On December 26, Minsk / Alina Grishkevich - BELTA/. Belarus must reach higher levels in the new year to fulfill the commitments undertaken at the IV All-Belarusian People's Congress. This was stated by President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko at the state awards ceremony on December 26, BELTA was informed by the press service of the Belarusian leader. Among those awarded are workers of various specialties, enterprise managers, figures of culture and art, education, military personnel, athletes, and service sector specialists. The Head of State said it was a pleasure to conclude the current, very challenging year on such an optimistic note as the solemn presentation of state awards to the country's best people. "You have earned them through your successful work, significant achievements in various fields, talent, and sincere love for the Fatherland," the President said, addressing the awardees. At the same time, the Head of State emphasized that their example convincingly proves that human will is stronger than circumstances and that any difficulties can be overcome through energy, purposefulness, and persistence in achieving set goals. Alexander Lukashenko positively assessed the activities of the deputies of the House of Representatives, a group of whom were also awarded. The Head of State stressed: "Representing different regions of the country, you acted in a coordinated and responsible manner, strived for constructive cooperation, and avoided any political strife. The success of your work was largely due to this aspiration for harmony and consolidation of forces." According to the President, the deputies have done a lot to improve the legal system, social policy, and the country's defense capability. Their efforts have also contributed to integration processes in the post-Soviet space and the growth of Belarus's prestige on the world stage. "May these high awards become further confirmation of your significant contribution to the development and strengthening of our state," wished Alexander Lukashenko. When awarding the heads of several enterprises, the President stated that the outgoing year had been extremely responsible for them. "Through your efforts, qualitative parameters of our economy and its efficiency have been improved," noted the Head of State. Among those awarded are also distinguished workers and specialists. In particular, these are employees of Baranovichi Machine-Tool Plant (a branch of Atlant CJSC) and Agat - Control Systems OJSC.Alexander Lukashenko noted the importance not only of production successes but also of achievements by representatives of culture, education, and sports. When presenting state awards to artists, cultural figures, and educators as a sign of deep respect and recognition of their merits in creativity and spiritual creation, the Head of State said: "Public attention is focused on you, and the results of your work are always visible. Create for the good of the Motherland, and may inspiration never leave you." Alexander Lukashenko also awarded athletes, prize-winners of prestigious international cycling competitions. Servicemen, members of the national team of the Security Service of the Head of State, who won the world championship among bodyguards in 2011, were awarded the President's Letters of Gratitude. The Head of State emphasized: "Your victories are the victories of Belarus. You have earned recognition both in our country and far beyond its borders. Thank you for your dedication and your ability to never give up." The President noted that modern life imposes increasingly stringent requirements on the foresight of legislators, the professionalism of managers, the skill of producers, the spiritual potential of cultural figures, and the determination of athletes. "Your experience shows that in every profession, in any field, success can be achieved if you approach the matter responsibly and with heart," said the Head of State. Alexander Lukashenko wished everyone new achievements, happiness, and well-being. -0-

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