17 April, Minsk /BELTA/. President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko received a report from the Chairman of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee Alexander Kosinets on April 17, BELTA was informed by the press service of the Belarusian leader. The Governor informed about the socio-economic development of the Vitebsk region for the first quarter and the progress of spring field work. According to Alexander Kosinets, almost all forecast targets have been met. In particular, the gross regional product growth rate reached 121% compared to the same period last year, and the physical volume index of production output was 136%. Exports of communal property enterprises, excluding oil and oil products, increased 6-fold in January-February, and the annual target for this indicator has already been met. The foreign trade balance for the first quarter is positive and is preliminarily estimated at $687 million, with an annual target of $290 million. The Head of State positively assessed the pace of socio-economic development of the region in the first quarter, demanded not to reduce it in the second quarter, and to reach an average salary in the region equivalent to about $400 by June. The President emphasized the need to intensify the work of the agro-industrial complex, taking into account weather conditions, and to complete spring field work and sowing of spring crops in the region by May 8. The meeting also discussed the new concept for the development of Polotsk, in particular, the creation of a cultural and historical center and tourist infrastructure around the Monastery of St. Euphrosyne and the St. Sophia Cathedral. The territories adjacent to these main spiritual shrines of Belarus should be completely transformed. According to the Governor, who presented the project, its total cost is estimated at Br2 trillion. It is planned to attract investor funds for its implementation. As Alexander Kosinets explained, the project envisages the reconstruction of many urban facilities, the construction of hotels, exhibition centers, the restoration of the trail of St. Euphrosyne along the Polota River, which will become navigable, the equipping of recreation areas, and the construction of restaurants and cafes. Thus, it is planned to do everything necessary to make Polotsk a major historical and cultural center that will be attractive to tourists. According to the Governor, the project is planned to be completed in 2015. The Head of State approved the proposed concept and instructed to prepare a draft of the relevant decree.-0-