25 May, Polotsk /Vladimir Matveev - BELTA/. President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko has approved the master plan for the development of Polotsk. The Head of State announced this today while speaking during a concert dedicated to the 1150th anniversary of the city, as reported by a BELTA correspondent. As Alexander Lukashenko noted, having visited Polotsk, he was pleased to see that the city has not stagnated in its development, nor has it turned into a museum city living solely on past glory. "Its focus on the future is evident everywhere: in new buildings and industrial enterprises, in the plans and attitudes of the people. Life is bustling here. The economy, social sphere, education, and culture are developing successfully, and comfortable conditions are being created for the residents of Polotsk and numerous guests. At the same time, the rich heritage of past centuries is being carefully and wisely preserved," said the Head of State. At the same time, the President observed, there are residents of the city who do not fully embrace the plans for the modernization of Polotsk. "I must say to those who directly, openly, or secretly try to oppose the modernization of our city: modernization is not a superficial update; we aim to extract from ancient times everything that we do not see today, so that our nation can be proud of what is on the Polotsk lands," noted Alexander Lukashenko. "For these people, I want to say: I have made a decision – a master plan for the restoration of Polotsk. Polotsk will be a city, as a pillar of spirituality and culture for our people," emphasized the Head of State. "Therefore, to those who are currently trying to go door-to-door and collect signatures – do not rush, parliamentary elections will be held soon. Preserve this spirit, you will need it again, and we will turn Polotsk into a true Mecca for cultured people. The decision has been made," added the President. During his visit to Polotsk State University, Alexander Lukashenko was briefed on the project for the restoration and reconstruction of the historical part of Polotsk. In particular, it concerns the development of infrastructure in the territories adjacent to the Spaso-Yevfrosinievsky Monastery and the Saint Sophia Cathedral. The Head of State approved the proposed plans. "Everything must be preserved and restored," he said. "I want to believe that thanks to the implementation of the concept for the development of the infrastructure of the historical districts of Polotsk, this beautiful city will be reborn and will become one of the most promising cultural and tourist centers of our country," emphasized the President while speaking during the concert. -0-

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