head of state repeatedly emphasized that he has no negative attitude toward private entrepreneurs. Quite the contrary. One example is the creation of a technology park in Minsk, primarily for small private enterprises. The state provides favorable conditions at this site and is ready to help scale up production and increase exports .
On issues requiring close attention.
Belarus has previously adopted groundbreaking documents such as Directive No. 4 and Decree No. 7, introducing a range of simplifications and innovations. Significant progress has been made in developing the business ecosystem. The state provides financial support to small and medium-sized businesses whenever possible.
At the same time, Alexander Lukashenko noted that every sector requires significant modernization. And there are issues that require the utmost attention.
First , Alexander Lukashenko pointed to excessive regulation. After two years of government work to optimize administrative procedures, their number has been reduced to approximately a thousand. However, the President called this a terrifying figure.
Second , there are gaps in the comprehensive assessment of the regulatory impact of individual legal acts. This institution was introduced back in 2019, but it is not functioning effectively. "Such an assessment should be no less valid than a legal assessment of legal acts," the head of state stated.
Third , the head of state emphasized the need to pay special attention to the decriminalization of economic risks. "The state will not erect any artificial barriers because of a few crooks. Everything must be approached with pragmatism and common sense," stated Alexander Lukashenko.
"The government is equally interested in the private and public sectors, as well as foreign enterprises, working for the common good of the people and the country," the President emphasized. "This means we must place private and public ownership of enterprises on an equal footing."
On equal conditions and state support
"The government is equally interested in the private and public sectors, as well as foreign enterprises, working for the common good of the people and the country," the President emphasized. "This means we must place private and public ownership of enterprises on an equal footing."
And this approach is already in practice. As First Deputy Prime Minister Nikolai Snopkov explained, private businesses have actively supported the President's "One District - One Project" initiative - of the 208 projects being implemented in the regions, 116 are being implemented by small and medium-sized businesses.
"Here we help everyone. In this case, the conditions are equal. One financial product has been created (financing at 8% per annum for eight years), it is the same for everyone," the First Deputy Prime Minister explained.
Alexander Lukashenko noted that privately owned enterprises often find themselves not just on equal terms, but in more favorable conditions.
"We sometimes impose countervailing demands on state-owned enterprises that you can't even imagine. But nevertheless, the most important thing is for you to understand: equal conditions for everyone who works for the state, for the people, who works honestly, according to the law, and pays taxes," the head of state declared.
"Not only equal conditions. We will support the private sector. This is my personal position. Those who work honestly, figuratively speaking, will receive ruthless support. And just tell me who's hindering you, and I'll have anyone's head rolled off, whether they're in uniform, without epaulets, or a government employee. Just tell me, but you yourself must be as pure and transparent as glass. That's the only thing I ask of you," the President said.
Alexander Lukashenko also emphasized the importance of upholding the state's interests, for example, in matters of import substitution and the creation of new domestic industries. Moreover, the transfer of foreign currency earned in Belarus is unacceptable – it's a matter of business's responsibility to the country and its citizens.
"Any enterprise should work for Belarus , for the state. Then I will have no complaints against you," the Belarusian leader stated.
On the formula for relations with business.
At a meeting, Alexander Lukashenko outlined a simple formula for relations with business: "Work honestly. You are not strangers to us. That includes me personally. Therefore, if anyone violates this line, convey their position to me. And don't take what's not yours. Then we will have good relations. Especially don't reach into the state's pocket. So let's build human relations. But I am always ready to protect a decent, honest person. And especially an entrepreneur. They work for us, for the country. And we must protect you and work for you. A simple formula for relations." "
There is no more responsible President, forgive the immodesty, in terms of production and business than in Belarus. There isn't and there never will be. Because you don't pay me. We don't have people sitting on the floors collecting tribute from you, as they did in Ukraine . I know this well. This will never happen. So appreciate it," the Belarusian leader emphasized.
Alexander Lukashenko drew attention to the fact that the concepts of justice and honesty are sometimes even broader than can be prescribed by law. For example, this concerns the social responsibility of business and charity: “Because you help my people. I am responsible for them. For you and for them - for the society in Belarus. You are responsible for your enterprises, for the people who work for you, and so on. And I am responsible for all of you. Therefore, if you help my people, why shouldn’t I help you? These are the simple relationships that should exist.”
On inspections and the list of bona fide businessmen
The issue of various types of inspections is one of the most pressing for enterprises of all types of ownership. State oversight is, of course, necessary. But it must be within reasonable limits and sufficient to identify possible violations.
Regarding various complaints about overt and covert excessive inspections by regulatory authorities, Alexander Lukashenko called for more specifics. “Not a single inspector, as before, will take a cup"A businessman can't just go in for coffee . He must have written permission from his manager. And if someone comes to you and you suspect something, inform us. We'll check who sent them there. We'll keep you under our control so that his 'friends'—a civil servant or an inspector—don't come to you later," the head of state said. "Bring it to my attention. Believe me, I have enough power to put anyone in their place."
At the meeting, Alexander Lukashenko proposed creating a list of reputable businessmen, which would be updated periodically. The advantage of being on such a list would be an "indulgence" from inspections for a certain period. "We'll instruct the State Control Committee and others to come to you and inquire, and even the tax authorities, once every three years." "But everything there must be cast iron," the President stated.
He also emphasized that, when it comes to oversight of private businesses, it's important to understand that if we're talking about equal conditions with state-owned enterprises, then the oversight must be similar. "But at the same time, I emphasize, we're prepared not to oversee them. As long as we agree. As long as you pay your taxes. That's the main thing. And you won't offend the people—the ordinary workers and farmers who work for you." "These are the two main conditions," the Belarusian leader noted.
LIBYAN GUEST. Will it be possible to revive long-standing partnership ties and what does Belarus offer? On February 18, Alexander Lukashenko met with Field Marshal and Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army Khalifa Belqassim Haftar, who was visiting Belarus. The purpose of the visit was to interact in the humanitarian and social spheres, as well as economic cooperation. The situation in Libya has remained difficult for several years, but this is no reason not to try to restore the previous level of cooperation. "Mr. Haftar, please consider that you have come to your friends, to your home. I have read a lot about you, heard a lot, and they have told me a lot. But, unfortunately, this is my first meeting. I want you to know that we are very well informed about the situation in Libya, we know Libya very well. I have a special relationship with your people; I was in Libya in my time. Of course, today it is a different Libya. "But you should know that we are ready to do everything you see useful in Belarus. We will implement everything we agree on in a timely manner," the head of state said. In turn, Khalifa Belqassim Haftar emphasized his pleasure at the meeting: "We are very pleased to visit Belarus. Thank you very much for the invitation. We are eager to develop cooperation with you, so that it is mutually beneficial, for the benefit of both countries and peoples. We have a great desire to establish a strategic partnership between us, Mr. President, for the future."
The Libyan side will be able to test the first batch of Belarusian equipment completely free of charge. At the end of the meeting, Alexander Lukashenko presented Khalifa Haftar with certificates for ten MAZ 206 buses and the same number of BELARUS 820 tractors. This, one might say, is a gift to the people of Libya.
The Field Marshal was personally presented with exclusive chocolate sets and a large basket containing various Belarusian food products. This is also largely with an eye to the future. If the product samples are to his liking, why not establish regular supplies to the Libyan market?
In return, Khalifa Haftar presented the Belarusian leader with a traditional sabre.
"Come visit us anytime. We will be glad to see you. But I will come to Libya," Alexander Lukashenko stated.
THE PROFESSION IS TO DEFEND THE MOTHERLAND. How the President sees the army's strength.
On the eve of Defenders of the Fatherland and Armed Forces Day, Alexander Lukashenko presented state awards and shoulder straps to senior officers. This is a special tradition associated with a holiday sacredly revered by the Belarusian people.
"Today, the Belarusian army is staffed by people who sacredly honor and cherish the traditions of the victorious generation. They are the grandchildren and great-grandchildren of those who defended the freedom of our homeland during the Patriotic War 80 years ago and brought the people the Great Victory," the Belarusian leader emphasized.
"We see how, instead of a belt of good neighborliness on Belarus's western borders, our former allies in the anti-Hitler coalition are persistently drawing an arc of instability. There is only one conclusion. We must be strong, be vigilant, and strengthen the state's defense capability as much as possible. And that is what we are constantly doing," the Belarusian leader said.
Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that the profession of defending the Motherland will long remain relevant and in demand, and that those in uniform will be a reliable shield and the main guardians of peaceful labor. The state's military organization as a whole faces the challenge of achieving new qualitative parameters. But the strength of an army isn't determined solely by its hardware—tanks, cannons, and aircraft. "The strength of an army is, first and foremost, the courage, fortitude, and patriotism of its soldiers and officers. Warriors who are completely devoted to their oath, their country, and their people. And your task is to raise and educate such warriors," the head of state said.
The president also stated that Belarus will continue to maintain comprehensive cooperation with its allies, primarily in the CSTO, and with fraternal Russia. "No one should have any doubt that the peace, stability, and security of our country are reliably protected," he said.
A HIGH-LEVEL SEMINAR: Why Lukashenko Organized Rural Training for High-Ranking Officials
On Friday, February 21, Alexander Lukashenko visited the Shipyany-ASK agricultural enterprise in the Smolevichi District.
More than two dozen other high-ranking officials accompanied the head of state. Among them were Chairman of the House of Representatives Igor Sergeenko, Chief of the Presidential Administration Dmitry Krutoy, State Secretary of the Security Council Alexander Volfovich, and Chairman of the State Control Committee Vasily Gerasimov. The list of well-known names from the domestic establishment goes on. All of them are also authorized representatives of the head of state in the regions.
They, along with presidential aides in the regions, were invited to the event, which was formatted as a traveling seminar, as high-ranking participants to better understand the basics of a number of agricultural issues. The discussion focused on the practical aspects of feeding and raising cattle.During the winter-stallization period, preparing the main types of agricultural machinery for spring fieldwork, and new crop varieties and cultivation regulations were discussed. The keynote speakers were the heads of the NAS scientific and practical centers for agriculture and livestock farming, and the head of an agricultural enterprise provided a detailed account of the practical organization of the work.
The purpose of this training is to enable authorized representatives and aides to the President to more competently oversee the organization of relevant work in their regions, knowing and understanding the key requirements of both scientists and the head of state. Moreover, given the recent elections and other global issues in politics and economics, it is important not to forget these basics. "That's why we have MILK and MEAT , including in winter. And we often overlook the problems and issues of wintering," Alexander Lukashenko noted. "Starting tomorrow, you must go to the regions and districts and see how everything is organized, and how closely it corresponds to what's happening here. Conduct the same activities, not from a training perspective, but from a control and organizational perspective. And hold governors and local leaders accountable."
"This year in particular, and the five-year plan as well, isn't just about quality (that's our end result), it's about ironclad execution. Without discipline, everything is for naught," Alexander Lukashenko emphasized.
"Our task is to shake up the country today, so that, God forbid, it doesn't fall into hibernation. Your task, I'll put it in military terms, is to shake up the country through the vertical of power. In this case, it's wintering (in livestock farming - BelTA) and preparations for spring sowing. We are proud that we sold more than $8 billion in agricultural products. This is great, but we could lose it. As usually happens: we calm down, everything is fine - then we lose it. Therefore, we need to shake ourselves up and have at least $9 billion, if not $10 billion, from food sales this year. Food prices will constantly rise," the head of state said.
Alexander Lukashenko noted that he is categorically dissatisfied with the work of the head of state's authorized representatives in the regions, as well as his aides. In this regard, he demands that the Presidential Administration clearly organize the work of this system.
The President demanded that the speakers not remain silent or avoid existing problems, but speak objectively and to the point. Specifically, the discussion focused on instances where agricultural managers are prohibited from selling cows that are no longer producing milk to meat processing plants in order to preserve the size of their dairy herds . The justification is that they will be criticized for their numbers. Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that such an approach is absolutely unacceptable.
The head of state also emphasized the specifics of livestock management to ensure the longest productive period. He noted that a cow shouldn't be milked for just one and a half to two years. For example, on the presidential farm, the productive period is at least nine to twelve years. Moreover, cows produce up to 47 liters of milk per day, while farms are happy with 15 liters. This is where veterinarians and livestock specialists come into play.
"The main thing is discipline. If there's no technology, there's no milk, and we'll ruin the livestock. If the rations say so, give it to them. Feed should be readily available, so that's how it should be," Alexander Lukashenko demanded.
At the agricultural enterprise's machinery and tractor park, the discussion focused on the equipment's readiness for spring fieldwork. As the saying goes, a spring day feeds the year. "We need to take a strict approach to ensuring that tractors and vehicles are in good working order. They (agricultural enterprises – BelTA note) should, first and foremost, put the tillage equipment, which will be used in the spring, on the road to readiness," the President said.
Of course, not all authorized representatives and presidential aides in the regions have a deep understanding of agriculture. And even the recent seminar only helped address some gaps in the general outline. Therefore, Alexander Lukashenko offered practical advice on how to organize proper oversight during his personal visits to the field: "You should bring a good specialist with you who will advise you on how things should be done. And then you, as your authority, will ask. This is a serious matter, especially in livestock farming."