Renovation in pig farming, open hearts for Africa, plans with Uzbekistan and the first beauty. President's week in review

Characterising the current situation, the Head of State cited statistical data. Thus, pig production (rearing) has decreased by almost 12% over two years. The volumes achieved have not even approached the planned targets in the state programme "Agrarian Business" for 2021-2025, but rather the opposite. A reduction in production is observed in all regions, and in the Gomel region, it has halved.

The pig population has decreased by more than 11%, or by 290 thousand heads. The largest decrease is noted in the Gomel and Minsk regions.

Pig mortality has increased in almost every second district of the country. The number of piglets born has decreased by 8%.

"Against the backdrop of the failed past years, the progress in restoring the pig population and production (rearing) volumes across the republic this year can be described as insignificant," said the Head of State. "That is, there is growth, but it is at the level of an arithmetic error."

As reported to the President, pig mortality continues to rise in all regions except Grodno and Minsk. The number of piglets has decreased due to a reduction in farrowing in the Vitebsk and Minsk regions. Indicators of efficiency are declining, and the number of loss-making organisations involved in pig farming is growing, noted Alexander Lukashenko, highlighting the problematic aspects.

The reasons for the current situation are obvious. The Head of State pointed them out – these are gross violations of the biological protection of complexes: insufficient work on pest and bird control, disinfection, and provision of special clothing. Problems with pig accounting, instances of padding and concealment of mortality are noted.

As a result, the President's requirements to restore the pig population and pork production volumes to the 2012 level, set back in 2014, have not yet been met.

The Head of State believes that to rectify the situation, it is primarily necessary to observe elementary measures of technological and labour discipline, intensify selection and breeding work, and improve compound feed formulations. Belarusian scientists should also be involved in solving the problematic issues.

Incidentally, the BNBC is operating in the country, which can do anything for the needs of the industry. "Negotiate and get the best compound feeds," said the Head of State.

On Modernisation and a Matter of State Importance

The President also stated at the meeting the need to modernise the country's pig breeding complexes, similar to dairy farms. There must be a specific programme for putting these complexes in order, as many of them are worn out, obsolete both morally and physically.

In this regard, the President recalled that at one time, at his instruction, medium-sized pig breeding complexes (for approximately 24,000 head) were built in certain farms, which proved to be excellent.

At the same time, the head of state focused on the issue of ensuring the biological protection of pig breeding complexes, which, according to him, is a matter of state importance. "Please keep in mind: the fact that we heroically organise the harvest, help agriculture with equipment, fertilisers and other financial means - this is the business of the agrarian sector, as it is fashionable to say now. This is the business of governors, chairmen of district executive committees, farm managers. But ensuring order, biological protection - here, from our side, the state side, there must be the strictest control. Just like soil fertility. Melioration, soil fertility, roads and so on - these are state issues for which we must be responsible. Therefore, the issue of biological protection of complexes, order at the complex - is a matter of state importance," emphasised the Belarusian leader.

On the results of the meeting

Governors reported in detail to the head of state on the state of affairs in the pig breeding industry of the regions. It was substantively discussed what should be done with those pig breeding complexes that operate unprofitably, based on outdated technologies. The main message from the President is to move towards the creation of high-tech complexes, both in modernising existing ones and in building new ones. A detailed analysis needs to be carried out by region to determine where, how many and what kind of complexes need to be built or reconstructed, and what assistance and participation will be provided by the state.

Alexander Lukashenko instructed to pay special attention to the issues of profitability of both newly built facilities and existing ones. If, for example, some individual complexes are chronically unprofitable, then there is no need to artificially support them and pull them through at any cost.

Compliance with technological and labour discipline, and order at pig breeding complexes, as already noted, is a matter of state importance.

The issue of pork imports to Belarus was also discussed. It was emphasized that the country produces enough pork to meet its own needs, and no deficit is observed. Imports of this product are mainly for the needs of the meat processing industry and from countries where this product is more competitive than domestic production due to price factors.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Sergey Bartosz confirmed to journalists that a program for the construction and modernization of pig breeding complexes will be developed in the country. It is necessary to restore the production volumes of pig breeding products that were achieved earlier. It is planned to build about 14 large technologically advanced complexes, each designed for a herd of about 24 thousand heads.

In turn, the Chairman of the Minsk Regional Executive Committee, Alexander Turchin, emphasized that the construction of modern pig complexes is not only about technology but also about protection against certain diseases accumulated in old pig complexes. As for the Minsk region, the President's instruction to reach the 2012 pork production level has been fulfilled and even exceeded in the region.

The Chairman of the Grodno Regional Executive Committee, Vladimir Karanik, said that the region produces more than a quarter of all pork in the country. Various pig complexes are in operation, but he considers complexes for 24 thousand heads to be the most optimal: "To ensure safety, reduce risks and environmental impact, 24 thousand heads seem optimal. Both the design of new complexes and reconstruction are carried out with this figure in mind."

Overall, the agricultural sector of Belarus fully satisfies the demand of the Belarusian population for pork. For example, in the Grodno region, only a quarter of the pork produced goes to retail shelves, and the rest is processed.

GENERAL COURSE. What brings Belarus and Uzbekistan closer and what the Uzbek people are fortunate for

On September 5, a meeting between the President of Belarus and the Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis (upper house of parliament) of Uzbekistan, Tanzila Narbaeva, took place at the Palace of Independence.

It is noteworthy that the visit took place in the year of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Belarus and Uzbekistan. "Much has been done, but there is still room for improvement in these challenging times, when international relations are at a turning point," the President characterized the level of cooperation.

Belarus is ready to develop relations with Uzbekistan and share any technologies. The Head of State particularly emphasized the effective interaction between the two countries and mutual support in international platforms and regional associations, expressing gratitude for the support in accelerating Belarus's accession to the SCO. "We will always support you, because your course towards peace, friendly relations with neighbors and other countries is also our course," noted Alexander Lukashenko.

On regional cooperation

The President believes that the Belarusian-Uzbek Women's Business Forum held in Minsk this week will also play a role in developing relations. "I would very much like us to move towards regional cooperation (as with the Russian Federation, we already have experience), the basis of which is the economy. This is important for us, and even more so for Uzbekistan in terms of technology. Starting not with simple trade, but with enterprise cooperation, transferring our technologies to Uzbekistan – this would be very interesting for you. We are absolutely ready to work openly in this direction," emphasized Alexander Lukashenko.

The Head of State noted that Belarus has a very warm attitude towards Uzbekistan and its people, who are similar to Belarusians in the main aspect – they are very hardworking people who have had to overcome many trials in their history.

On electoral experience

The current visit of the parliamentary delegation of Uzbekistan to Minsk took place after important domestic political events held there – the constitutional referendum and early presidential elections. "Well done. Neatly. There were some glitches beforehand, you reacted beautifully and in a timely manner (I told Shavkat Mirziyoyev about this). People are not offended by you. Our observers were there and saw that everything was done with dignity," said the Belarusian leader. "You are well done in this regard. This is important for us, because we are also improving our fundamental law, our election legislation."

The President explained that in the near future Belarus will also hold elections, a single voting day, and form not only the chambers of parliament but also the supreme representative body of people's power – the All-Belarusian People's Assembly. In this context, Uzbekistan's recent experience is of interest to the country. "Your advice on what to pay attention to in the current situation is very important for us," said the Head of State.

On the President of Uzbekistan

Speaking about his personal attitude towards the country, Alexander Lukashenko said that he has been closely observing the development of Uzbekistan for a long time and believes that the people are fortunate with the current leader, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev: "You have a very good President. I tell him to his face: you must not let down the people who trust and believe in you so much."

"You are fortunate in that he passionately wants to make life better for Uzbekistan and its people," added the Belarusian leader. "Uzbekistan has a great future. And my advice to you is to try to keep your President for as long as possible. He needs time to unfold."

On plans to visit the Uzbek mountains in winter

Alexander Lukashenko said that he had visited Uzbekistan many times, and not long ago, together with Shavkat Mirziyoyev, he visited the south of the republic, which has stunningly beautiful places. The head of the Uzbek state once again invited his Belarusian counterpart to his country, but, as the President of Belarus admitted, he would like to visit the mountainous regions of this country in winter.

"I will try to break away in the near future to visit your mountains," he said.

In turn, Tanzila Narbaeva conveyed greetings from the President of Uzbekistan and an invitation to visit the country: the Belarusian leader is expected in Uzbekistan at the end of this year or the beginning of next year.

FOR EMIGRANTS' ATTENTION. What changes have occurred since September 7 for citizens of Belarus residing abroad

On September 4, the President signed Decree No. 278 "On the Procedure for Issuing Documents and Performing Actions". The document is aimed at further improving the procedure for carrying out administrative procedures and optimising the activities of diplomatic missions and consular institutions of Belarus. The decree establishes the procedure for carrying out administrative procedures, as well as notarial acts that diplomatic agents and consular officials are entitled to perform.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus has additionally commented on the innovations that have occurred. The decree came into force on September 7. It introduces changes to the list of consular actions and administrative procedures performed by foreign institutions upon applications from citizens.

Embassies and consulates will continue to handle citizenship and consular registration matters, civil status registration, and permanent residence arrangements outside of Belarus. They will also continue to issue return certificates to Belarus, attest wills, consents, waivers, and certify the authenticity of document copies and signatures.

However, embassies and consulates are no longer authorized to issue, exchange, or extend all types of passports and identification cards. Such actions can be carried out within the territory of Belarus.

Citizens who have arranged permanent residence outside of Belarus and are registered with foreign institutions for permanent consular учет (registration) will be able to apply for passport exchange at the Main Consular Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or at the Citizenship and Migration Department of the Internal Affairs Directorate at their last place of registration in Belarus (or at their parents' last place of residence for individuals who have not resided in the republic).

The apostille will also be affixed by one of the competent authorities in Belarus (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Justice, and the main justice departments of the Minsk City Executive Committee and regional executive committees, depending on the type of document). Documents can only be submitted in person by the owner or by another person presenting a power of attorney issued in the country.

In-person submission of documents to the relevant authority is also provided for a number of other administrative procedures listed in the corresponding annex to the decree (for obtaining civil registry certificates, duplicate civil status registration certificates (except for death), etc.).

Applications submitted before the decree comes into force will be processed according to the previously applicable procedure.

DECOLONIZATION. In what capacity is Belarus heading to Africa and what can it offer?

The President of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, paid an official visit to Belarus during the week. The country is small in territory and population but rich in natural resources, primarily oil and gas. The country ranks first in Africa in terms of GDP per capita.

Alexander Lukashenko warmly welcomed his counterpart at the Palace of Independence: "I am glad to meet you in Belarus. We have been waiting for you for a long time. When they talk about Africa in our north, it's something romantic, mysterious. Everyone perceives this continent differently. But everyone absolutely agrees that the future of our planet largely belongs to Africa. I also hold this opinion. For me, Africa is no longer a mysterious continent. If I used to visit North Africa more often, then in recent years I have managed to visit both the center of Africa and the south of your continent. Therefore, I have an idea of what Africa is, and I am pleased with the processes that are taking place and that Africa is undergoing."

Africa is developing and is increasingly freeing itself from its colonial past, and on this path, Belarus is ready to lend a shoulder and extend a hand of friendship. Despite having natural resources, many countries on the continent are characterised by technological and economic dependence on former colonisers. In other words, the times of slavery and exploitation have not disappeared, but have only acquired more civilised and veiled forms.

Belarus, being a technological country itself, is ready to share these technologies not only with Equatorial Guinea but also with other African states that are interested in this. "You should know that you are not strangers to us. To us - Belarusians, Russians. Because we have a history of cooperation that goes back to the development and existence of the Soviet Union. Since you are close and not strangers to us, we invite you to Belarus and open our hearts to you," the Belarusian leader emphasised.

Following the negotiations, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo particularly noted his gratitude to the Belarusian side for the friendly approach shown and readiness for joint work. "We share the readiness to implement effective joint work, to real cooperation, which will allow us to realise the potential of our countries," he stressed. "It is obvious that this cooperation can become a platform not only to help Equatorial Guinea but also other African states suffering from extreme poverty."

The President of Equatorial Guinea is convinced that the independence achieved by African states many years ago is still nominal, as many of them remain under strong economic pressure: "We suffer from dependence on those countries that colonized us in their time, the Western countries," he said. "We have come here and want to receive support for the work that Equatorial Guinea is already doing on its own to ensure transformation (on the African continent. - BELTA's note)."

The leader of the African country arrived in Belarus on the evening of September 6. The programme was very busy and included official negotiations, signing of bilateral documents, visits to enterprises, and familiarisation with the capabilities of Belarusian manufacturers. At the end of the visit on September 8, Alexander Lukashenko personally saw off his counterpart at the airport.

On the Renaissance of Africa

"It is obvious that Africa is experiencing a kind of renaissance. Before our eyes, it is becoming the key to the sustainable development of the planet in the twenty-first century," stated the Belarusian leader.

According to him, this is clearly evidenced by the joint peacekeeping mission of the leaders of the African Union countries to Ukraine and Russia, and Africa's active role in BRICS and the Non-Aligned Movement.

"The countries of the continent are determined to break free from the dictate of Western transnational corporations, which have imposed on them the role of raw material appendages, pumping out oil, gold, and gas, condemning the peoples of Africa to a miserable existence and hunger," said Alexander Lukashenko.

For Belarus and Equatorial Guinea, a multipolar just world, where all issues will be resolved at the negotiating table in an honest, respectful, and equitable dialogue, has no alternative. "Despite the pressure and resistance from a number of major global players, Africa's voice in favour of the inevitability of such a world order is becoming louder and clearer," stated the President of Belarus. "We see that the states of the African continent are increasingly pursuing an independent, sovereign, peace-loving policy, without looking back at the countries of the so-called golden billion."

Minsk has consistently provided comprehensive support for this aspiration over many years. Visits to Zimbabwe, high-level contacts with Egypt, and plans to work with Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Uganda, South Africa, and a number of other states serve as confirmation of this.

On the Difference Between Belarus and Western "Democratizers"

"Unlike Western 'democratizers,' Belarus is ready to help you be masters of your own land for the benefit of your own people: to create a national industry, modernize agriculture, and develop science and technology. By working within the Eurasian Economic Union, together with Russia and other republics of the former Soviet Union, we offer your country access to unique technologies, goods, and services," said the Head of State.

He noted that Belarus has lived under Western pressure for three decades and categorically rejects any attempts at coercion. "Belarusians not only do not suffer from colonial habits but also do not try to impose anything on anyone. Minsk advocates for a just, multipolar world, and we are coming to Africa as friends. Our equipment and technologies are well-known on your continent, and many of your doctors and engineers studied in Belarusian universities, so we should not have any particular difficulties in establishing dialogue. I am convinced we will not," stated Alexander Lukashenko.

On Promising Directions

The Head of State emphasized that a country's independence and sovereignty are, above all, a strong economy, and Belarus has the experience and developments to become an active participant in the socio-economic prosperity of Africa and its final liberation from the oppression of former metropolises.

Regarding Equatorial Guinea, Belarus is ready to assist in the country's industrialization, modernization of agriculture, ensuring food security, and supplying a wide range of machinery, other industrial, and food products.

"We also possess strong competencies in the construction of modern meat and dairy and other processing facilities, exploration and extraction of mineral resources, and the implementation of joint infrastructure projects. The humanitarian sphere offers numerous opportunities for cooperation – science, culture, education, and tourism. Belarusian healthcare organisations can provide the highest level of medical assistance to your citizens. We can also assist with personnel, providing doctors to train your citizens in healthcare, education, and other humanitarian fields. Our achievements in healthcare are well-known to you," the Head of State listed the promising areas of cooperation.

Alexander Lukashenko emphasised that the interest of Belarus and Equatorial Guinea in each other is immense. "The current global situation necessitates more active interaction. I have already told my colleague and friend that Equatorial Guinea, a relatively small but resource-rich state, will not be left in peace by anyone. The President agreed with me," he said.

The Belarusian leader noted in this regard that in the modern world, one must be strong to preserve the country and protect its interests. Cooperation with Belarus can be beneficial in this regard.

On the Key Link for Business Relations and the Joint Commission

Alexander Lukashenko noted that the joint work of business circles and national chambers of commerce and industry should become a key link in the process of building and forming new sustainable business relations.

A significant step for the development of comprehensive cooperation following the visit was the establishment of a Joint Commission. Its co-chairs are the heads of the foreign ministries. The President proposed instructing to hold the first meeting of the commission as soon as possible and to define specific plans and projects, including based on the agreements reached. "We are open to dialogue on all issues of interest to you, ready for a substantive discussion of any areas of interaction and to fill them with real practical content," the Belarusian leader assured.

On Plans for 100 Million

"We expect that through joint efforts, we will achieve a steady growth in trade turnover between our countries. We will strive to exceed $100 million (in trade turnover) by 2030," the head of the Belarusian state said following the negotiations.

Following negotiations held in the presence of the leaders of the two countries, a number of international documents were signed. Among them are the intergovernmental framework agreement on economic, trade, cultural, scientific and technical cooperation, and the agreement on visa-free travel for holders of diplomatic and service passports. Agreements on cooperation in the field of healthcare and education were also signed, as well as a memorandum of understanding between the relevant departments of the two countries on cooperation in agriculture. In addition, an agreement was concluded between the Ministry of Culture of Belarus and the Ministry of Culture, Handicrafts and Tourism of Equatorial Guinea.

"A good foundation for the future has been laid today," the head of the Belarusian state assessed the work done. "We have identified promising areas and directions for the development of partnership. We have agreed on practical steps for the implementation of the reached agreements, agreed on exchanges of visits, outlined the foundations of the treaty and legal framework, and established a joint commission for economic cooperation."

Alexander Lukashenko addressed the participants of the signing ceremony, urging them not to delay the implementation of the reached agreements. He is confident that in a short time, the parties will conclude new contracts and add millions of dollars to their relationship portfolio.

"I am confident that with your personal support, Belarus and Equatorial Guinea will soon make progress in supplying equipment, modernizing agriculture, and ensuring food security. We are ready to work with you in this regard. Moreover, we are not only offering you our goods and are ready to buy your goods. We need to cooperate, to create joint ventures in your country and ours that will produce these goods. We need to go deeper. We are ready for this. We are ready to train your specialists who will work in enterprises with advanced technologies in Equatorial Guinea," the head of state addressed the President of Equatorial Guinea.

It is also planned to expand partnership in the petrochemical and mining sectors, in education and training, medicine, and the development of human connections.

A TERRIFYING FORCE. Who became the new "Miss Belarus" and what the President gifted the girls

The final of the XIII National Beauty Contest "Miss Belarus - 2023" was held at the Palace of Sports in the capital on the evening of September 8. 24 girls competed for the title. Thousands of people came to watch the spectacular event and, of course, to support the contenders for the crown from different regions of the country. The Head of State, Alexander Lukashenko, was among the spectators in the stands.

Many are familiar with the winged expression that beauty is a terrible force. And it is all the more powerful when external beauty is organically complemented by education, talent, impeccable taste and style, politeness, care for others, and other qualities that people value in each other. The jury of the competition sought such an ideal among the contenders for the crown.

The title of Miss Belarus 2023 was won by Eleonora Kachalovskaya. The girl is 23 years old, and she works as a manager at a modeling agency at the National School of Beauty. Her life motto is "Don't pass by." It was this motto that led Eleonora to find her best friend, a puppy named Tigr, whom she picked up from the street.

In an interview with BELTA, the most beautiful woman in the country shared a few facts about herself. She loves wildflowers the most, but the main thing is that the flowers are given from the heart. She enjoys hockey and football, and cycling. Eleonora Kachalovskaya also admitted that she is a coffee lover. Her favorite day of the week is Monday, and her favorite dish is traditional Belarusian draniki.

For winning the competition, Eleonora Kachalovskaya received a cash prize, a piece of jewelry, a Geely car, and an unexpected gift from the Ministry of Information – a collection of works by Yanka Kupala. The fact is that during the final, the girls answered questions from famous Belarusian women. An actress from the Yanka Kupala Theatre asked Eleonora who the author of the play "Paulinka" was. However, the girl, flustered by nervousness, could not answer.

"I am now feeling sad and upset that I could not answer such a simple question. I admit honestly: I am ashamed," said Eleonora after receiving the coveted title. The new Miss Belarus promised to definitely read the play and attend a performance of it at the Kupala Theatre.

She also said that she feels immense gratitude to her country and addressed words of appreciation personally to the Head of the Belarusian State: "Alexander Grigoryevich, thank you for giving ordinary girls like me the opportunity to find themselves in this fairy tale." Eleonora Kachalovskaya assured that she would proudly and honestly carry the title for the next two years.

A pleasant addition to the celebration for all contest participants was a special gift from the President – evening dresses, which they wore on stage.

 

Source: belta.by