BELARUS #3/2010 by BELARUS Magazine

No.3 (918), 2010

BELARUS Беларусь. Belarus

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Olympic medal’s face

Politics, Economy, Culture

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SaSHeS SiLK Men’S WoVen By nS Were BeLaruSia ion HiT a True faSH During in franCe of THe reign ; LuDoViC XV re We THere To aT TeMpTS aLL faKe THeM pe. oVer euro nS CoLLeC Tio Began in THe LaTe y 19TH CenTur

Made in Slutsk pp. 40 — 41

pp. 36 — 37

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Contents

Беларусь.Belarus Monthly magazine No. 3 (918), 2010 Published since 1930 State Registration Certificate of mass medium No.8 dated March 2nd, 2009, issued by the Ministry of Information of the Republic of Belarus

4 38

Italian business in Belarus brings friendship and co-operation

Founders: The Information Ministry of the Republic of Belarus “SB” newspaper editorial office Belvnesheconombank

Lucky fate of Masako Tatsumi

Editor: Viktor Kharkov

32 Chasing luck Belarusian forests are gaining

popularity among foreign hunters, with about 4,000 visiting last year

Islands in ocean of books

Space for partnership Spain’s Presiden-

Ambitious but realizable goal

Energy of life The time shall soon come

cy of the EU, as viewed from Minsk

when oil, coal and gas resources are depleted. This knowledge is pushing us to return to our own ‘origins’ and promote alternative energy use

Magic of ancient walls Ancient architectural sites in small Belarusian towns attract tourists

36 Atlantis at mouth of Disna River Small-

est town in the country has lived wonderful life for a thousand years, half way along the ancient ‘from the Varangians to the Greeks’ route

Major projects of the Bolshoi Theatre

Tatiana’s day The Music Room programmes

describe Tatiana Starchenko as having ‘the talent of a pianist-performer and the talent of an interlocutor in wonderful concorde’.

Executive Secretary: Valentina Zhdanovich

Design and Layout by Vadim Kondrashov, Georgiy Shablyuk, Aloizas Yunevich Беларусь.Belarus is published in Belarusian, English, Spanish and Polish. Distributed in 50 countries of the world. Final responsibility for factual accuracy or interpretation rests with the authors of the publications. Should any article of Беларусь.Belarus be used, the reference to the magazine is obligatory. The magazine does not bear responsibility for the contents of advertisements.

Publisher: “SB” editorial office

Verses in taxi Poet Yuri Borovitsky finds readers in unexpected places

This magazine has been printed at “Belarusian House of Press” Publishing Office” UE.

Fine young man Judo master Mikhail Baranov

79 Nezavisimosti Ave., Minsk, Belarus, 220013

to represent Belarus at Mister World pageant

Order No.687 Total circulation — 2051 copies (including 620 in English).

forced to leave their homes not of their own choice but from necessity — as a result of military conflict, persecution, intolerance or violence

Write us to the address: 11 Kiselyov Str., Minsk, Belarus, 220029. Tel.: +375 (17) 290-62-24, 290-66-45. Tel./Fax: +375 (17) 290-68-31.

Weather change is not always bad

www.belarus-magazine.by E-mail: mail@belarus-magazine.by

Two captains Alexander Alexeev and

No aliens among ours Refugees are

Oleg Lukashevich find Belarus’ true treasures and unveil previously undiscovered secrets of their homeland

29 Peace and tolerance are characteristic features

Charm enhancing mastership

Subscription index in Belpochta catalogue — 74977 For future foreign subscribers for ‘Belarus’ magazine, apply to ‘MK-Periodica’ agency. E-mail: info@periodicals.ru Telephone in Minsk: +375 (17) 227-09-10.

2010 беларусь.belarus

editor’s note

Hand-made image of fate Panorama

 Old and new addresses

 Efficient optimisation

In 2009, Belarus traded with 181 countries

Belarusian Tsentr Scientific and Production Association to manufacture industrial robots

 Venue for real projects

Eleven countries participate in International Investment Forum in Vitebsk

Other countries 26% nterest in the Vitebsk region’s investNetherlands 7.8% ment proposals has been evident, Russia 47% with business circles and diploGermany 6.4% matic missions of Poland, Bulgaria, Ukraine 6% Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Latvia 3.6% Latvia, Russia and other countries Poland 3.2% making enquiries. “Participation in the forum has enabled businessmen to gain acquaintance with promising projects in by 36.4 percent (on 2008) to reach $6.714bn the Dvina River region, learning more (31.5 percent of the republic’s exports). about conditions of business and the Export supplies to the Netherlands fell peculiarities of the region. This is an by 31.9 percent, to $3.68bn. The conseimportant component for the success quences of the global crisis have affected of any investment project,” stresses the Belarus’ trade with many countries. Deputy Chairman of the Vitebsk Regional Last year, Belarusian exports to Ukraine Executive Committee, Oleg Matskevich. totalled $1.693bn (down 39.1 percent The event gathered 150 projects, on 2008) while those to Latvia stood at worth over $650m, with transport-and- $1.659bn (down 22.5 percent). Exports to logistical systems, roadside and hotel Lithuania amounted to $370.8m (down services, tourism infrastructure and the 40.1 percent) and exports to Poland modernisation of the meat and milk totalled $823.4m (down 54.2 percent). industries taking priority. At the same time, positive trends During the forum, businessmen have been observed. Exports to Germany were able to familiarise themselves rose by 21.5 percent (to reach $986.9m) with Vitebsk region companies and see while those to India grew by 55.5 percent potential project sites. ($487.8m).

LifE

Lucky fate of Masako Tatsumi By Olga Bogacheva

Belarus has Been home to Japanese masako for the past 15 years

беларусь.belarus 2010

How much funding has the UNHCR Office in Belarus given to projects since it began operations? We’v e i nj e c t e d $ 6 . 5 m s i n c e 1995, allocated to direct receivers of our assistance and used as technical assistance for our governmental partners. It’s not a huge sum in absolute figures but I personally believe that it has been spent wisely. Where is new financing being directed? Two international technical assistance projects are being realised at the moment. The first is complex and aims to provide technical assistance to the Belarusian Government in strengthening and improving its asylum system. A block of issues regards legislation, including the development and adoption of normative legal acts and offering expertise to check compliance with international standards (for agreements that Belarus has already joined or is considering joining). In addition, the definition of refugee status needs to be improved and the provision of translators for those seeking asylum must be carefully considered. Funding is being allocated to educate the public on problems facing refugees and to inform refugees of the help available to them. Temporary accommodation used to house those awaiting asylum is being upgraded; the two centres operational in Belarus — in Gomel and Vitebsk — can each sleep fifty people. A further two centres for short-term stay are operational at Minsk National Airport and in Brest. The second project of international technical assistance — ‘Local Integration of Refugees in Belarus, Ukraine and Moldova’ — is regional. As regards Belarus, the focus is on solving accommodation problems for refugees, while providing employment and vocational training. Special attention is reserved for refugees’ children. In particular, Afghan children are being given lessons in Afghani language and culture at three Minsk schools — with support from the Education Ministry. It’s important

ince 1997, B elarus has welcomed over 3,000 asylum seekers. Most are from Afghanistan, followed by those from Georgia, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Ethiopia and Palestine. Sholeh Safavi, a representative of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees in Belarus, shares her views on how the national asylum system meets modern realities. T he Unite d Nat i on s Hig h Commissioner for Refugees Office opened in Belarus in September 1995, providing assistance to the Government in setting up a system of asylum meeting international standards. Why has it taken so long to sign an agreement? The situation is also typical in other Exhibitions countries with UNHCR offices. It’s vital to establish good contacts with the host “I translated some songs into Russian, country and its structures, creating an Sholeh Safavi, a representative of the Office of the then Ales Kamotsky translated themtrust into and part- UN High Commissioner for Refugees in Belarus atmosphere of mutual Belarusian,nership ” Masako explains. “Dmitry on legal before an agreement Voityushkevich thesigned. arrangement statusmade can be As the Russian enable us to engage in more activity, and we donated discs to ‘everything musical schools proverb says, has its season’. especially at an official level, making and libraries. We” believe the time has come. contacts with offices of foreign states Additionally, the Information What does this agreement envisage accredited in Belarus. Centre organises weekly for those and when willclasses it be signed? I hope the agreement will be signed wanting to learn Japanese; people of all It’s ready for signing now, outlining in the first half of 2010. The Belarusian ages attend. From time to time, Masako the legal status of the United Nations Government has announced its desire to organises Japanese style festivities, High Commissioner for Refugees see the document signed by the UNHCR inviting pupils from various schools. Office in Belarus — which is currently and the ceremony is to take place in During these meetings, she shows the operating under the aegis of the UN Minsk. I’m optimistic about the future children aspects of Japanese culture, Representation. The document will — as conditions are likely to be met. such as the ancient tea ceremony. Masako Tatsumi is satisfied with her life. If she could turn back time, she wouldn’t change anything. She is involved in her favourite occupation, which brings her pleasure and joy. She has a wonderful husband and little Yue is an enduring delight. In her free time, Major contemporary painting exhibition Masako cooks Japanese dishes for her taking place countrywide family and goes to church. “After marrying, I became Christian. his year, we plan to organise I’m delighted with Belarusian Belarus’ largest ever pictorial churches and their beauty. art exhibition for modern fine arts,” When my parents or friends explains Belarus’ Culture Minister, visit me, I always bring them Pavel L atushko. Speaking at the to the church.” Belarus has National Art Museum, he noted become a second home for that the project will span October Masako Tatsumi and she and November, starting at Minsk’s is confident that this is the National Art Museum, Palace of Arts best life she could choose and Modern Fine Arts Museum before for herself. touring countrywide. The organisers By Tatiana Danilushkina also invite every private art gallery in the capital to join the event. Leading museums in regional centres are being approached, Mr. Latushko tells us. “The idea is that pictures by Vitebsk artists travel to Brest and then to Gomel. Such exchange events will last two months, enabling us to view and understand Belarus’ modern pictorial art.” If the project is a success, in early 2011, a comprehensive exhibition will be organised at the National Art Museum. Moreover, a similar republican exhibition of Belarus’ contemporary monumental arts is scheduled business for next year.

2010

Talents and fans

Nobody wanted to make friends with us, as representing the peak of love between so there was no language practice,” she her parents’ hearts: a big and courageous recollects sadly. “Moreover, the living Belarusian heart and a small, delicate conditions were awful!” Japanese heart… Masako returned to Japan but her In 1996, Masako, being curious and goal remained and, in 1995, she enrolled used to taking the initiative, began to as a student at the Belarusian State teach Japanese at the BSU’s Department University’s courses for foreigners. At for International Relations. Her course that time, she was the only Japanese was very popular but she sometimes student at any Belarusian higher educa- lacked enough original Japanese literational establishment — unlike the ture. Masako-san didn’t lose heart; she Chinese, who come in large numbers. wrote to a Japanese newspaper, asking “Belarus impressed me, being clean for their help in sending books and and beautiful. Meanwhile, the people dictionaries. were friendly,” she recollects. “Soon, “We’d been working thorI acquired acquaintances and, even, oughly on literature, but I felt I friends.” Petite framed and exotically could do more. I wanted beautiful, Masako also conquered the Belarusians to learn heart of Stepan Bugaichuk, of Belarus. more about my Their wedding followed Belarusian tradi- homeland and its tions, with the bride’s parents arriving culture,” Masako from her remote homeland. They were e x p l a i n s . S h e pleased with their daughter’s choice dreamt of setting and, several years later, a daughter was up an Information born, called Yue — unusual for Belarus. Centre of Japanese In Japanese ‘yu’ means ‘a person who Culture and, in 1999, unites Japan and Belarus’ and ‘e’ stands finally felt ready. On for ‘impetus, activity and accumulation September 9th, when Economy business trends of life experience’. Little Yue became a C h r y s ant h e mu m symbol of unity of both cultures as well Day is celebrated

“T

Italian business in Belarus brings friendship and co-operation

беларусь.belarus

eeing off our sportsmen a Junior under not a defector, looking for a counor many years, ItalyWorld has Championship Italy for its work in the was recuperation traditions. Genoa, Florence, Venetia, as they flew to Vancouver, the Belarusian the first time, in try where it wasLombardia easier to gain been welcoming children flag offor Belarusian children. andentry other regions have we hoped that some would the individual event.Our It was this same the maintoteam. Rather, thisknown multi-for their family from Chernobyl-affected children are no to strangers always been return home with regions medals, for event, five years Italian later, which brought champion tournaments andfrom one generarecuperafamilies — families which, of in junior traditions, passed on as they did in Salt Lake City, her first Olympic medal. in economy. prize holder tion. Up toDarya 3m Italians fact, drive theBack Italian Italy’s at the tion European to the next.Junior Recently, representashe could dreamlies of such Turin and Nagano. would hardly Olympic Gamestives had of different plans. Italian brands areWe involved in the 2005, process; on only strength in itsvicsmall and mediummany famous dare assume thatthe three Belarusians missed five targets out of five “Russian were constantly Apennines, abouttory. 300She charisized businesses, built upon family coaches have visited Minsk. would be successful. the during the third shooting round (a approaching me, saying, “Dashya, come tableFor organisations are operational. next four years, they will dioptre fell off her rifle) and, as back, we’ll offer you a high salary; all Humanitarian associations embrace Italy’s Deputy Minister for Economic Development, Adolfo Urso: embody victory, inscribing a result, took 40th ranking. your problems will be solved.” Why do every Italian region, bringing ever Belarus forever in world long relations I need their I want to compete strengthening ties of solidarity and The Russians Goodhad trading havemoney? been established between Belarus sports history. Let’s recall to Italy, persuade for reaching Belarus.” about On 1st$1bn December partnership. As a result, Italy is seen as triedand withher turnover a year. 2006, These are not bad those glorious moments. theirbut national Domracheva in the World a close and reliable partner of Belarus to join figures there is still far to go; debuted Belarus and Italy have far greater Cup as aBusinessmen Belarusian arriving in — a wonderful foundation for further potential and are striving for larger figures. team member, having mutually beneficial collaboration. Minsk can aid co-operation between Belarus and Italy. come second among InterestIng facts : On welcoming the large Italian Belarus boasts a stable social-economic situation, allowing us to f i v e BThe e l a rcountry u s i a n is of signifidelegation to the forum, Belarus’ make long-term forecasts for co-operation.  Three years before the Domrachev family sportswomen. 3rd place. Deputy Foreign Minister, Valer y cant interest to Italian companies. We think Belarus could be an ideal She was expected moved to Russian Nyagan, a Belarusian family Voronetsky, first expressed great country, taking into consideration the expansion of the European darya living there, originally from Gomel, bore a to shoot to success gratitude to the Italian Government Union (where the orientation has shifted). domracheva , daughter, Maria. She was also destined to stir but her path to the and the non-governmental sector of bIathlon the sporting world, becoming a tennis star. first Cup award — However, one year before the Domrachevs settled Östersund 2009 — age: 23 in Siberia, the Sharapov family moved to Sochi… was rather crooked. беларусь.belarus 2010 Food poisoning on the threshold of the try to forbiathlon team, 2007/2008 season messed up the entire get those w h e n s h e training process of this team leader. inciwas living Meanwhile, German Magdalena Neudents in Oberhof; in Siberia ner — a colleague of the same age the y are f unny, ( c o a c h e d whose name is constantly linked to the indeed. Someb y A l b e r t Belarusian rising star — kept winning times, in biathlon, Mu s i n a n d honours. “I was trying to stay calm as you start shooting Victor Post- Neuner won,” explains Darya. “At least, someone else’s tarnikov). Now I was pretending to. To be honest, from get or take the wrong they under- time to time, I felt bad because I’m post. I managed to s t o o d t h at ambitious. Even the knowledge that become a ‘hero’, makDarya my physical state was beyond my coning two errors two trol didn’t help.” years in a row. This The 2008/2009 season saw her is in the past now; it in the top ten regularly. The World may have even had a Championship of 2008 gave her first positive impact on me!” medal as a mixed relay race member. The D ar y a D om r a che v a turning point of her career took place one was perhaps the only peryear later in Swedish Östersund. Darya son expected to bring home will also remember forever the previous a Vancouver medal. Hopes qualification round in Oberhof. The were pinned on her from the amusing accident happened during moment of her return to native the mass start, she was first to arrive at Minsk. In 2005, the biathlete the shooting area and took a standing — born in the Belarusian capiposition, instead of prone. She recalls, tal, but living in Siberian Nya“Everybody wanted to encourage me gan for 15 years — took part in and I arrived like a wind-up toy.”

Belarus’ Deputy Foreign Minister, Valery Voronetsky:

The signing of an agreement on the establishment of an Italian industrial area in the Brest region should inspire development of the Brest region and the presence of Italian business in Belarus. An Italian industrial area is to be created in the Brest region — with Italian capital, Italian banks and Italian enterprises. I think basic investors will soon be chosen, with investment projects defined. I hope we’ll launch the project this year or next. Recently, economic (commercial and financial) co-operation between Belarus and Italy has gained momentum. Lukashenko and the Italian Prime Minister. The arrival of an Italian delegation in Minsk signals that Mr. Berlusconi’s visit is yielding fruit.” The forum gathered representatives of about 70 Italian companies, as well as those from the Italian Institute for Foreign Trade, SIMEST, the Institute

for Export Credit Insurance Services and the Agency for International Development and Economic Cooperation. Representatives of banking, logistical, insurance and construction associations also attended. “ The presence of these ver y important institutions is a vital sign for

Vadim KondrashoV

Our winter was dominated by the Olympics, which brought much excitement from Canada’s Vancouver. Our athletes returned with three medals — the best result in the history of sovereign Belarus at the Winter Games. Olympic Medal’s Face tells us about these Belarusian Olympic prize winners. We look at the world and see what is most important to us. Spain has taken over the EU Presidency — an important fact in the context of geopolitics. We consider this circumstance f rom Minsk’s vie wp oint, analysing our bilateral relations with беларусь.belarus

Belarus-Italian forum in Minsk received a large participating audience

Italy’s Deputy Minister for Economic Development, Adolfo Urso, did not hide his ambitious plans. “Our task is to double our investments into Belarus and gain a partnership foothold,” he told the forum. His words are confirmed by action: Belarus and Italy have signed an agreement to set up an Italian industrial area in the Brest region. Several other concrete deals have been announced — all concluded during the forum. However, major work still lies ahead. “The Belarusian-Italian Forum has been the result of a visit by Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi to our country,” stresses Vladimir Ulakhovich, Director of the Centre for International Studies. “Top level meetings and good words can bring no further action but we’ve seen concrete developments from the meeting between President

“I

2010

беларусь.belarus

trends EconomyE

By Yekaterina Nechaeva

2010

InternatIonal co-operatIon — especIally regardIng trade — Is usually based on mutual Interest and pragmatIsm. the same could be saId of the belarusIanItalIan economIc forum, recently held In mInsk. It was clearly an IndIcatIon of the progress made In our mutual relatIons, wIth belarusIan-ItalIan tIes characterIsed by busIness Interest alongsIde warmth, trust, gratItude and kInd-heartedness… VancouVer-2010

The recenTly ended Olympic Games have been The mOsT successful in The hisTOry Of belarusian spOrTs

беларусь.belarus 2010

Refugees aRe foRced to leave theiR homes not of theiR own choice but fRom necessity — as a Result of militaRy conflict, peRsecution, intoleRance oR violence. they flee foR theiR lives, tRying to pRotect themselves and theiR childRen, hoping to gain fReedom

AloizAs Yunevich

verything began with fairytales. As a child, Masako read a book of Slavonic stories and was completely enthralled. The fairytales were interesting and unusual, unlike any told by her mother. So, her journey to Belarus began. Masako entered Keio University (from her native Kyoto), studying Slavonic culture and history, while taking Russian language courses. In 1992, her sacred dream finally came true and she took a holiday to Russia, Belarus and Ukraine — travelling for a month. She returned full of wonderful impressions and a desire had been kindled to gain closer acquaintance with the culture, history and language of these states. Masako was disappointed by her first trip to Vladivostok’s school for foreigners, at the Far Eastern University. “Local residents treated us, foreigners, badly.

VancouVer-2010

By Milena Anufriyenok

беларусь.belarus 2010

he State Tsentr Scientific and Production Association at the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus plans to produce robots for the automobile industry. Tsentr specialists are currently studying opportunities for producing robots for tractor building. “We plan to start the manufacture of robots primarily for cutting and, maybe, for metal-welding,” Alexander Pozharsky, the Head of the Department for Managerial Systems, tells us. “Everything will depend on the needs of domestic manufacturers in robotics, which we are studying at present.” Some components will be purchased from abroad, with the remainder manufactured domestically. Industrial robots are used in many industrial spheres worldwide, but primarily in car manufacture — for stamping and welding, paint-spraying and assembling. Large automated factories use robots at every stage: from material unloading to the manufacture of ready-made goods. Such production facilities are completely automated, able to work day-andnight without interruption. People are employed to control the process and manage the robots via computers. The launch of robots in manufacturing brings optimal use of capacity while reducing in enhancing Japan, theprofitability. Information Centre of costs and Japanese Culture opened in Minsk. Tsentr Scientific and Production Masako has beenfocuses performing Association primarily on charity for equipment, 11 years now, creatingworks industrial relyingsupported on by the Japanese The Chiro Foundation centrifugal technologies. enterprise sponsors from Belarus and closelyalongside co-operates with organisations Japan.Ukraine She brings in medicine and from Russia, and Kazakhstan, medical children’s developing andequipment producingfor mining and clinics and hospitals. Her desire to promote construction industry equipment for Japanese culture has been successful, these countries. Centrifugal grinding with hundreds of Japanese books for mills produced in Belarus account for children translated into Belarusian and around 70 percent of the total volume of donated to libraries. Several musical marble powder produced in Russia. projects have been jointly implemented By Olga Belyavskaya with Belarusian musicians — such as the Moon and Sun project, which features Japanese folk songs sung in Belarusian.

Tolerance

No aliens among ours

Belta

ear readers, I hope that when you receive this issue of the magazine, spring will be vividly demonstrating its full powers. I hesitate to assert that the weather will be warm, but spring will be in full swing. We’ve endured a harsh winter but, of course, each season has its turn; we seem to be over the worst! Spring has a woman’s face, Olympic as International medal’s face Wo m e n’s D a y — celebrated on Marc h 8 t h — traditionally reminds us. The holiday celebrates its 100th birthday this year; however, no special attention is being given to this fact in Belarus. March 8th is a holiday from the heart; few men bother to keep its ‘genealogy’ in mind. We have a long-standing, undoubted tradition of presenting bouquets on this day. Even if trends changed, with some feminist organisation from Germany (perhaps the homeland of this tradition) advocating its abolition, we’d preserve it. This holiday reflects our natural inclination and will continue to exist as long as we love and respect women.

ccording to the National Statistical Committee, last year, Belarusian goods were supplied to 141 nations of the world, while goods from 168 countries were imported. The geography of Belarusian foreign supplies has expanded, compared to early 2009. Last January, Belarus traded with only 127 countries: exporting to 86 states and importing from 118. In 2009, Belarus’ major trade partners were Russia (accounting for 47 percent of total turnover), the Netherlands (7.8 percent), Germany (6.4 percent), Ukraine (6 percent), Latvia (3.6 percent), Poland (3.2 percent), China (2.5 percent), the UK (2.1 percent) and Italy and India. Last year, supplies of Belarusian goods to Russia fell

Spain — now entrusted to guide our entire European conglomerate — in Space for Partnership. Of course, the world also scrutinises us, choosing when to form beneficial contacts. International economic ties primarily rely on mutual pragmatism, as proven by the Belarusian-Italian Economic Forum, held recently in Minsk. Italian Business in Belarus Brings Friendship and Cooperation looks at Belarus and Italy as trade partners, showing that today’s ties are characterised by business interests and great human warmth, trust and gratitude. A sociological poll has revealed that Belarusians are noteworthy for their tolerance and calm nature. This probably influences those who choose Belarus as their place of residence. Ms. Sholeh Safavi, the Head of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Office in Belarus, describes the life of refugees in our country in No Aliens among Ours. Refugees are obliged to flee leave their homeland due to war, persecution, intolerance and violence. They try to save their own lives and ensure safety for themselves and their children while acquiring freedom. Meanwhile, Japanese Masako Tatsumi arrived in Belarus to study and has remained for the past fifteen years. She has family, friends and a life here, as explored vividly in our Lucky Fate of Masako Tatsumi. Undoubtedly, everyone has their own destiny; some are more fortunate than others. We’re glad if people find happiness in our hospitable land.

2010

беларусь.belarus

BY Viktor Kharkov, magazine editor Беларусь. Belarus

panorama  Programme impresses greatly with scales Investments into agriculture could rise considerably in coming years

 Much in common on borders Grodno hosts international seminar — organised within framework of European Commission programme

aking part in the seminar were representatives of the border, geodesic and cartographic agencies and departments of Belarus, the UK, France, Finland, Germany, Slovakia and Lithuania. They discussed a range of issues relating to demarcation of land and river borders in the 21st century. Alexander Arkhipov, Head of the State Border Delimitation and Demarcation Department at Belarus’ State Border Committee, noted that the Belarusian border service can benefit from the experience accumulated by its counterparts in France, Germany and the UK. “Belarus has its experience of demarcation of state borders while other European countries have their own. France and the UK have demarcated a third of the world’s borders alone. We’d like to share experience and knowledge, improving our understanding and ensuring that we operate within the framework of international law,” Mr. Arkhipov said. Participants also discussed today’s trends in demarcation and border management, alongside the activity of integrated boundary committees. FrenchItalian experience of re-demarcation was debated, as well as inspection problems on the Finnish-Russian border. They also visited border checkpoints supervised by the Grodno border authorities.

he NAS has already prepared a draft concept, aiming to develop the agroindustrial complex over the next five years. They note that agrarians will be shown more efficient methods of management, with private-and-state partnership and innovation encouraged, while export-oriented facilities will come under focus. According to Mr. Myasnikovich, it’s important to encourage the practical application of scientific innovations. Major cattle-breeding farms are planned, with the latest technologies implemented and the structure of crop-growing being updated.

 Intellectual research Today, there’s no need to thumb through volumes of publications to find a particular legal document. It’s enough to have access to a specialised legal and reference system; these technologies have been working rather successfully in Belarus

The Chairman of the National Academy of Sciences’ Presidium reports that the programme aims to bring a positive balance of foreign trade in agricultural products, worth $1bn. Moreover, the output of agricultural production should rise: grain by at least 10m tonnes per year over the nearest five years, milk by 7.5-8.5m tonnes and meat by 1.52m tonnes. Additionally, the net profit margin of ready-made goods should increase by 25-30 percent on average, with a positive foreign trade balance ensured for goods of agricultural origin. The draft programme envisages the application of economic mechanisms to regulate agro-industrial manufacture and the agrarian market, while relying on international principles and rules.

pecialists have calculated that around 300 legal acts are adopted in Belarus each month. It commonly takes between 20 minutes and 2 hours to find necessary documents without the new reference system, which can add up to around 500 hours annually. Clearly, this time can b e sp ent more productively. Six months ago, Expertcentre presented a new version of its ‘Expert’ information and legal system to Belarusian organisations. This was immediately called a revolutionary step for the domestic market of reference and legal systems. For the first time, the product boasts search algorithms similar to those used by such giants as Yandex and Google. Of course, it would be nice if legal acts were written in understandable language; the letter of the law is usually dry, with documents subject to interpretation. This makes analysis vital. The ‘Expert’ system enables us to locate analytical articles, giving paragraph-byparagraph commentaries, consultations and explanations (including official) on any topic: taxation, employment law, accounting, salaries, civil rights, inspections and more.

2010 беларусь.belarus

Economy business trends

Italian business in Belarus brings friendship and co-operation

or many years, Italy has been welcoming children from Chernobyl-affected regions for recuperation. Up to 3m Italians are involved in the process; on the Apennines, about 300 charitable organisations are operational. Humanitarian associations embrace every Italian region, bringing ever strengthening ties of solidarity and partnership. As a result, Italy is seen as a close and reliable partner of Belarus — a wonderful foundation for further mutually beneficial collaboration. On welcoming the large Italian delegation to the forum, Belarus’ Deputy Foreign Minister, Valer y Voronetsky, first expressed great gratitude to the Italian Government and the non-governmental sector of

беларусь.belarus 2010

Belta

International co-operation — especially regarding trade — is usually based on mutual interest and pragmatism. The same could be said of the BelarusianItalian Economic Forum, recently held in Minsk. It was clearly an indication of the progress made in our mutual relations, with Belarusian-Italian ties characterised by business interest alongside warmth, trust, gratitude and kind-heartedness…

Italy for its work in the recuperation of Belarusian children. Our children are no strangers to Italian families — families which, in fact, drive the Italian economy. Italy’s strength lies in its small and mediumsized businesses, built upon family

traditions. Genoa, Florence, Venetia, Lombardia and other regions have always been known for their family traditions, passed on from one generation to the next. Recently, representatives of many famous Italian brands have visited Minsk.

Italy’s Deputy Minister for Economic Development, Adolfo Urso: Good trading relations have been established between Belarus and Italy, with turnover reaching about $1bn a year. These are not bad figures but there is still far to go; Belarus and Italy have far greater potential and are striving for larger figures. Businessmen arriving in Minsk can aid co-operation between Belarus and Italy. Belarus boasts a stable social-economic situation, allowing us to make long-term forecasts for co-operation. The country is of significant interest to Italian companies. We think Belarus could be an ideal country, taking into consideration the expansion of the European Union (where the orientation has shifted).

business trends Economye

Belarus-Italian forum in Minsk received a large participating audience

Belarus’ Deputy Foreign Minister, Valery Voronetsky: The signing of an agreement on the establishment of an Italian industrial area in the Brest region should inspire development of the Brest region and the presence of Italian business in Belarus. An Italian industrial area is to be created in the Brest region — with Italian capital, Italian banks and Italian enterprises. I think basic investors will soon be chosen, with investment projects defined. I hope we’ll launch the project this year or next. Recently, economic (commercial and financial) co-operation between Belarus and Italy has gained momentum. Lukashenko and the Italian Prime Minister. The arrival of an Italian delegation in Minsk signals that Mr. Berlusconi’s visit is yielding fruit.” The forum gathered representatives of about 70 Italian companies, as well as those from the Italian Institute for Foreign Trade, SIMEST, the Institute

2010 беларусь.belarus

Economy business trends us,” continues Mr. Ulakhovich. “In Italy, regional and national associations receive financial support for the promotion of Italian business abroad, so play a key role. Their participation testifies to the serious position taken by the state.” According to Mr. Voronetsky, Italian partners are showing huge interest in Belarus as a gateway to co-operation between the West and the East. Much attention is being given to the country’s transit potential and interest in the credit sphere and in the setting up of Italian ventures is also evident. Mr. Urso confirms that agreements relating to economic collaboration between Belarus and Italy are finding practical realisation. The republic could soon see great activity, enjoying co-operation with Italy in several branches. The Ambassador of Belarus to Italy, Yevgeny Shestakov, has told journalists that container transportation from Brest

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Italy’s Deputy Minister for Economic Development Adolfo Urso (left), President of the Italian Institute for Foreign Trade Umberto Vattani (in the centre), Deputy Minister of Economic Affairs of Belarus Andrey Tur (right) had a lot to discuss

беларусь.belarus 2010

Belarus’ Prime Minister, Sergei Sidorsky: All proposals on the expansion of bilateral co-operation — which were previously discussed by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi — shall be implemented. The promotion of Italian products on the Belarusian market is more active than the promotion of Belarusian goods in Italy and we’d like to smooth our trade balance. to Siberia, Kazakhstan, the Far East, China and Korea is under scrutiny, with logistics being developed. Additionally, in early March, container cargo shipment between Italy and Belarusian Brest is to become operational. Belarus hopes to sign an agreement with Italy in the field of aerospace technologies. Meanwhile, an Italian company is currently engaged in establishing a joint venture in the field of chemical production — of great significance for the whole Eastern-European region. Two power stations, providing

heat, are planned by Italian investors in the Brest region — of trans-border significance. “The region’s energy system has access to those of Poland and the Baltic States. Plans are being drawn up,” notes Mr. Shestakov. No doubt, these significant projects will continue to be a talking point. The success of the recent forum, gathering hundreds of representatives of small and medium-sized businesses, indicates the ‘real relations of Belarus and Italy — based on the friendship and cooperation witnessed so far’, stresses Deputy Foreign Minister Valer y Voronetsky. Mr. Shestakov emphasises that direct flights between Minsk and major Italian cities should soon launch, bringing Rome and Milan even closer. By Nina Romanova

european context EGeopoliticsE

Space for partnership

diplomatic representative offices. In other states, this function (after reform) has been imposed on EU delegations — now called super-delegations.

Madrid realias

In 2010, the major task is to find ways out of the economic crisis — the greatest on the continent since WWII. Spain’s current Prime Minister, José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, has already Spain’s Presidency of the EU, as viewed from Minsk announced his priorities, although they’re evident. Speaking in the n January 1st, the EU chaired by a corresponding minister European Parliament, he proposed Presidenc y p ass e d from the Spanish Cabinet. The website a strict economic strategy for all EU to Spain. A month of the Spanish Presidency tells us that countries, with sanctions for those earlier, the Lisbon the Government needs to elaborate states who fail to adhere to it. He Treaty came into force, an agenda, conducting around 3,000 stresses that, if the EU continues introducing the post of the President sittings of various levels within the to develop as 27 separate national of the European Council and the High EU. The introduction of new positions systems, it will weaken its competiRepresentative for Foreign Affairs won’t deprive the chair of its work but tiveness on foreign markets. Joseph Daul, Chairman of the centreand Security Policy. These will chair there will be some competition between sessions of EU Heads of State and Brussels and Madrid. After the Treaty right European People’s Party (EPP EU Foreign Ministers, removing the of Lisbon came into operation, the EU Group), is sceptical about this initiafunction from the presiding country. received the right to give the European tive. He believes Spanish proposals will The latter will remain responsible for Commission’s 136 delegations abroad bring increased budget deficits while elaborating the EU’s common develop- full ambassadorial status. However, Spain itself is a proven violator. The ment strategy, so Madrid is to be the this right was only realised for 54 of budget deficit limit for the Eurozone them, including the EC’s delegation for is 3 percent of GDP (embracing the EU’s ‘capital’ for the next six months. Relations with Spain are increasing 16 countries using the euro); in Spain, in importance for Belarus, which has this stands at 11 been recently active in the western For the last 10 months the commodity direction. Although Madrid is one of percent. the most remote European capitals International turnover between Belarus and Spain Standard&Poor’s (from Minsk), permanent diplomade 146 mln US dollars basically for R ating Agenc y matic co-operation has been estabthe account of Spanish import. Such recently lowered lished between our cities. Last March, volume approximates the level of Belarus’ S p a i n’s c r e d i t Spain’s Foreign Minister, Miguel Ángel outlook from Moratinos, visited Belarus while, trade with important foreign partners… in December 2009, the Belarusian ‘stable’ to ‘negative’, concerned about Foreign Minister paid a return visit. t h e c o u n t r y ’s Ukraine and Belarus (headquartered in possible GDP growth. In 2009, Spain Distribution of portfolios and diplomats Kiev). The Euro Observer explains that fell into its first recession in over 15 The Treaty of Lisbon should ensure ‘the powers of delegations in former years. It needs to solve its crisis-related transparency for the EU’s management Spanish colonies in Latin America social problems, raising employment in future. At present, Belarus, like haven’t been expanded and nor have to combat a lack of spending power. other interested observers, is trying to those located in countries with which Unemployment has reached 10 percent understand the intricacies of the EU’s the EU is conducting summits during in the Eurozone — 15.7m; this is the Spain’s Presidency: Russia and the highest figure in the last 12 years and bureaucratic machine. Meetings of branch ministers USA’. Spain’s embassies in these states is almost 3m more than in the previous (those responsible for interior affairs will speak on behalf of the EU, co-ordi- year. Unemployment is Spain’s biggest or agriculture) will be, as before, nating the activities of other European challenge; last November, unemploy-

2010 беларусь.belarus

eGeopoliticse european context ment was up almost 20 percent in Spain, with 20 percent of its able-bodied jobseekers receiving social allowances. It could have been a record, were it were not for Latvia, where the situation is even worse. Against this background, we cannot but ask what Madrid can offer Europe. Will it have enough resources to run an intensive European policy? ‘If we’re at the tail end of 27 countries regarding economic success, how can the rest of Europe trust our Prime Minister?’ asks Spanish El Mundo. The EU is sending positive signals to the world, with Eurozone GDP rising by 0.4 percent in Q3 2009 (on the previous quarter) showing that it’s slowly recovering from the recession. Recent years have seen countries presiding over the EU drawing up beautiful plans in response to challenges. France was obliged to settle the conflict between Russia and Georgia following events in South Ossetia while the Czech Republic needed to act as a ‘peacekeeper’ in the ‘gas war’ between Moscow and Kiev. EU further expansion is one of Spain’s top priorities. The country plans to intensify negotiations with Croatia, as well as to continue talks with Turkey and other applicants for membership. Nevertheless, no drastic steps are likely, since the economic crisis postpones such intentions. Spain plans to open a new page in its relations with the USA but Madrid has always enjoyed good relations with Washington. Former PM Aznar was ready to send soldiers to overthrow Saddam Hussein’s regime, alongside those of the US and UK. The ideology of his People’s Party is similar to that of the US Republicans. However, A z n ar w a s o bl i ge d t o b e m ore cautious, following a shift in public opinion; he lost the next elections to socialist Zapatero (naturally allied to the US’s Democratic Party and Barack Obama).

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Spanish world

Spain Foreign Minister M.A. Moratinos has already visited Belarus

During Spain’s Presidency, the EU will also pay particular attention to developing relations with South America and the Caribbean, which Madrid sees as becoming more influential in the global economy. EU’s neighbours are ranked 4th among its priorities. “Prosperity and stability in Europe and in its neighbouring regions is interconnected,” states Spain’s EU Presidency programme. Madrid is primarily interested in its Mediterranean neighbours, for obvious reasons. ‘Efforts will be also taken to further develop the Eastern Partnership, to ease the progressive approach of six

member countries into the EU’ notes the Spanish programme concerning the Eastern Partnership initiative. Recently, in an interview with I n t e r f a x A g e n c y, t h e G e r m a n Ambassador to Minsk, H.E. Mr. Gebhardt Weiss, tackled the triangle of Belarus, the Eastern Partnership and Spain’s Presidency of the EU. “Tolerance, and the direction of the political process, are often more important than its pace,” he asserts. “The assessment of political process in Belarus remains unchanged. It has again found its clear reflection in Spain’s EU Presidency programme, via the Eastern Partnership…”

european context EGeopoliticsE As Spain’s new Foreign Minister, Miguel Ángel Moratinos made his first trip to Moscow. He held a joint press conference with Russia’s Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov. Although Europe and Russia have many ‘open’ issues (e.g., the absence of a new agreement on co-operation and the refusal of Moscow politicians to sign the Energy Charter) the Russian media primarily focused on the abolition of the visa regime on the eve of the Spanish diplomat’s arrival. Recently, Italy was stirring up public debate in announcing the future abolition of visas for Russians. Several other European capitals doubted Rome’s confidence, believing that the visa regime should be first abolished within Eastern Partnership countries. Spain occupied an intermediate position, with Moratinos failing to promise quick visa abolition while assuring that the procedure would

concerned, these have been greatly affected by our geographical distance. Spain is the only large EU country not to have an embassy in Minsk. Meanwhile, Spain is among the eight EU states to ratify the Partnership and Co-operation Agreement between the EU and Belarus, signed on March 6th, 1995. Unfortunately, this document — important to develop bilateral relationships — has been put aside. Last March’s visit to Belarus by the Spanish Foreign Minister, Moratinos, was the first by a Spanish politician of such level. It demonstrated that our countries don’t view distance as an invincible obstacle to developing relations. It’s now planned for a Spanish embassy to open in Minsk. Ac c ord i ng to Mor at i no s , he arrived in Minsk to ‘establish contacts’. Alexander Lukashenko believes it was important that the Head of Spain’s Foreign Ministr y came with the intention of seeing this ‘mysterious Spanish charities and families annually state, situated at accept over 2,000 Belarusian children Europe’s centre, with his own for recuperation (primarily those from eyes — to see in Chernobyl-affected regions, low which direction it income families and orphanages). is moving’. “Our Spain is ranked third after Italy and motivation [in cooperating with the Germany in taking such children EU — editor] is very strong,” said be simplified to the utmost, enabling the Belarusian President. “Today, the Russians to receive long-term multi- EU accounts for half of our turnover, entry visas. Obviously, Spain, whose with the remaining half being traded tourist branch has greatly suffered with the East. It’s vital for our state.” Over the first 10 months of 2009, from the crisis, is lobbying the interests turnover between Belarus and Spain of potential Russian visitors. totalled $146m, with Spanish imports Spain keen to see in which direc- prevailing. This equalled our level of tion Belarus is developing… trade with such partners as Venezuela, Belarus now borders the EU but Azerbaijan, Vietnam and Iran. Mr. Moratinos is keen on economic can we call the Portuguese or Spanish our neighbours? The Iberian Peninsula diplomac y, not ing t hat Sp anish is like a European Kamchatka for entrepreneurs are looking at opporus. Of course, we are often told that tunities for investment in Belarus. we live in a global village but I don’t Our two governments need to sign know whether to agree… As far as agreements to protect investments Belarusian-Spanish relations are and avoid double taxation. Visiting

Madrid last Decemb er, B elar us’ Foreign Minister, Sergei Martynov, also negotiated with diplomats and business representatives. B e l ar u s - Ag ro - Tr a c tor e nte rprise (with 55 percent Belarusian investments) has been operating on the Pyrenees since 2007, supplying Belarusian tractors to the Spanish market. In Belarus, 16 enterprises using Spanish capital (accounting for $1.2m) are currently operational. Reference: In 2008, $106,000 of Spanish investments were attracted i n t o t h e B e l a r u s i a n e c o n o m y. B etween Januar y and September 2009, this figure increased by $10,000 — still a drop in the ocean. Over the last three years, Spain has provided $200,000 of humanitarian assistance, with another $1m given in the form of monetary funds. The Belarusian Foreign Ministry assesses Spain’s help as considerable. Spanish charities and families annually accept over 2,000 Belarusian children for recuperation (primarily t h o s e f rom C h e r n oby l - af fe c te d regions, low income families and orphanages). Spain is ranked third after Italy and Germany in taking such children. On June 1st, 2009, an agreement was signed between the Government of the Republic of Belarus and the Government of the Kingdom of Spain regarding the recuperation of B elarusian children in Spain. Alongside a protocol to the treaty, this is almost the only piece of bilateral legislation, which undoubtedly needs improvement. Dozens of thousands of Belarusian children now have close relationships to Spanish families and 1,300 Belarusian students are studying Spanish at university level each year, promoting the successful development of bilateral relationships. Four universities offer training and a further 7,000 schoolchildren are also studying Spanish. By Igor Kolchenko

2010 беларусь.belarus

eEconomye investments

Ambitious but realizable goal In 2010, the Government aims to attract $2.7bn of direct foreign investments. These expectations presuppose improved administrative conditions and further liberalisation of the economy. According to the Government’s plans, in 2010, Belarus aims to reach the top 30 in the World Bank’s Doing Business ratings — an ambitious but achievable goal

resh international research shall ref lect the many progressive changes to national legislation. For example, the recent Doing Business report (covering reform from June 2008 to May 2009) was published before the signing of Presidential Decree #10 ‘On the Creation of Additional Conditions for Investment Activity in the Republic of Belarus’. According to experts, this document is a significant step towards improving the business environment. A leading analyst from the Uniter investment company, Oleg Andreev, tells us, “In fact, the decree brings the complete formalisation of relations between investors and the Belarusian state. It’s very important. Procedures of co-ordination previously took several months; they’ve now been considerably simplified. Crucially, the preferences which the document envisages are general; previously, a separate Presidential decree was needed to receive them. Now, everything is transparent and all investors are presented with ‘a basic package’.” Va ler y Fade e v, an IFC L ega l Advisor, notes, “I’m convinced that

беларусь.belarus 2010

the progressive nature of the decree will be taken into consideration in Doing Business research. Investors can now lease a land lot without entering an auction or tender, signif-

Belarus’ position in the World Bank’s Doing Business ratings

115

top 30

2007 2008 2009 2010 icantly facilitating the investment process. Until recently, it took a long time to arrange land lease; according to my estimations, at least nine

months. Additionally, investors no longer need to pay customs fees on imported equipment; this is of great significance. Of course, it’s also worth mentioning that sites can be simultaneously designed and constructed. Previously, many investors had to waste time waiting for projects to be approved.” Another document aiming to improve the business climate is the Presidential Decree ‘On Improving Control (Supervision) Activity in the Republic of Belarus’, which came in force on January 1st, 2010. The number of controlling bodies is limited while their duties and responsibilities are fully outlined — eliminating the opportunity for misuse of powers. Additionally, inspections of newly set-up companies are prohibited for the first two years after registration (except where established facts of violation are known). The decree requires state officials to justify their inspections, slim lining the process and f reeing entrepreneurs f rom unnecessary administrative responsibilities. They no longer need concern themselves with closure in cases of ‘minor violations’. The Government and the State Control Committee

investments EEconomyE

Business circles have their own attitude towards these changes. The Chairman of the B elarusian Union of Entrepreneurs, Alexander Kalinin, tells us, “The document is, of course, progressive. It aims to emancipate business, which is especially vital considering the crisis. We need to think laterally while being ready to take on risk.” The recent changes to tax legislation — as stipulated by the Special Part of the Tax Code — have also

Caterine Shaposhnikova

are convinced that the decree creates a flexible s y s t e m of s up e r v i sion and control for business, without unnecessary burden, while ensuring economic, public and environmental safety.

Liberalization: step by step

been welcomed by B elarusian business associations and are likely to be taken into account by international experts. This year, four payments were abolished: fees to the National Fund for the Support of Agricultural Producers; retail sales tax; tax on purchasing cars; and local car parking fees. This should benefit companies financially while

significantly simplifying the work of accounting services. According to the Ministry for Taxes and Levies, only five basic areas of tax now exist: VAT; profit tax; property tax; land tax; and ecological taxes. All other fees are one-off payments in particular circumstances. Until recently, Belarus was ranked almost last in the Doing Business report’s ‘tax payment’ category, which impeded the general assessment of the country’s business climate. However, the Government expects Belarus to have now improved this ranking, since the number of payments has been cut, as has their frequency. From 2010, those with an annual turnover of Br3.8bn (about $1.32m) or less can submit VAT declarations quarterly, alongside profit tax payments (the latter applies regardless of turnover). “We’ll continue making advances. In the near future, we’ll probably make some payments annual,” notes the Deputy Minister for Taxes and Levies, Larisa Kondratova. According to experts, this could shift Belarus into the list of global leaders for ‘simplicity of tax payments’. According to the Deputy Economy Minister, Andrei Tur, this year, progressive changes are expected in the field of licensing (in particular, the abolishment of licenses for retail trade) and pricing (state regulations to be significantly cut). Grand liberalisation of the labour market and of property relations is also expected. “Work on simplifying and improving conditions of economic activity began in 2007 and is continuing,” Mr. Tur notes. “We are gradually, step by step, conducting liberalisation and hope our foreign partners appreciate the positive results of these changes. This is very important, since this is not an easy year. Some of the global markets we work with are yet to overcome the crisis but we can compensate for export sales losses by encouraging investment activity — primarily from abroad.” By Vitaly Volyanyuk

2010 беларусь.belarus

Science and practice

In favour of innovations Belarusian economy becomes more responsive to sci-tech developments

ecently, an unusual biotechnological complex was c re ate d at t h e Nat i on a l Ac a d e my o f S c i e n c e o f Belarus, revolutionising the growing of greenhouse vegetables. The new, l i g ht - e m itt i ng d i o d e s are more efficient than traditional bulbs and emulate natural daylight, creating a more favourable environment for plants. The pale blue light encourages tomatoes, raising crop yields by 1520 percent. Moreover, traditional soil is replaced by mineral cotton, with moisture and nutrient elements under computer control. The technology can be applied at traditional greenhouse farms, making Belarusian tomatoes more competitive in quality and price, even in winter, compared to imports from southern countries. The innovation can also have application within schools, sanatoriums, residential accommodation, ships and, even, space craft, since it enables people to have fresh vegetables always at hand. Naturally, the fresher the vegetable, the tastier and more nutritious it is. Nu m e rou s i n n ov at i ons h ave been developed by Belarusian scientists over the last year, all for application in the domestic economy. In total, the National Academy of S ciences has created over 2,600 original developments in the past 12 months, including high-efficiency

беларусь.belarus 2010

machinery and equipment, tools, devices, materials, technologies and control systems. Moreover, over 170 new crop varieties and domestic animal breeds have been cultivated. In 2009, scientists from the National Academy of Sciences took part in 40 state sci-tech programmes, as well as numerous international programmes. Major ef for ts are b eing concentrated on innovations with practical applications. The Physics Institute has developed and produced universal three-wave lasers, widely used during surgical procedures; they are unrivalled, being able to perform various functions. Doctors have already developed a complex of medical technologies with the help of this laser, used in Belarus and abroad. Orders are flooding in from abroad for 2010 and beyond. The hig h-sp e e d SKIF sup ercomputer, created by the United Institute of Informatics Problems, is also benefiting medicine, allowing access to data from over 100 medical institutions within Belarus. Medical specialists can compare x-rays online to make an exact diagnosis, accessing from any of 1,200 automated work stations. The National Academy of Sciences is involved in promoting similar

sci-tech projects with real life applications. Mikhail My a s n i k o v i c h , the Chairman of the Presidium of t he Nat i ona l Academy of Sciences of Belarus, explains that, in 2009 alone, seven such new structures appeared at the NAS: in microbiology, DNA-testing and biotechnologies. These are the 5th and 6th such technological structures, with industrial manufactures inspired by their scientific achievements. “Science and manufacturing often lack an innovational link,” notes Mr. Myasnikovich. “In 2010, we plan to set up 12-15 more scientificpractical complexes; we’ll undoubtedly succeed. We’ll also begin to create a high-tech park focusing on microelectronics, optics and laser

Science and practice

Such a diverse investment experience

te ch n ol o g y — am ong d om e st i c industrial enterprises.” Meanwhile, a considerable portion of sci-tech goods are to be exported. In 2009, the National Academy of Sciences sold $17.5m of products and this figure should rise at least 1,5-fold in 2010. It may not seem a great deal

but scientists assure us that all their developm e nt s are 1 0 0 percent added value, with no import components. By 2015, the NAS plans to increase its exports 2.5-fold. The high level of NAS inventions is attracting foreign partners; good relations particularly exist with similar German organisations. Over ten joint projects are currently being implemented with French partners and active collaboration is in evidence with the UK. Recently, Minsk was visited by a group of American scientists, with whom we also plan to conduct some joint research. The eastern vector of co-operation is also gaining, while Arab countries, Venezuela and African states showed interest last year. Practical results are vital, with $20m of contracts being signed. Financing has already begun for DNA-technology and space information analyses. Belarusian industry remains the major supplier of local scientific

developments. A typical example is an unrivalled worldwide concept of a multiply-link trans-continental road train. Its advantage is that each of its links is able to carry 120 or more tonnes of cargo over thousands of kilometres, using an independent power unit. Its synchronous wheel steering makes it more manoeuvrable, as developed by the NAS Joint Institute of Machine Building. A pilot model has been manufactured at Minsk’s Automobile Works — famous worldwide for its line-haul trains. Other scientific developments are being brought to life at Minsk Motor Works and at the Belarusian Automobile Works, which has a 320-tonne capacity heavy duty dump truck. In total, in 2009, new models accounted for almost a third of all Belarusian industrial output. Belarus has set a new ambitious task: to organise high-speed railway movement across the country, with travel time from Minsk to any regional centre of the republic reduced 22.5-fold over the next 2-3 years. Neighbouring Russia generally relies on importing component parts but Belarus is determined to use domestic manufactures. “We’ve received proposals from investors to develop high-speed trains in Belarus, using technologies developed by us, as well as foreign innovations,” asserts Belarus’ Prime Minister, Sergei Sidorsky. “One industrial enterprise in the Minsk region has been asked to organise high-speed production.” This innovation is essential to the republic. We belong to a small number of states with an extremely open economy; foreign trade turnover actually exceeds GDP. Under such conditions, we must manufacture competitively — as specified by the strategy for national science development. By Vladimir Bibikov

2010 беларусь.belarus

Energetics alternative resources

Energy of life The time shall soon come when oil, coal and gas resources are depleted. This knowledge is pushing us to return to our own ‘origins’ and promote alternative energy use. The southeastern area of Belarus — the Gomel region — is taking its own steps to train specialists and to research and apply alternative energy sources Hot spot

Vadim Kondrashov

Belarusian scientists believe that the 200km long Pripyat flexure — situated in the Gomel region — is the most promising site on the Belarusian map for geothermal potential. The ‘hot spot’ — 2,000-5,000 metres in depth — embraces the cities of Rechitsa, Svetlogorsk, Gomel, Oktyabrsky and Kalinkovichi. The temperature of its water res ources f luc tu ates from 20 to 115 degrees. The underground ‘climate’ of the Gomel region became known in the 1970s — when Belarusian academician Gerasim Bogomolov proposed

беларусь.belarus 2010

using its energy for consumer needs. “At that time, geothermal energy wasn’t taken seriously although, in the West, it had been used to produce electricity and heating since the early 20th century. Forty countries worldwide currently reap the benefits,” explains the Frantsisk Skorina State University’s Geological-Geographical Department, in Gomel. “Now that energ y resources are dwindling, the issue is more acute, bringing attention.” The hot waters of the Gomel region have been thoroughly studied for several years, including by the National Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Geological Sciences, which assessed the geothermal potential of the Pripyat flexure. On average, the energy equates

to 0.5-1 tonnes of equivalent fuel per metre; in some places, the figure reaches 4-5 tonnes. In other words, a metre of the Pripyat flexure could produce as much heat as the combustion of 4-5 tonnes of crude oil. The underground energy source has another wonderful feature, restoring itself indefinitely — unlike oil and gas, which are exhaustible. Financiers have calculated that geothermal sources cost half as much to process as usual fuels. The Pripyat’s deposits could not be used to create electricity — as in Italy, Japan, the USA and other countries — but could be used to directly heat homes — as in Warsaw, Klaipeda and Paris. In Belarus, geothermal potential is already being mastered, with several facilities operating near Minsk and one works in Polotsk. New projects are under development.

Bio-effect in focus

Just a few years ago, Belarusians learnt about the advantages of biogas facilities from scientific publications. Now, three such complexes are

alternative resources Energeticse be saved, with bio-gas able to annually cover about 3 percent of electricity and heat energy currently generated countrywide. Additionally, such facilities should help reduce the emission of ‘greenhouse’ gases, while reducing environmental pollution of the soil and water table where animal-breeding farms are situated.

Vadim Kondrashov

As if in a museum

The operators of the new bio-gas complex Vilaly Fedotov and Dmitry Ostapchuk are satisfied with the operation results

successfully operating in the country. The last came into operation at Gomel’s Poultry Factory — the largest in the region. It embraces 32 poultry yards, housing 850,000 places for birds and an incubator cellar. The project’s price was over Br8bn. Equipment was supplied by an Austrian company, while the Ministr y for Natural Resources and Environmental Protection, the Ministry for Agriculture and Food and Belarus’ Energy Efficiency Department covered most costs. The complex runs on raw plant compost and chicken manure. “The process is profitable though not easy,” say staff. “Residues remaining from water purification are fermented and decontaminated — to produce methane. On combustion, these generate heat and electricity. Beneficially, less methane escapes into the atmosphere and we save money on creating electricity.” The facility is designed to generate 330kW of electricity and 450kW of heat energy per hour. Using this alternative source of energy, 2,600,000kW

of electricity and 4,200,000Gcal of heat energy could be generated annually. The company can cover 50 percent of its need for electricity and half its heating needs. Meanwhile, chicken manure can be made into high-quality and ecologically friendly organic fertiliser (which needs no addition disinfection) — to be used on the factory’s agricultural fields. In the Gomel region, another facility is now being built, with an energy capacity of 1mW — at Sovkhoz — Sozh Combine JSC. An agreement on the project’s realisation has been concluded between the company and German TelDaFax ENERGY GmbH. The site has been chosen, located close to the production buildings of a large pig-breeding complex. Bio-gas is to be used at a gas powered electrical generator — to produce electricity. Ten such facilities are to be built in the country this year, with a total of 148 planned for the near future — producing 236 megawatts. The Government’s calculations indicate that 160,000 tonnes of equivalent fuel will

These days, even small children are taught to save energy and resources, gaining a new view on alternative energy and a careful attitude towards our natural wealth. Teachers are also trying to inspire their imagination, in the search for alternatives to oil, coal and gas… The first Belarusian Museum of Energy has appeared in the Gomel region, including activities for schoolchildren. The museum’s three halls house over a hundred exhibits — such as torch, oil and gas lanterns and energysaving lamps. One hall is devoted to energy-saving projects, with schoolchildren encouraged to take an active part. One model shows an automated system of lighting; the sensor allows electricity costs to be halved. Other projects include a ferry operated by hydro-power and a model of the first Belarusian nuclear power station. “We have an information-training centre for young people,” explains Tatiana Atrokhova, the Deputy Head of the Gomel Regional Executive Committee’s Education Department. “Our task is to excite children, inspiring them to think of ways of saving energy — considering how much electricity costs and how we can preserve it.” Another hall houses international and national legislative acts in the field of energy-saving. Models of farms, houses and factories using alternative energy sources are also on show (primarily, solar and wind). Guides introduce these to children in detail, so that these young citizens can develop a feeling for alternative energy. As adults, their lives will hardly be possible without it. By Violetta Dralyuk

2010 беларусь.belarus

Partnership medium New EU project to help Polotsk become energy efficient city

olotsk has joined the new EU-funded energy efficiency project SURE — Sustainable Use of Renewable Energy in ENPI Cites. The first working meeting of partners took place in German Friedrichshafen. The project is being realised as part of the EU programme CIUDAD —

беларусь.belarus 2010

Co-operation in Urban Development and Dialogue. Polotsk is working with Murcia (Spain), Sale (Morocco) and the Agency for the Development of Sardinia (Italy). The leading partner is administration of Friedrichshafen, a twin city of Polotsk. All events being planned for Polotsk are also being organised in Morocco’s Sale.

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Energetics Over the next two and a half years, Friedrichshafen and Murcia are to share their experience with Polotsk and Sale regarding the implementation of energy efficient technologies and alternative energy. The project is receiving assistance from the Energ y Efficiency Department of the State Committee for Standardisation of the Republic of Belarus, the Moroccan Centre for the Development of Renewable Energy, the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (France) and other regional and national organisations involved in regional development and energy. The project is funded by the European Union. The SURE project is part of the Covenant of Mayors — a commitment by signatory towns and cities to go beyond the objectives of the EU’s energy policy to reduce CO2 emissions by 2020. This is being achieved through enhanced energy efficiency and cleaner energy production and use. Participants share their advanced experience in energy saving, while implementing the EU’s climate and environmental protection policy. Some 500 European cities and towns are signatories of the Covenant of Mayors. Polotsk has plans to join it in 2010. The project envisages a plan of action for sustainable energy development over the next decade, with specific goals for Polotsk. The city will host workshops and conferences on energy efficiency and on the use of renewable sources of energy. The project also includes ‘energy saving days’ and publicity campaigns. European advance energy saving technologies will be installed at social infrastructure facilities — as pilot projects. Later, Polotsk will host an interregional conference for the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument, sharing its experience of sustainable energy efficient management with other cities from the region. By Diana Kirilova

Projects

Eloquent features of the image Belarusian and European universities liaise in academic fraternity updating of educational programmes and develops the pedagogical potential of our universities. We are ready to propose several joint projects in the field of intercultural and social relations to Grodno University.” Ac c o r d i n g t o M r. G a i ž u t i s , Lithuania’s participation in the Bologna Process has brought only advantages to his university; its lecturers and students have been able to participate in exchange programmes with other European universities, enhancing its quality and prestige. Alumni are more in demand on the labour market and better prepared for their working and public life. Naturally, lectures need to be offered in many subjects in English, to allow foreign students access — not easily achieved. The international scientific conference i n Gro d no gathered rectors of leading Russian

By Tatiana Vishnevskaya

Exploring one of the laboratories

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he Rector of Vilnius’ Pedagogical University, academician Algirdas Gaižutis, recently participated in an international scientific conference dedicated to the 70th anniversary of Grodno’s Yanka Kupala State University. He said that European and Belarusian universities should create an example of academic fraternity, since they’ve been socio-cultural centres of national communities for centuries, with a role to play in our modern times. These educational establishments not only teach our young people, ready for a professional role, but shape the elite of society, giving them a sense of worth and responsibility. Inter-university partnerships benefit trans-border community. “The universities of Grodno and Vilnius are neighbours. Six years ago, we signed a co-operative agreement with Grodno State University, envisaging our two establishments’ lecturers and students meeting at conferences in Lithuania and Belarus. There is huge potential for collaboration via international programmes, including the Eastern Partnership,” explains Mr. Gaižutis, adding, “This is important not only for universities but for the European life in general. Our joint participation in EU programmes brings evident economic profit while positively influencing the quality of education and the image of our universities. It also brings

and European universities, such as Immanuel Kant State University of Russia, Biberach University of Applied S ciences (Germany), University of Bialystok (Poland), and Vilnius’ Pedagogical University (Lithuania). The rectors’ speeches looked at trends, problems and prospects for universities’ innovative development in modern society. The role of Belarusian science in the global scientific process came under scrutiny, as did the influence of globalisation on the development of modern universities. They also focused on the problems of university education and its influence on the socio-cultural context, as well as paths of innovative development in higher education. The certificate ‘Honoured Professor of Grodno’s Yanka Kupala State University’ was solemnly awarded to rectors of Belarusian and foreign universities: including the Rector of Vilnius’ Pedagogical University — Mr. Gaižutis, the Rector of Immanuel Kant State University of Russia — Prof. Andrey Klemeshev, the Rector of Biberach University of Applied Sciences — Prof. Thomas Vogel, and the Rector of University of Bialystok — Prof. Jerzy Nikitorowicz. To date, 12 scientist-researchers, lecturers and publicreligious figures have been awarded.

2010 беларусь.belarus

Panorama  Old and new addresses

 Efficient optimisation

In 2009, Belarus traded with 181 countries

Belarusian Tsentr Scientific and Production Association to manufacture industrial robots

 Venue for real projects Eleven countries participate in International Investment Forum in Vitebsk

By Olga Bogacheva

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By Milena Anufriyenok

he State Tsentr Scientific and Production Association at the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus plans to produce robots for the automobile industry. Tsentr specialists are currently studying opportunities for producing robots for tractor building. “We plan to start the manufacture of robots primarily for cutting and, maybe, for metal-welding,” Alexander Pozharsky, the Head of the Department for Managerial Systems, tells us. “Everything will depend on the needs of domestic manufacturers in robotics, which we are studying at present.” Some components will be purchased from abroad, with the remainder manufactured domestically. Industrial robots are used in many industrial spheres worldwide, but primarily in car manufacture — for stamping and welding, paint-spraying and assembling. Large automated factories use robots at every stage: from material unloading to the manufacture of ready-made goods. Such production facilities are completely automated, able to work day-andnight without interruption. People are employed to control the process and manage the robots via computers. The launch of robots in manufacturing brings optimal use of capacity while reducing costs and enhancing profitability. Tsentr Scientific and Production Association primarily focuses on creating industrial equipment, relying on centrifugal technologies. The enterprise closely co-operates with organisations from Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan, developing and producing mining and construction industry equipment for these countries. Centrifugal grinding mills produced in Belarus account for around 70 percent of the total volume of marble powder produced in Russia. By Olga Belyavskaya

Tolerance

No aliens among ours Refugees are forced to leave their homes not of their own choice but from necessity — as a result of military conflict, persecution, intolerance or violence. They flee for their lives, trying to protect themselves and their children, hoping to gain freedom

Sholeh Safavi, a representative of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees in Belarus

enable us to engage in more activity, especially at an official level, making contacts with offices of foreign states accredited in Belarus. I hope the agreement will be signed in the first half of 2010. The Belarusian Government has announced its desire to see the document signed by the UNHCR and the ceremony is to take place in Minsk. I’m optimistic about the future — as conditions are likely to be met.

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Tolerance

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ever meet refugees and, if so, do they mention discrimination in Belarus — in private talks or at meetings? Such trips, as well as our participation in regional seminars and conferences, enable us to promote UNHCR activity. As regards communication with refugees, we always meet their communities and invite them to regional events. Personal meetings are also organised. I’m convinced that it’s not characteristic of Belarusians to be discriminatory although, of course, there are exceptions. Some employers would still choose a local citizen over a foreigner and some landlords would have concerns over renting flats to foreigners. Jobs and housing are major problems — but not only for refugees. I must stress that refugees’ rights are upheld in Belarus. Many are in employment and are doing everything possible to succeed, learning the language to improve their adaptation. Many work as doctors, university lecturers, architects and local heads or run their own business. They can achieve a great deal if they set their minds to it. Younger generation refugees often work at hair-

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that they don’t forget their homeland and preserve their national identity, in addition to integrating in Belarus. The Georgian community is eager to undertake the same education; Gomel is being considered as a potential venue. Has interaction with your major partners — the Interior Ministry, the State Border Committee and other interested agencies — been going well? Which directions are most promising? The Interior Ministry and the State Border Committee are our major partners. The Interior Ministr y’s Department for Citizenship and Migration is responsible for migration issues at national and regional level. The State Border Committee is the first to greet those arriving in Belarus for asylum. In my view, all our projects and joint activities are being conducted efficiently. Meanwhile, the Foreign Ministry has been greatly assisting the UNHCR Office in Belarus, helping prepare our country agreement on co-operation. As regards the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, the Education Ministry and the Health Ministry, I’m convinced that, if the local integration of refugees project is realised, they’ll become more involved, strengthening our partnership. I’d also like to note the contribution of local authorities, mainly city executive committees, as they take on major burdens regarding refugees. We also work closely with the Belarusian State University and the Belarusian State Economic University. Russian language classes are organised at the BSU’s Philological Department, for refugees, while material, medical and social aid is distributed through the Belarusian Red Cross Society. Our long-term collaboration with the Collegium of Lawyers is mutually beneficial and sees good results. Recently, we’ve also begun liaising with the Justice Ministry. Your working schedule includes trips countrywide for meetings with local authorities and representatives of state and public organisations. Do you

dressing and beauty salons, cafés and restaurants. How far are Belarusians tolerant of migrants and refugees? Belarus boasts a rich history of tolerance towards those from other regions and countries. This stems from general tolerance. Law-enforcement bodies react quickly where the law is broken, regardless of who has been affected — a Belarusian or a foreigner. The media, intelligentsia and scientific circles need to address the problem of tolerance. During today’s global economic crisis — bringing falling standards of living in Belarus and in other countries — foreigners, and refugees in particular, are vulnerable. There is a temptation to blame them for sharpening the situation — with people prone to lay criminal acts at their door. With this in mind, we must remind everyone of the need for tolerance towards those from abroad. It’s also vital to continue explaining differences between migrants and refugees. Let’s return to the topic of refugees’ criminalisation. On the eve of our meeting, I spoke to the Interior Ministr y, which asserts that refugees in Belarus are law-abiding. If problems arise, t he y pr imar ily relate to registration or

Tolerance working illegally. Asylum-seekers and refugees are prosecuted administratively but they are law-abiding people trying to meet the laws of the country which has welcomed them. You’ve mentioned that some refugees are employed in quite prestigious posts. This is good to know but you must admit that it’s more common to find people employed illegally, usually on the market… You’re not wrong; I’ll try to explain why. Firstly, foreigners arriving in Belarus lack full access to local employment. However, they’re trying to find the most accessible way to earn money. Sometimes, their friends or relatives advise them into certain jobs on the market although these d o n’ t h a v e long term prosp e c ts, and are outside of

the law. Refugees don’t always initially understand the implications of such work — such as a lack of pension. Of course, it’s not easy to find well-paid, above board work (firstly, due to language problems and, secondly, because of the impossibility of confirming qualifications and education). It’s a vicious circle. Refugees may wish to work in another sector of the economy but the need for an income overrides other concerns. They often have large families of children, with only the father working to support them. The longer people live here, the better they understand the opportunities open to them. Speaking to refugees, we often hear that people are interested in permanent jobs and want to earn money within the legal system. This is also important from the point of view of receiving Belarusian citizenship. Many prefer to earn less while

Sisters Mohammed from Afghanistan study at Vitebsk secondary school

working legally, since they’re thinking of their future. As a rule, cities attract the most refugees. Is this because people tended to live in urban areas in their homeland? However, refugees’ settlement in rural areas presupposes employment opportunities at agro-industrial enterprises; most refugees lack such skills. Of course, it may be that refugees prefer cities, since villages usually offer worse living conditions… All the reasons you’ve mentioned are true. City infrastructure is really better developed and people have more opportunities to work and study. Most of our refugees come from Afghanistan and previously lived in Kabul or Kandahar, so they’re used to city realities rather than village life. Another aspect is that parents listen to the wishes of their children, who prefer living in more comfortable places and see their future in large cities. Importantly, in villages, people know each other well; everything is open. Meanwhile, in large cities, refugees’ external differences disappear; it’s easier for them to be subsumed in the crowd…. According to statistics, 107 refugees have already received Belarusian citizenship. Do you think this step is positive for refugees and society in general? Unambiguously — yes. Local integration is a long-term solution for refugees, including the receiving of citizenship, which allows them to stay in the country. It’s also beneficial to the state and society. Receiving citizenship does not hamper refugees’ own cultural and religious traditions; no one pushes them to change their faith or stop following their traditions on receiving a Belarusian passport. Do you believe the number of foreigners seeking asylum in Belarus will rise in coming years? Migration flow is rising globally, so the number of refugees will surely grow, including in Belarus — with more asylum-seekers registered.

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Global categories climate

Weather change is not always bad, Or how to accustom yourself to climatic cataclysms

he Director of Hydrometeorology Department at Belarus’ Ministr y of Natural Resources a n d E nv i r o n m e n t a l Protection, Maria Germenchuk, tells us that over 40 percent of Belarus’ GDP is dependent on the weather. Ten percent comes from agriculture while forestry and public services also rely on weather conditions. “Belarus has always been at the forefront of climate change studies, since our economy is very sensitive to changes taking place,” she notes. “Last year was remarkable for the European and global community for climate change. Our major task is not only to define the reasons for such change but to adapt our weather-dependent branches to these new conditions.”

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Temperature beats records

Facts confirm that the Belarusian climate is changing. 2009 continued the warm years which began in the late 1980s. According to Yelena Komarovskaya, who heads the R e p u b l i c a n Hy d r o meteorological Centre’s Climate Department, the average temperature in Belarus last year was +7.1°С (1.3°С higher than the climatic norm). She explains how this norm is calculated, “The Global Meteorological Organisation recommends calculating

climate Global categoriese this figure by looking at temperatures over a 30 year period — from 1961 to 1990. In Belarus, we look at 100 years of data. However, the figures do not actually differ, regardless of which method we use.” Last year, eight out of 12 months were warmer than the climatic norm. The positive anomaly was observed from January to April and was also registered in July, September, November and December. In turn, May, August and October were colder than usual. The climatic norm was only met in June. The lowest temperature in Belarus was registered in the first ten days of January, at Klichev meteorological station — minus 28.1 Celsius degrees. The hottest day was in July — at Lelchitsy (plus 34.2). 2009 was record making, with a warm winter as seen only once in 5-6 years and a warm spring as observed once in 4-5 years. The autumn showed temperatures seen once in 20 years! The largest deviations from the autumn climatic norm were in the Gomel and Mogilev regions — 2 degrees (as seen only once in 30 years). September and, especially, November were extremely warm.

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How to avoid floods

Sadly, climate change brings more than rising temperatures. Changes in wind speed, hydrological figures, precipitation and sunlight are also being registered. Last year, 817mm of precipitation fell in Belarus (125 percent of the climatic norm). April, August and September were dry while the remaining months were wet. In 2009, snow covered Belarus in the middle and end of December. However, snow surprised Belarusians less last year than rain. An extremely rainy October witnessed 111mm of precipitation (217 percent of the climatic norm); this is only the second time in recent Belarusian history that such rain has been recorded. In October, the monthly maximum of precipitation was exceeded at most meteorological stations in the Vitebsk region (Verkhnedvinsk, Sharkovshchina, Dokshitsy, Polotsk, Lepel, Senno and Yezerishche) and in Zhlobin. In November, the rain never

stopped — resulting in 132 percent of the climatic norm. “Weather also influences the level of water in rivers and lakes,” explains Marina Nagibina, who heads the Republican Hy d ro - m e t e oro l o g i c a l C e nt re’s Hydrological Forecasts Department. “Last winter, Belarusian rivers hardly froze, with very thin ice which broke earlier than usual. As a result, river navigation continued longed than usual. This year, high floods are possible in spring, since the ice is 7-29 centimetres in most places (24-31cm on Minsk Sea, Vileika water reservoir and Lake Naroch). Some tributaries of the Nieman, Dnieper, Berezina, Sozh and Pripyat are frozen, with water-meadows also icy.”

Storms coming

Reports of storms and other weather anomalies are becoming more common, according to Dmitry Ryabov, who heads the Republican Hydro-meteorological Centre’s Hydro-meteorological Forecast Service. Last year, his service announced 1,563 unfavourable weather warnings and 30 storms. Data proved extremely accurate, with 96.2 of daily prognoses and 96.5 percent of storm warnings coming true. Last year, 4,195 organisations asked the Centre for advice (307 more than in 2008).” Climate change is bringing advantages and disadvantages, explains Ms. Germenchuk, “It’s possible to adapt to these conditions and benefit from these natural phenomena but we must be ready for negative effects. Agriculture may benefit, since growing periods are extended by warm weather and we have longer frost-free periods. There is more sunlight, we can sow earlier and harvest later, ensuring better harvests. However, we also see early frosts in May, more precipitation and changed wind speeds, which influence the final result. Belarusian meteorologists are not being passive; much money is being invested in designing and acquiring high-tech software to monitor the situation and funds are being used to buy supervisory control systems.” By Yelena Simonyuk

2010 беларусь.belarus

Markets

Islands in ocean of books

France to Belarus, H.E. Mr. Michel Raineri, noted that the Minsk exhibition is the first cultural event to be held since the January signing of a BelarusianFrench agreement on co-operation in the field of culture, education, science, technology and media. “Similar forums are organised worldwide, bringing together publishers and readers — whom the industry is targeting,” notes Belarus’ Information Minister, Oleg Proleskovsky. “This year’s exposition has been unusual — especially in its number of participants. There were 619 exhibits on show, showing that we are striving to expand the information space and strengthen intercultural and international ties. There are no borders or language barriers in this process.” Who took part this year? Among the exhibits were culinary encyclopaedias, tourist guides, children’s story and colouring l Vital iy Gi

he BelEXPO National E x h i b i t i o n C e n t r e’s book fair has welcomed entries from 26 countries — including Ukraine, Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Israel, Iran, the USA, Cuba and Venezuela. The five day event was led by France — as the exhibition’s honourable guest. Russia, Ukraine, Israel and Kazakhstan have had the honour previously at the fair, which has been organised annually since 1993. The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of

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Presentation of the book “Slutsk Gospel”

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Minsk successfully hosts 17th International Book Fair — Books of Belarus-2010

At the book exhibition

books, maps, medical reference texts and works of fiction. Historical, military and scientific books were also on display. Not only the contents of books but their designs attracted attention. Among the most interesting editions were serious encyclopaedias by Kazhan art studio (styled to look old), Mikhail Bakumenko’s handwritten 16kg Tracking Belarusian Treasures and fantastically decorated small, handwritten books by Yuri Malash, which detail Belarusian legacy, history and cultural treasures. There was a veritable ocean of books but individual ‘islands’ stood out. It was impossible to pass the Korean stand without trying the ancient craft of character writing. Meanwhile, the Belarusian Encyclopaedia Publishing House wafted alluring aromas as it cooked Belarusian dishes from the culinary books showcased on its stand. The Venezuelans encouraged visitors to try playing their marakas (like a rattle)

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France — the honorable guest at Minsk exhibition

while Israeli artist Irena Obolski offered master classes in parchment creation, following ancient Jewish traditions. Meanwhile, the Encyclopaedics’ stand included genealogy editions which enabled us to learn whether we are related to Polish gentry or nobility. France’s stand had wonderful attractions as well. With its honourable guest status, it had the opportunity to showcase many books by French authors in the original language, as well as those in Russian and Belarusian. Among them was young Christian Garcin’s Le Vol Du Pigeon Voyageur, translated into Russian by Belarusian Makbel Publishing House. Colourful French albums on arts and gastronomy also drew much interest, alongside textbooks and country guides. Moreover, literary meetings and autograph-sessions with French writers were organised. There was even a raffle to win tickets for Patricia Kaas’ concert in Minsk.

Of course, the hosts of the fair — Belarusian publishing houses — had much to offer and surprise us with, such as a 5kg copy of the Slutsk Gospel, presented by the Belarusian Exarchate’s Publishing House. The original is a unique, handwritten 16th century document — one of the country’s greatest Orthodox relics. It was thought lost after WWII but was miraculously returned early in the 21st century. The edition is almost an exact copy of that ancient handwritten monument, with titles, first letters and headings following the original design — in cinnabar and gold. Remarkably, the first ever copy of this unique book was presented by President Lukashenko to the Patriarch of Moscow and AllRussia, Kirill. The Belarusian Exarchate has already begun restoration of another rare gospel — that of Polotsk, which was written 400 years after that of Slutsk. Mastatskaya Litaratura’s stand boasted some editions newly published

in 2010, such as books by Victor Pravdin, Victor Gordey and Slavomir Antonovich. The Napoleon Orda: Path to the Homeland edition was also on show; it won the Grand Prix at Moscow’s 6th International Book Art CIS Contest. The Belarusian Encyclopaedia’s stand was the most popular, owing to its many-volume editions — such as Belarus’ Nature, Belarus’ Architecture and Encyclopaedias for Schoolchildren and Students. Additionally, there were many people wishing to purchase the Grand Duchy of Lithuania encyclopaedia. The latter was initially planned as a two-volume book but so much information was collected that a third volume was published. It goes on sale in a month’s time. This literary harbour was filled with talented captains, steering their intellectual vessels. Among them were Belarusian writers Nikolay Cherginets, Naum Galperovich, Vladimir Lipsky and Victor Gordey, in addition to Russian Mikhail Veller, Israeli writer and journalist Mark Golesnik and French authors Anne-Marie Pol and Pierre Corneille. They generously devoted time, words and autographs to their readers. “I’d love to see such shows take place more often. People come here not only for entertainment but to find books — food for brains. You can see them thinking, their eyes lighting up, with smiles on their faces. It’s wonderful! Moreover, the fair provides a good opportunity for writers and poets to meet their target audience — lovers of their art,” stresses Belarusian Union of Artists member Alexander Galkevich. Such expositions always achieve their aim, bringing important contacts and giving birth to interesting publishing projects. They facilitate the exchange of international experience in the field of book publishing and distribution while delighting book lovers. There is no doubt that next year’s fair will be no less fascinating. Germany is expected to be the honourable captain at the 18th Minsk International Book Fair. By Lyudmila Minkevich

2010 беларусь.belarus

Legacy

Two captains Alexander Alexeev and Oleg Lukashevich find Belarus’ true treasures and unveil previously undiscovered secrets of their homeland

he two men have decided to convince everyone that their motherland is not a ‘marshy spot on the map’ but a fully-fledged European country with its own unique culture and history. For many years, Alexeev and Lukashevich have been travelling through their native land, unveiling Belarus’ treasures anew, showing the true nature of our national identity. Belarus’ Legacy is an art project promoting little known museum rarities, uniquely beautiful churches and splendid palaces and castles. The friends have been working hard to share their passion on TV and via their illustrated books and photo exhibitions.

Authors’ workshop

I’ve met Alexander and Oleg previously, at presentations of their albums and photo exhibitions. Today, we’re sitting in a cosy studio at the 1st Belarusian TV Channel. Oleg is showing me a photo of the original Cross of St. Yevfrosinia Polotskaya, saying, “This shot was taken in 1910, from an authentic photo plate kept in St. Petersburg.” Numerous books and albums on history, culture, pictorial ar t and archi-

tecture, as well as editions in foreign languages, diplomas, awards, rare photos from the early 20th century, icons and artefacts from abroad testify to their authors’ unusual characters. Oleg Lukashevich is a famous journalist, who began his career at the TV News Agency and, later, headed an artistic association. Alexander Alexeev is an editor, a candidate of economic sciences and a talented designer.

Seeing is believing

Alexeev and Lukashevich knew from the very start how to highlight Belarus’ advantages, not via the prism of its beautiful and talented people or using photos depicting its golden cornfields, dense forests and mystical marshes (the ‘lungs’ of Europe). They concentrated on some ‘surface’ topics which, for some reason, did not cause interest among their countrymen. Alexeev and Lukashevich have decided to photograph our architectural monuments. “Civilisation is judged by achievements in culture, art and architecture. Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches and palaces create the silhouettes of our cities and of the whole country,” stresses Alexander. Ma ny B e l a r u s i a n p a l a c e s and churches are true masterpieces. However, we take them for granted, even when we live nearby. Residents of Athens and Rome are so surrounded by antiquities that they hardly notice them. Meanwhile, Belarusians can daily pass St. Saviour’s Church in Polotsk and hardly give it a second glance. It was built in the 12th Alexander Alexeev and Oleg Lukashevich and their art project “Belarus Legacy. Treasures”

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Legacy century under the order of the perspective. The ‘two captains’ first Russian saint, Yevfrosinia. have studied historical literaIf we are to care for our ture and consulted specialists to treasures in the appropriate ensure their own understanding, way, we must change percepdeveloping their own expedition tions of these wonderful sites routes and taking thousands of — among our own citizens photos, using modern cameras. and among foreign guests. Of course, the weather was “From 2 0 0 1 - 2 0 0 2 , we not always fine. Alexander travelled through Belarus, recalls, “There were often situacollecting enough material tions when we had 15-20 degree to screen a hundred episodes frosts. However, we were so o f O u r L e g a c y,” r e c a l l s engrossed in our work that we Lukashevich. “The fact that forgot to feel uncomfortable. We we’ve managed to discover only realised how cold we were a hundred interesting when we found that our fingers monuments in our homeland couldn’t move and that our is a revelation — for us and shoes were wet. We forget such for viewers. Most Belarusians inconveniences when we take a know about Petergof, Russia’s good photo, of course.” Golden Ring and Parisian Each photo is an expresbeauties but know almost The icon of Budslav Holy Mother was painted at the end of the XVI sion of its author — using century in Rome and in the subsequent centuries was decorated with light, shade and composition. nothing of their native land. precious metals and stones using donations of Belarusian believers Some have, of course, visited Alexander and Oleg clearly Mir and Nesvizh — with their demonstrate that the beauty of 16th century castles — but there is so “To understand the phenomena Belarus’ cultural heritage via harmony much more that we should feel proud of Belarusian civilisation, we must of form, light and emotional expressiveof. We deserve to take pride in the comprehend its foundations,” muses ness. Their work has been praised by the grandeur of Belarusian culture.” Lukashevich. “Local people were Information Ministry which — unlike Alexander adds, “It might seem connoisseurs of art, bringing beautiful the artistic council — has given Heritage evident: there is a wealth of rare archi- pieces from abroad. This shows the a green light. Their major artistic project tectural sites remaining in Belarus. lifestyle of our forefathers, their culture has set sail… However, many of those we’ve discov- and sense of taste.” Oleg has his own explanation for their ered have shocked us and our audiences success, “Previously issued photo-albums with their beauty. People have been Green light for big ships are, of course, worth while. Scientists have surprised to find them situated in our Belarus’ Heritage album was first also done much to research our historical country, rather than abroad. Our film issued in 2004 and has been several monuments. Dozens of books on archiand illustrated albums have changed times re-edited, with a total circulation tecture and art have been published too, stereotypical views of Belarus.” Oleg of over 30,000 copies. All have been sold but they all have a generalised approach adds, “We sometimes made unexpected — an incredible case for our national — combining ethnography, sculpture discoveries. For instance, in the village of book publishing business. However, the and architecture. As a result, they make Gremyache, in the Kamenets district, we Heritage edition faced a problem initially. readers dizzy; the necessary accents found a beautiful, yet deserted, mansion An artistic council of one of our agencies have not been outlined. We’ve taken surrounded by the dense forest of the rejected the book, perhaps jealous a different approach, highlighting key Belovezhskaya Pushcha. A wealthy family of the much younger men’s discov- points and inviting our TV viewers and once lived there. We were impressed by eries. Book publishing has always been readers to take a closer look at Belarus. its graceful, winding staircase, decorated successful in Belarus but editions with Architecture has been chosen as the first with iron filigree work — such crafts- eye-catching photos of the country were focus point, while pieces of decorativemanship! In 2001, the stairs were safe rare. Old school photographers experi- applied art from (antiquity to modern but had disintegrated by the time of mented with light and angles but never days) is the second. We’ve been looking our last visit.” As a result, Alexeev and focused on the masterpieces themselves. at gold and silver artefacts decorated Lukashevich managed to photograph Alexander and Oleg are the first to fully with gemstones, as shown in our second another example of lost beauty. highlight their uniqueness, taking a new book of the Belarus’ Heritage project

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Legacy — called Treasures. Experts said we would fail, since so few true treasures remain in the country. Luckily, our searches discovered otherwise. However, we’ve had to keep the location of church relics secret, to ensure they remain safe.” Alexeev and Lukashevich stress, “Support and trust from the Orthodox and Catholic churches has been very important for us during the Belarus’ Heritage art project. This is why all our albums are blessed by Metropolitan Filaret and Cardinal Kazimir Świątek.”

People’s diplomats

Belarusian embassies know how to promote our country abroad and hold many editions of the Belarus’ Heritage albums. These reveal the beauty and uniqueness of our country, situated in the centre of Europe. The Pope and Queen Elizabeth II have received albums. Clearly, Oleg and Alex are ‘people’s diplomats’. Capitals of the world — such as Rome and London — now know about Belarus, much owing to the unique editions compiled by Alexeev and Lukashevich. On gaining acquaintance with the masterpieces presented by Heritage, representatives of the British Museum made contact to suggest an exhibition of Belarusian cultural relics in London. Those from the West have been much interested in the heritage of our Eastern European country — no less than in old Egyptian or antique rarities. Alexander and Oleg often muse on their country’s place in the world. We need to advance, finding new features to place Belarus at an advantage. “What does Belarus symbolise?” ponders Lukashevich, “I bought a copy of Countries of the World encyclopaedia in Paris; an article on Belarus was illustrated with a picture of Polesie marsh. I was embarrassed!” I hope that Parisian publishers will be shamed into presenting Belarus in a different fashion now they’ve seen our Heritage books. Even Polesie has its

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Golden accessories of Belarusian beauties of the XII century

own Versailles, Eiffel Tower and Louvre — as confirmed by photos of Alexeev and Lukashevich. Belarus has untold treasures, although many remain hidden and much work is needed to unearth them. Others are kept at museums, although not all are on show; some languish in archives. Alexeev and Lukashevich have, for the first time, managed to show some of these treasures to the public — at least on the pages of their albums.

Warm words and glazed shots

The authors regard the Belarusian word ‘spadchyna’ (heritage) with reverence, “For us, this word unites all that our ancestors have left us — their legacy of themselves and their civilisation. A separate album is to be released, dedicated to each segment of Belarusian culture. Our goal is to show Belarus’ worth from different angles. Our forthcoming plans include the publishing of albums about frescos (decorating churches since the 11th century onwards) and the legacy of the Radziwills — known as the uncrowned kings of our homeland. In addition, wooden buildings and, of course, rare books are worthy of attention.” The project by Alexeev and Lukashevich has been widely recognised, with people ready to pay a great deal for their book. In 2004, it cost $30; now, it fetches $50 This chalice (communion cup) made by a German jeweler in the city of Augsburg at the beginning of the XVIII century now decores one of Belarusian catherdrals

— not cheap for Belarusians. However, it is a worthwhile acquisition. The authors have been awarded the ‘For Spiritual Revival’ Presidential Award and have received a Frantsisk Skorina Diploma from the Information Ministry. Oleg and Alexander recall that their nomination for the ‘For Spiritual Revival’ Award was proposed by the Metropolitan of Minsk and Slutsk, the Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus Filaret, “We came to His Grace to present him with an album and he opened the book on a page showing a photo of the Minsk Mother of God icon. He touched it with his lips, as if it was a true icon. This was high praise for us. Several minutes later, His Grace unexpectedly pronounced, “Why shouldn’t we nominate Belarus’ Heritage for the award?””

Time to gather stones

“Belarus has witnessed many wars,” notes Alexeev. “It was robbed by foreign invaders and many treasures were lost. Our people have faced so many ordeals and, for a long time, were unable to admire their homeland’s beauty. It’s now time to ‘gather stones’ and, believe me, there are many precious stones among the ordinary boulders which form our national heritage.” Alexeev and Lukashevich continue searching, finding new facets of our Belarusian identity. In the time of the Radziwills, Italy’s best architects were invited to Belarus to create wondrous palaces. Meanwhile, Skorina was the first in Europe to publish the Bible in Belarusian. We’ll soon be able to view unique artefacts on the pages of the new albums. Will these folios influence the perception of Belarus around the world? The authors are sure that the process has already b egun. Fol low ne w issues of B elar us’ Heritage on TV and at bookstores! By Viktar Korbut

Society

Peace and tolerance are characteristic features Overwhelming majority of Belarusian citizens believe country has no national or religious tension. Belarusian society is free from ethnic and confessional prejudice while Belarusians are tolerant of other nations and religions

Discrimination-free

For several years, sociologists have noted the stability of public opinion on such issues as ethnic and confessional relations. A recent sociological poll, conducted by the Information and Analytical Centre under the Presidential Administration, confirms the trend. Research leaves no doubt that Belarus witnesses no tension on national or religious grounds. The overwhelming majority of Belarusians are convinced that their rights and freedoms are realised to the full, irrespective of their ethnic or religious belonging. Over 80 percent of respondents believe Belarus lacks national, language or religious discrimination. Moreover, lack of ethnic oppression is stressed by Belarusians (76 percent), Russians (73 percent), Poles (88 percent) and Ukrainians (80 percent).

We are Belarusians...

Religious tolerance is noted by Orthodox believers (82 percent) and Catholics (83 percent). Only a few respondents believe their rights are infringed: on a religious basis — 3 percent, language — 4 percent, and national — 5 percent. Meanwhile, less than 5 percent think that national or religious related conflicts may emerge in Belarus in the coming years. According to experts, the results of this research reflect the socio-cultural unity of Belarusian society. About 80 percent of those questioned view themselves as Orthodox believers. Almost the same number say they are Belarusians.

Vitaliy Gil

Comparison is essential

In comparison, the Russian Public Opinion Research Centre’s poll shows that Muscovites are much more worried about inter-ethnic relations; 50 percent of respondents in the Russian capital view inter-ethnic relations as tense. Russians demonstrate a lower level of ethnic tolerance (in comparison to Belarusians) and just 55 percent of Russian residents proclaim no dislike for other nationalities. By Yevgenia Kononova

2010 беларусь.belarus

Belta

Tourism routes

Travelling to Zamkovaya Hill

Gomel Rumyantsev-Paskevich Palace boats a variety of historic exhibits

Region’ covers all four tourist zones: Gomel-Vetka, Polesie-Turov, Zhlobin and Chechersk. Tourists travelling along the 400km+ route have much to admire. In Gomel, they are likely to be impressed by 18th19th century Rumyantsev-Paskevich Palace, with its unique estate. From this regional centre, the route takes holiday makers to Vetka and its Folk Art Museum — known far beyond Belarus. The museum showcases a rich collection of handwritten and black-letter books (from the 16th century onwards), as well as traditional and Old Believer Orthodox icons, weaving and samovars. In Chechersk, the Town Hall and the 17th century Church of the Transfiguration of Our Lord are stunning, while the village of Krasny Bereg (in the Zhlobin district) boasts a magnificent palace and park estate from the 19th century. Travellers can visit Belarus’ only memorial complex dedicated to the child victims of war and the Chernobyl catastrophe — unveiled in 2007. Rechitsa is one of the oldest Belarusian cities, situated along the River Dnieper. The right-hand side of its river bank boasts a 13th century citadel and the city is home to the Neo-Gothic Roman Catholic Church of the Holy Trinity (early 20th century)

For more than a hundred years two temples of different confessions have been neighbouring at the Central square in Rechitsa — Svyatouspensky Cathedral built in 1872 and Rechitsa Holy Trinity Cathedral built 30 years later

Tourist route embraces unique historical sites and is a calling card of the Gomel region

he tourist route — developed five years ago — encompasses Gomel, Vetka, Chechersk, Krasny Bereg, Rechitsa, Loyev, Mozyr, Yurovichi and Turov. The ‘Golden Ring of the Gomel

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— which has a large tower on its main façade, crowned with a spire. Turov’s Zamkovaya (Castle) Hill and Pripyatsky National Park are major tourist sites in the Zhitkovichi district. Legend says that, in years gone by, Turov had 75 churches; the city was called ‘a second Jerusalem’. Tourists can visit the early 19th century All Saints’ Church and ancient St. Boris and Hleb’s cemetery, where a miraculous cross grows from the soil. The monument to Belarusian thinker and writer Kirill Turovsky is also worth seeing. The route also takes travellers to our ‘Belarusian Switzerland’ — Mozyr — where they can see a Roman Catholic church and the 17th century Bernardine Monastery. Polesskaya Veda Museum and wonderful St. Michael’s Cathedral are also notable. A visit to the Church Historical-Archaeological Museum — established by the Turov Eparchy in 2009 — is interesting. It showcases over 120 handwritten and old books, icons, church plates, canonicals and other artefacts from south-western Polesie, in the Gomel region. The village of Yurovichi in the Kalinkovichi district — the oldest settlement in the country — and picturesque Loyev (dating from the 15th century and home to the Battle for the Dnieper Museum) are worth visiting. The ‘Golden Ring of the Gomel Region’ route also includes the ski complex in Mozyr and an aqua-park in Zhlobin. According to the Gomel Regional Executive Committee’s Culture Department, 105 tourist routes function in the region. Sixteen were launched last year and the cultural-historical potential of the area is inspiring the development of excursion tourism. Already, about 30 museums are operational in the Gomel region, welcoming over 400,000 visitors annually. There are about 3,000 culturalhistorical sites, including 1,360 relating to culture and history, 156 monuments of architecture, 392 to prominent cultural and scientific figures and 397 archaeological sites. By Natalia Titushkina

Belta

routes Tourisme

Travellers attracted by marshes Polesie develops ecological tourism

“S

porovsky Reserve in the Brest region, Yelnya in the Vitebsk region and Lipichanskaya Pushcha in the Grodno region are attractive tourist zones,” asserts Natalia Minchenko, the Head of Biological and Landscape Diversity Department at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection. “These are seeing increasing numbers of foreigners each year: both tourists and wetland specialists.” Ornithologists, who observe birds while ‘armed’ with expensive equipment, are among the largest group of visitors. The Republican Sporovsky Biological Reserve — one of Europe’s biggest — enjoys great popularity. It boasts a unique lowland marsh, where the Red Book can be visually studied. It is home to sandpipers, aquatic warblers, waterlilies and water soldiers. “Last year, around 700 guests visited us, including 37 foreigners from the Czech Republic, Germany and Poland,” notes the Reserve’s Director, Vladimir Protasevich. The number is modest but Sporovsky is only one of many such destinations. If we sail along the Yaselda River, some 100km to the east, we find ourselves in ‘Polesie Venice’ — the authentic village of Kudrichi,

located on seven islands among marshes. When rare guests arrive, local authorities can feel rather ashamed of their simple, wooden thatched-roof houses. Those keen on active sports can go to the north of Belarus. A couple of years ago, 240km of waterways opened to the public in the Rossony district — famous for its cascade of 192 lakes. Ten lakes and two rivers allow tourists to choose their route via cruise boat or canoe. Sadly, only a few groups have shown interest. Local authorities complain of lack of infrastructure and poor advertising. However, work is underway to attract potential tourists and investors. “In 2009, our lakes were visited by around 2,000 people,” explains Oksana Potapova, the Head of the Rossony District Executive Committee’s Department for Sports and Tourism. “These are official figures, but we don’t take into account holidaymakers who travel independently.” Undoubtedly, European eco-tourism could be a niche occupied by our country. Of course, in developing our infrastructure, we must be careful that we don’t spoil the very beauty that tourists are eager to experience. By Dmitry Ampilov

2010 беларусь.belarus

Tourism

Chasing luck Belarusian forests are gaining popularity among foreign hunters, with about 4,000 visiting last year

egarding the number of foreign hunters, our country is ranked third in Europe — behind Russia and Hungary. Those from Italy, Germany, France, Poland, Russia, Sweden and Finland are keen on coming to Belarus — but what attracts them?

In twilight of coverts

Many animals live in our Belarusian forests — a natural attraction for hunters. In the past five years, the population of wild boar, roe, elk and deer has grown. In 2008, our forests were inhabited by almost 19,000 elk, about 8,000 red deer, 59,000 roe and 56,000 wild boar.

Belarus’ Deputy Forestry Minister, Nikolay Yushkevich, believes growing numbers are the result of the 2006-2015 state programme for hunting development. Lodges have been intentionally creating watering holes for animals, as well as special feeders, towers and hides. They’ve also organised biotechnical events, jointly with scientists. There is no doubt that animal diversity will continue expanding; meanwhile, the population of roe and boar is annually increasing by 15-20 percent. Red deer are now found all over Belarus. In four years, new populations of this animal have been created in eight hunting forests. Additionally, fallow deer have been introduced into our forests. Over a hundred years ago, they were common in Belarus but later almost disappeared, due to irrational forestry management. At present, they are bred at Lepel, Ostrovets and Dyatlovo forestries. As animals rise in number, hunting is more likely to prove successful. In Belarus, 22 mammals and 31 birds are allowed to be hunted. In the past five years, profits generated A small hunting house provides for a good rest

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by the Forestry Ministry have grown almost five-fold — owing to foreign hunting tourism.

Valuable trophies

Deer horns, boar tusks, stuffed wood grouse and black grouse are greatly valued all over the globe. Foreign hunters arrive in Belarus for these trophies since many of our animals differ from their European ‘brothers’. Boar, deer, elk and roe are smaller in size in Western Europe while Belarusian trophies are often highly praised at international exhibitions. Moreover, some are rare in Europe — such as wood grouse and black grouse. Hunting wood grouse is viewed as an elite occupation while elk can only be hunted in Poland and Belarus. Foreigners are ready to pay good money for such trophies — 5-6kg elk horns cost 580 euros, while those heavier than 6kg cost 830 euros. Deer horns cost from several hundred to several thousand euros, depending on their quality. Aurochs are, of course, the most interesting animal for foreign hunters. However, only those which are ill or injured are allowed to be shot — up to a dozen each year. Even so, the cost of such a trophy can reach 10,000 euros.

Fireplaces, fishing and museums

Foreign interest in Belarusian hunting forests has led to the development of necessary infrastructure. About a hundred hunting lodges are operational in the country, with half owned by the Forestry Ministry. Dozens are revamped every year, improving their facilities. In 2010, another four are being built, with two others reconstructed.

Belta

Tourism

60 hunting lodges are now ready to welcome guests, offering hot water, toilets, kitchens, gun safes, parking, banyas and open-air cages for dogs, as well as braziers, boats and bicycles. According to Mr. Yushkevich, hunting itself brings only 15-17 of the revenue for such sites. Developed infrastructure (with a package of services) is responsible for the lion’s share of earnings. An average foreign hunter comes to Belarus for 5-7 days, spending 70-110 euros on food and accommodation daily. However, they can spend even more if further options for leisure are offered. There are six exemplary hunting lodges in Belarus. Belynichi lodge is never empty. It is situated near a lake, with furnace heating, cold and hot water, a fireplace, a kitchen, a bathroom, a TV set and Internet access, as well as a banya, a brazier and a summerhouse sleeping 10-16. A shooting range is available, with hunting of elk, roe, deer, boar, otters, beavers, wood grouse and black grouse permitted. Molodechno lodge offers a tennis court and a swimming pool, besides an

open-air cage housing dappled deer, wild boar, roe, ostriches, pheasants and raccoons. Families are welcome, with unforgettable memories promised for children and adults alike. Ostrovets offers excursions to Roman Catholic churches and the Gippika equestrian centre, as well as an ecological hike around the Sorochansky lakes, trips to a private museum of stuffed animals and birds and fishing on the River Vilia. Even the most demanding tourists are sure to be impressed. Importantly, stays are possible all year round, even when the hunting season is closed.

No off-season for forests

Most hunting stops in Belarusian forests for about six weeks — from February to mid-March — but undesirable foxes and wolves are still game. In late March, spring hunting for birds opens — initially goose and then black grouse. On May 15th, hunting for wild boar responsible for damaging crops begins and guests

begin to arrive in earnest, including those from abroad. New regulations (already under development) are planned for this season, according to Mr. Yushkevich. Procedures for foreign hunters’ entry into Belarus are being simplified, with visitors encouraged to rent rifles rather than bringing them with them. This should make Belarus even more attractive. Hunting is successfully developing but the Forestry Ministry stresses that much work still lies ahead. We lack specialists in hunting tourism to conduct market research, organise advertising and promotion and aid the entry of hunters. Rising profits from hunting tourism will inspire breeding programmes for animals but special fences will be needed to keep them within bounds, as will safe passage across roads on their migration paths. This will surely be costly but will yield returns. The Belarusian Forestry Ministry is set to solve these tasks very soon. By Lilia Khlystun

2010 беларусь.belarus

Past and present

Magic of ancient walls Ancient architectural sites in small Belarusian towns attract tourists

storey building on the hill, belonging to the Bernardine Mon a s t e r y in the 19th

The romantic story associated with the Bernardine Monastery is fascinating for tourists

tunics tied with woollen belts in three knots, they were known for their severity and austerity. They taught local boys theology, philosophy and the sciences while conducting church services. The construction of their wooden monastery in Dubrovno began back in 1624, when the town was owned by Yuri Glebovich. By the late 18th century, ownership had transferred to Duke Ksawery Lubomirski, who welcomed the cream of society to his home. However, he was a tyrannical ruler; only his love for his beautiful daughter Klementina softened his heart. During one of his trips to St. Petersburg, Klementina decided to organise a ball, at which she met tall and handsome landowner Piotr Kroer. She fell in love, unaware that he had long planned her seduction. They danced all evening and were married the next day by the Bernardine monk. The pair then took all the cash in the palace and escaped to neighbouring Mogilev. The rage of the du ke was terrible. Several days later, fishermen Aloizas Yunevich

fter the Great Patriotic War, few historical buildings remained in Dubrovno — a district centre in the Vitebsk region. Entering the town from Orsha, you can’t help but notice a deserted re dbr ick t wo-

century. Today, it boasts new windows and a repaired roof. Belarus is working hard to restore its ancient palaces a n d e s t at e s , bre at h i n g ne w life into archite ctural treasures. The former Bernardine Monastery in Dubrovno is no exception and a local history museum is to open here after restoration. Plenty of exhibits have b e e n g at he re d i n readiness, while the many mysterious and romantic stories connected with the monastery are sure to attract the attention of tourists. The Bernardine monks app e ared in t he Grand Duchy of Lithuania (including the territory of Belarus) in the early 17th century. Wearing brown

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Past and present found the bodies of two monks in the River Dnieper — one had been responsible for performing the marriage ceremony. At dawn the next day, the monastery was ablaze, soon razed to the ground. It was years later before it was re-built… At various times, the building housed a school, municipal ser vices and military and sport organisations. Restoration works have recently begun, with the aim of opening a local history museum inside. “In the mid1990s, archaeologists from the Academy of Sciences of Belarus conducted digs here,” recollects Yekaterina Labuko, the Head of Dubrovno’s District Cultural Department. “They found tiles, ancient containers and decorations, proving that Dubrovno is an ancient town with an interesting history.” A working group was founded, aiming to create the museum. Over 13,000 exhibits have been collected so far; the third floor of the district house of culture can hardly accommodate them. “In one of the rooms, we have a temporary exhibition for schoolchildren while the remaining rooms are full of exhibits,” explains the Director of the working group, Tatiana Maracheva. “This mammoth bone was found in a nearby pit, while this harmonica was donated to us by Vladimir Prusov, who helped liberate the Dubrovno district during the Great Patriotic War. He was carrying it when he entered Berlin.” Exhibits include bones of pre-historic animals,

medieval metal bracelets, arrowheads, a unique collection of homespun rushniks and picturesque paintings by amateur artists. If there were more room, the number of exhibits might be even greater. “The ‘Varangians to the Greeks’ route passed along t he R iver Dniep er and we know that Napoleon travelled through our town — along the Yekaterinensky Tr a c t i n 1 8 1 2 ,” n o t e s Sv e t l a n a Ry z h a n s k ay a , the Deputy Chair of t he D ubrov no D ist r i c t Executive Committee. “A wonderful trans-border route — from Orsha to Dubrovno and Smolensk — could be developed. Meanwhile, participants of t h e D n i e p e r Voi c e s International S ong and Music Festival — an annual event in our town — will be glad to visit the museum. In addition, relatives of Red Army soldiers buried at Rylenki memorial are sure to come, alongside veterans, who traditionally gather in Dubrovno on Victory Day.” Funds have already been allocated to pay for the reconstruction of the Bernardine Monastery, as part of an investment programme in the Vitebsk region. By late 2011, it should be complete; in 2-3 years, tourists keen to learn more about Belarus will be able to visit the museum in Dubrovno, gaining closer acquaintance with the history of the ancient town. They’ll be able to wander the corridors of the former monastery, musing on its intriguing, sad yet romantic history… By Sergey Golesnik

New passport for the city Coins found in Polotsk are half a century older than previously believed

our fragments of dir khems — 9th century Ar abi an c oi ns — have changed our knowledge of our oldest city — the 2010 cultural capital of Belarus. The finding was made last year by a junior research associate of the National Academy of Sciences’ History Institute, Pavel Kenko, who discovered the coin fragments at a depth of several metres, on a site bearing the scorch marks of fire, occurred over 1,000 years ago. At the end of the first millennium, Arabian merchants were actively trading in Eastern Europe, including on the territory of modern Belarus. Dirkhems w e r e a n i nt e r n at i o n a l currency — like today’s dollars and euros. It’s thought that the fire may have been lit during an invasion of the city — as was common in the past. The coins must have been dropped (or buried). In 2012, Polotsk is celebrating its 1150th birthday. Although the jubilee will be on a large scale, it is likely to be rather conventional. The coin fragments have changed previously held beliefs on the age of the city, which is first mentioned in the Russian legendary Tale of Bygone Years — referring to 862. However, until recently, no artefacts had been found

to confirm or reject this date. “In reality, it appears that the city is older than its ‘passport’ age; it existed in the early 9th century,” explains Marat Klimov, who heads the History Museum’s archaeological expedition studying Polotsk. Mr. Klimov tells us that the dirkhems were discovered last summer during archaeological digs on the site of the old citadel (the original centre of the city). The coins were damaged and, for a long time, it was impossible to date them. However, specialists from St. Petersburg offered their help and numismatist Svyatoslav Kuleshov (an employee of the Hermitage) decided they had been minted from 800 to 825. “The coins show that Polotsk is several decades older than we formerly believed from chronicles,” notes Mr. Klimov. By Viktar Korbut

2010 беларусь.belarus

Cities

Atlantis at mouth of Disna River Smallest town in the country has lived wonderful life for a thousand years, half way along the ancient ‘from the Varangians to the Greeks’ route

he town of Disna is the smallest in Belarus — being home to ju st 2,600 people. It is located in a picturesque location, where two rivers merge — the Zapadnaya Dvina and the Disna, in the Vitebsk region’s Miory district. “Disna’s budget is smaller than that of the average household in Stockholm,” Swedish journalists once joked. Swedish guests tend to visit this rural area more than Minsk, for two reasons. In ancient times, Disna was founded by these Swedes’ forefathers — the Varangians, or Vikings. They built a fortress on the island, at mouth of the River Disna. Secondly, Swedish tourists visit as part of the international DvinaDaugava project,

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which unites the trans-border regions of Scandinavia, the Baltic States and Belarus.

Cruising the waves of time

The town has been attracting foreign tourists since times when some Belarusian regions had never seen a visitor from abroad, when the word ‘tourist’ seemed more appropriate in talking about distant countries in the south, rather than Belarus. The uniqueness of Disna is that it is uniquely ‘Lilliputian’. The spirit of past times has been preserved, with many streets are still paved in 19th century cobbles. Old buildings and churches — constructed in the times of tsars and kings — remain. Interestingly, five hundred years ago, t he town was an important destination on the

map and was indicated on geographical plans alongside neighbouring Polotsk and Daugavpils (Dinaburg). Since then, Disna has been given its own emblem — a boat sailing on Disna’s waves.

Test of endurance

Disna has an enviable fate although it may seem strange at first sight. Before WWII, 10,000 people lived here; after the war, less than a thousand survived. It seemed that the town would follow Atlantis’ fate and disappear forever. Naturally, settlements with such small populations are viewed as villages. What is their future? Villages are always at risk of disappearing but Disna was lucky — its status as a city settlement was preserved. Several decades later, it faced another test of endurance — a rebirth. In the 1980s, Daugavpils was to gain a hydro-electric station, at the expense of several villages being flooded by the Dvina — including Disna. Citizens prepared to evacuate but, at the last minute, the plan was abolished. For

Cities (preferring the town to Minsk or Polotsk). The Chair of Disna’s City Executive C ommittee, Olga Moroz, of ten guides tour groups over the wooden, centur y-old bridge and through streets dating from the 16th century.

Forest-tundra in the centre of Europe

the second time in its history, Disna avoided the fate of Atlantis. The city stretches for nine kilometres along the rivers of Dvina and Disna (from which it gains its name). Its wonderful park is a tourist meeting place, where excursions around the town begin.

Decorating a blank spot

Several years ago, Swedish, Latvian and Belarusian artists drew dozens of pictures simultaneously on a huge canvas, at an international tourist exhibition in Swedish Gothenburg. They said, “We are adorning a blank spot on the map of history.” This is how remote Swedes came to discover Belarusian Disna, where people celebrate Apple and Honey Saviour, brew true ale and sell delicious butter at the local market. Of course, it took time to make everything beautiful and tasty. In the 1990s, when local industrial enterprises fell into decay, original residents elaborated a strategy of sustainable development for the area until

2 0 2 0 — over a two year period — with tourism taking a major role. Their theory was: ‘We don’t have industrial production or a railway but we boast rich history, beautiful nature and hospitable people. Our only path to revival is through tourism, with ‘Disna is the Smallest Belarusian Town’ being our brand’. The Disna district is now actively promoting itself at exhibitions and festivals. Swedish tourist organisations are taking notice and have opened an information centre

Disna’s outskirts are akin to the primeval Belovezhskaya Pushcha. The remains of a post-glacier forest-tundra are now the Yelna Hydrological Reserve. Its dwarf birches and cloudberry bushes are the only ones of their kind at this latitude. This is almost the geographical centre of Europe. Another Hydrological Reserve — Boloto Mokh — is known for its rich harvests of cranberries, bilberries and cowberries. Its rare animals include the black stork, serpent eagle, golden-eye and loon, alongside various rare plants. Polotsk is the cultural capital of Belarus for 2010 so, having begun a tour in Disna, it makes sense to further continue along the Dvina. Such trips are wonderful in the summer months. After Polotsk, travellers can visit Vitebsk — known for its famous international Slavonic Bazaar song festival. There is so much to see and do, with plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation. You can learn something new and discover the wonderful treasures of Belarusian nature and culture. By Viktar Korbut

Expert opinion Olga Moroz, Chair of Disna’s City Executive Committee: Disna’s tourist development strategy is one of the first of its kind, elaborated after the National Strategy of Belarus’ Sustainable Development until 2020 was adopted. Disna and its outskirts boast huge potential, with their historical-cultural legacy, tourist accommodation and favourable ecological conditions. Even local residents are surprised by the unique holidays celebrated in the area, such as the Odigitria Procession, on August 10th, and Apple Saviour Day, on August 19th. Interesting local history museums exist in many of the schools, showcasing exhibitions which would be the envy of some in Minsk. Sunfish, eel, catfish and crayfish live in the Disna and Dvina, while the area is also rich in springs known for their healing powers. It’s said that, if you wash with water from the spring of St. Yan (at Yazna Village Council), you’ll remain healthy for the whole year!

2010 беларусь.belarus

Life

Lucky fate of Masako Tatsumi Belarus has been home to Japanese Masako for the past 15 years

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Nobody wanted to make friends with us, so there was no language practice,” she recollects sadly. “Moreover, the living conditions were awful!” Masako returned to Japan but her goal remained and, in 1995, she enrolled as a student at the Belarusian State University’s courses for foreigners. At that time, she was the only Japanese student at any Belarusian higher educational establishment — unlike the Chinese, who come in large numbers. “Belarus impressed me, being clean and beautiful. Meanwhile, the people were friendly,” she recollects. “Soon, I acquired acquaintances and, even, friends.” Petite framed and exotically beautiful, Masako also conquered the heart of Stepan Bugaichuk, of Belarus. Their wedding followed Belarusian traditions, with the bride’s parents arriving from her remote homeland. They were pleased with their daughter’s choice and, several years later, a daughter was born, called Yue — unusual for Belarus. In Japanese ‘yu’ means ‘a person who unites Japan and Belarus’ and ‘e’ stands for ‘impetus, activity and accumulation of life experience’. Little Yue became a symbol of unity of both cultures as well

as representing the peak of love between her parents’ hearts: a big and courageous Belarusian heart and a small, delicate Japanese heart… In 1996, Masako, being curious and used to taking the initiative, began to teach Japanese at the BSU’s Department for International Relations. Her course was very popular but she sometimes lacked enough original Japanese literature. Masako-san didn’t lose heart; she wrote to a Japanese newspaper, asking for their help in sending books and dictionaries. “We’d been working thoroughly on literature, but I felt I could do more. I wanted Belarusians to learn more about my homeland and its culture,” Masako explains. She dreamt of setting up an Information Centre of Japanese Culture and, in 1999, finally felt ready. On September 9th, when C h r y s ant he mu m Day is celebrated

Exhibitions “I translated some songs into Russian, then Ales Kamotsky translated them into Belarusian,” Masako explains. “Dmitry Voityushkevich made the arrangement and we donated discs to musical schools and libraries.” Additionally, the Information Centre organises weekly classes for those wanting to learn Japanese; people of all ages attend. From time to time, Masako organises Japanese style festivities, inviting pupils from various schools. During these meetings, she shows the children aspects of Japanese culture, such as the ancient tea ceremony. Masako Tatsumi is satisfied with her life. If she could turn back time, she wouldn’t change anything. She is involved in her favourite occupation, which brings her pleasure and joy. She has a wonderful husband and little Yue is an enduring delight. In her free time, Masako cooks Japanese dishes for her family and goes to church. “After marrying, I became Christian. I’m delighted with Belarusian churches and their beauty. When my parents or friends visit me, I always bring them to the church.” Belarus has become a second home for Masako Tatsumi and she is confident that this is the best life she could choose for herself.

Talents and fans Major contemporary painting exhibition taking place countrywide

“T

By Tatiana Danilushkina

Aloizas Yunevich

in Japan, the Information Centre of Japanese Culture opened in Minsk. Masako has been performing charity works for 11 years now, supported by the Japanese Chiro Foundation alongside sponsors from Belarus and Japan. She brings in medicine and medical equipment for children’s clinics and hospitals. Her desire to promote Japanese culture has been successful, with hundreds of Japanese books for children translated into Belarusian and donated to libraries. Several musical projects have been jointly implemented with Belarusian musicians — such as the Moon and Sun project, which features Japanese folk songs sung in Belarusian.

his year, we plan to organise Belarus’ largest ever pictorial art exhibition for modern fine arts,” explains Belarus’ Culture Minister, Pavel Latushko. Speaking at the National Art Museum, he noted that the project will span October and November, starting at Minsk’s National Art Museum, Palace of Arts and Modern Fine Arts Museum before touring countrywide. The organisers also invite every private art gallery in the capital to join the event. Leading museums in regional centres are being approached, Mr. Latushko tells us. “The idea is that pictures by Vitebsk artists travel to Brest and then to Gomel. Such exchange events will last two months, enabling us to view and understand Belarus’ modern pictorial art.” If the project is a success, in early 2011, a comprehensive exhibition will be organised at the National Art Museum. Moreover, a similar republican exhibition of Belarus’ contemporary monumental arts is scheduled for next year. By Yekaterina Nechaeva

2010 беларусь.belarus

Opera

Major projects of the Bolshoi Theatre Prompt  Another’s Wealth Can’t Serve

Anyone opera, created at Karol Radziwiłł’s Nesvizh Castle by his chapel-master Jan Holland over 200 years ago, wasn’t staged in the 20th century, since the notes were considered to be completely lost. Only in the late 1990s did historians make a sensational discovery at a Krakow museum, finding ancient opera scores by German composer Holland, written in Nesvizh. Much time was needed to reconstruct the authentic scores of Another’s Wealth Can’t Serve Anyone; however, the current generation can see the performance on stage, performed by young B e l a r u s i a n o p e ra s o l o i s t s.

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Belta

National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre expands its repertoire and organises first summer opera festival

A scene from the opera “Another’s Wealth Can’t Serve Anyone”

ccording to the theatre’s Deputy Director G e n e r a l , Va l e r y Gedroits, the project is scheduled for June in Nesvizh. Jan Holland’s opera Another’s Wealth Can’t Serve Anyone is to be staged in the courtyard of Nesvizh Castle, where it premiered 250 years ago. The programme of the festival includes a gala-concert, featuring Belarusian opera singers. Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony #5 is among those pieces being performed. Like many other countries, Belarus is celebrating the 200th anniversary of the birth of Frédéric Chopin. Guests will be able to enjoy the Les Sylphides (Chopiniana) ballet and Chopin’s piano concerto for orchestra. The Nesvizh Town Hall’s big hall will host a chamber music concert. In late 2010, the theatre plans to implement another major project

— the 1st Christmas International Op era Festival. Two B elar usian performances — Carmen and Nabucco — are included on the international programme. The Latvian National Opera, the Novaya Opera Theatre of Moscow and other foreign theatres are expected to take part. Masterpieces of World Classics, by the Walls of Ancient Sophia is a regular event in Polotsk each summer. This year, it shall also be organised at Belarus’ cultural capital. Moreover, the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre is to perform in Holland in spring, with its Bohemia, moving to Estonian Pärnu in summer to perform Alexander Borodin’s Prince Igor and to give a gala-concert featuring the best Belarusian soloists. The ballet company also plans to take La Bayadère to Egypt in April. Negotiations being currently underway with Germany, Spain, Cyprus, South Korea and China for future tours.

Sergey Kortes, the famous Belarusian composer, studied music in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

from Russia, and, in fact, his Russian family boasts noble roots, from the St. Petersburg intelligentsia. He spent the first 20 years of his life in Argentina, studying music in Buenos Aires. In 1947, his family requested Soviet citizenship, allowing them to return to their homeland in 1955. They were sent to Minsk, where Mr. Kortes entered the Belarusian Conservatoire’s Composing Department. His teachers were prominent Anatoly Bogatyrev a n d Ni k o l ay A l a d ov. L at e r, h e completed his postgraduate studies to join the musical ‘temple of fame’. Sergey Kortes’ birthday evening took place at the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre, where he worked for over 10 years: first as its director and then as its operatic artistic head. His Jubilee opera will be performed, dedicated to his birthday, alongside The Bear (both based on Chekhov’s works). They originally premiered at famous Pokrovsky’s Moscow State Academic Chamber Music Theatre in December 2009.

Large-scale presentation Belarus continues to familiarise countries of the world with its national culture

By Zhanna Kotlyarova

Artur Prupas

he National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre hosted a jubilee evening, celebrating the work of People’s Artiste of Belarus, legendary Belarusian composer Sergey Kortes, who celebrates his 75th birthday. Mr. Kortes has written five operas, as well as instrumental, vocal and symphonic cycles based on the verses of Yevgeny Yevtushenko, Yanka Kupala, Maxim Tank, García Lorca, Nicolás Guillén and Jacques Lenoir. He’s also written music for plays staged at the Kupala, Kolas, Russian, Youth and Young Spectators’ theatres. He has even written the scores to such films as I’ll Take Your Pain and The Black Castle of Olshany. Mr. Kortes stands alongside giants like Alfred Schnittke, Edison Denisov, Giya Kancheli, Yevgeny Glebov, Boris Tishchenko and S ergey Slonimsky in terms of his international musical status. His personal and professional biography is unique. His father is Chilean and Mr. Kor tes was born i n C h i l e . Hi s mother’s family emigrated there in 1920,

Campaign

n 2010, the Year of Belarusian Culture in the Russian Federation will be a major event, starting in March and finishing in November. It responds to a major Russian culture presentation in Belarus in 2009. Additionally, Belarus plans to prepare cultural events in Lithuania, Armenia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Hungary, with Belarusian artistic groups touring Vietnam and China. The Days of Belarusian Culture abroad is the biggest international cooperative event of the year. In 2009, alongside a cultural programme, the Year of Belarus in Moscow included events dedicated to trade, education and media, as well as days promoting opportunities and offerings from the Belarusian regions and the city of Minsk. Events promoting foreign culture are always popular in Belarus. In spring, Days of Syrian Culture will arrive. Last year, Minsk also hosted Days of Chinese Culture, dedicated to the 60th anniversary of China’s foundation, as well as Days of Israel, Kazakhstan and St. Petersburg. By Zhanna Kotlyarova

2010 беларусь.belarus

Theatre actors

Charm enhancing mastership

Alexander Ruzhechka

Sergey Zhuravel is known countrywide as an artist of theatre and cinema. He works at the State Youth Theatre and, as soon as he begins to speak — on the street or in a supermarket — people immediately recognise his voice. It’s heard daily on Minsk’s popular STV television channel. Recently, he shot in Andrey Kudinenko’s Massacre, by Belarusfilm Cinema Studio

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eople in theatrical environment can’t but admire him and, in the many years of our acquaintance, I’ve only heard good opinions. At first, he worked for the Young Spectators’ Theatre, where he was sent after graduating from the Theatre and Art Institute (now, the Belarusian Academy of Arts) and later — for the Youth Theatre. If often happens that, when buying tickets at the box office before a show, audiences ask whether Zhuravel is performing. It’s difficult to imagine the Youth Theatre without this actor. Undoubtedly, there are other talented performers in the company, but Zhuravel is very special. He has natural charm, which strengthens all other skills and accentuates his acting technique. Zhuravel often plays complex characters who aim to bewilder or provoke the audience while also arousing sympathy and fondness. We are supposed to ponder their motivation. Think of the character of Pierre in Francis Veber’s Le Diner De Cons (staged by N. Pinigin). It’s no surprise that Zhuravel, possessing powerful energy, makes us hold our breath as he enters the stage. As a final year student at the Acting Department, he was invited by the Young Spectators’ Theatre to play the role of Serezha Tyulenin in Young Guard — a performance about young undergrounders during WWII. He appeared on stage before children and teenagers (notoriously difficult to inspire). The humming hall became silent, with chatter and laughter disappearing. Their peer stood before them: a cheerful and noisy boy, who lived a heroic life and died during the war. Zhuravel didn’t just enter the stage; he flew out, hardly touching the floor, moved and sang wonderfully. As soon as he took up his guitar, it seemed that he was born in harmony with the instrument. His enchanting voice, perfect diction and fluidity moved everyone. In the mid-1970s, theatrical critics forecast a brilliant future for this young actor. It came true and he received the title of Honoured Artiste of Belarus. His roles included Salvador Dali, Scapin, Demon

actors Theatree Taibele and Tartuffe. He worked with various stage directors, with different approaches, resulting in a great ability to transform. This has always been and remains an indicator of theatrical professionalism. I’ve often met up with Zhuravel at premieres, on World Theatre Day or on someone’s birthday. Recently, we met at a birthday celebration for a geologist who won the Lenin Komsomol of Belarus Prize in the 1970s (a high award at that time, given to young specialists for various achievements in science, literature and arts). Mr. Zhuravel was awarded this for his role of Bambi in a performance by the same name, based on Felix Salten’s play. …The festive evening was in full swing, with numerous toasts, flowers and music. Geologists are known to be cheerful and witty. Famous academician Anatoly Makhnach (who was also awarded this prestigious prize) is known in scientific circles as a poet, besides being a scientist. Mr. Zhuravel was welcomed with acclamations — some recognising the artist while others were seeing him in person for the first time. A festive table can easily take on a life of its own, accompanied by the buzz of people’s voices. However, Zhuravel caught everybody’s attention. Zhuravel stood, paused for a while, played a few chords on his guitar, congratulated the hero of the evening and began to sing… Today, Mr. Zhuravel is a guest of our column, telling us about his life on stage and off and about his creative process, revealing his personality. Do your acting skills help you in life? If I want to draw attention to myself, my acting mastery undoubtedly helps me. However, some natural features, like charm, also come into the equation. In my youth, I was small and thin — not a smart man or a hero. I was often told that I wouldn’t be able to become an actor and that I wouldn’t even be allowed to enter the Theatre and Art Institute. However, I’ve done it. Regardless of being on stage, I try to behave naturally, as if I’m playing myself.

How does an actor catch an audience’s attention? It’s a mystery. Messing said that he was hypnotising. Once, my son came to see the ‘Rainmaker’; afterwards, he went backstage and asked me: ‘How do you do it? You just stand silently, but I see that something is happening with you and with me…’. I often ask him the same question, especially when he repairs a kitchen tap or a motorcycle. For me, it’s mind-boggling that he can do this. Maybe this is why he studies stage engineering technology, rather than acting. I’m involved in my own business, where the ability to concentrate plays the major role. Some people are able to develop this ability more than others. It’s also important for an actor to flesh out a character; each has their own biography and life… Does each character require such ability and mastery? Absolutely. We gave a wonderful performance of ‘The Censor’, based on Japanese Koko Mitani’s ‘University of Laughs’. In two hours, the playwright describes the philosophical state of the protagonist. He is remote from the creative process, yet falls in love with it and begins to understand that it’s extremely interesting. I played the role of the censor, who is a former intelligence agent. Why does he, a soldier who organised terrorist attacks in Manchuria, become interested in a young boy who has written a play? I decided that he may have survived some tragedy — such as the death of his only son during the war. He treats everything relating to the military very seriously and can’t understand how a comedy can be written in wartime. In this way, I justified his strict attitude towards the comedy created by the young author. It helped me make the role multi-faceted, imagining the fate of the character. I believe this is an indispensable part of creating a role. How do stage directors assess a role? They may not like an actor’s interpretation of a character. They wouldn’t like it if I didn’t invent a fate for my character. Actors are dependant on their stage director, although they take

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Theatre actors the limelight. Co-operation is jointly creative; it’s a partnership. They say stage directors know everything but I dare to disagree. I’d say they experiment, but actors aren’t dolls — or pencils for the stage director to draw a plot. Moreover, each actor has their own perception of the play. The genius of a stage director lies in their ability to compromise with each actor. If they fail to find this compromise — with the actors and playwrights — the performance won’t be a success. In this case, my role will also fail. Who has censored your own life? Mostly myself. If I’m confident in the task set before me, I try to explain my position to the director, so they’ll change what doesn’t suit me. They say talented stage directors always expect enthusiasm and initiative from their actors? I’ve always worked with stage directors who are experts in their profession and can find a common language with actors. The Artistic Leader of our theatre, Modest Abramov, doesn’t stage performances; he works. People say that a stage director has staged a performance. Then what does the actor do? We joke about spectators — remote from the creative processes of actors and stage directors — who say: ‘the performance was good, but the actors were bad’ or ‘the actors were perfect but the performance was bad’. This cannot be, since everything works in harmony. Moreover, we must understand the profession and have knowledge of our occupation. I’m always pleased to see a professional — on stage or otherwise. I used to do all my house repairs myself and even plastered the walls

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of my summer cottage, although I failed to do it well. However, I didn’t dare repair the terrace; I called in a carpenter. It was a pleasure to watch him work; he was a true professional, a virtuoso. He could do with just two hacks of the axe what would take me an hour. Since then, I haven’t bothered to try car or house repairs. Is your devotion to cars well known among actors? Actually, I’m a fan of new cars. I have this passion not because I need additional adrenaline. It’s different. I sit in the car and my bad mood immediately lifts. My

car protects me. I’m often not sure what I’m doing but I acquire this confidence when I’m in the car. Once, I was driving from a film shoot in Lida [Grodno region — author] and the weather was terrible — an icy snowstorm. However, I was sure that my Toyota wouldn’t fail me. Are you making more films? In 2009, I shot in four pictures. However, I’m not a screen actor. Theatre is more intimate, more immediate and interesting; I hope I don’t offend my cinematographer friends. It’s pleasant to shoot a film, especially if the team is good — as was the case on Andrey Kudinenko’s ‘Massacre’. I liked him very much; he trusts actors and isn’t obtrusive in his comments.

Conditions were difficult, since it was 18 degrees Celsius, with ice. We were in a ramshackle castle, but the atmosphere was very warm. We also had a live bear, named Stepka, brought from Moscow. It was so tender and friendly and liked to be photographed. It sat near the animal trainer, waiting for its turn. It seemed that it liked to be patted and embraced. Does the film promise to be spectacular? I’ve read that it will be a mystical thriller.

Something of this kind, maybe, with elements of drama. I think that the film will be popular. It’s full of mystery and, even, terror. I play Duke Ostrovsky — one of the guests of the major character. How do you spend your time when you aren’t involved in theatre or cinema? I’m busy most days. However, I do find time for other occupations and feel great satisfaction at being master of my time. I understand that my mood greatly depends on this. When I have too much to do and many places to visit, I feel under pressure. I don’t like to be late and

actors Theatree business matters harass me. Therefore, I refuse invitations which make me feel pushed to the limit. This is why I left my job at Alpha Radio, although I’d worked there 19 years — since the foundation of this popular radio station. You bring various characters to the stage; do they penetrate your own personality? Of course. I can’t become another person — such as a doctor, who dedicates his life to medicine — without getting inside the role. If I hadn’t been an actor, I would never have understood what it’s like to be a

doctor. I played the chief doctor of a psychiatric hospital, Dr. Koch, in Alexander Yefremov’s film. However, it’s not the profession that’s vital but their thoughts and feelings. Theatre — like art — studies the human soul. This enriches me as an actor. I’ve been lucky to meet good stage directors using quality scripts. It’s pleasant to explore new acting aspects in yourself. Do you often become tired in roles? Sometimes. However, when you stand before an applauding audience and see the thankful faces of spectators, your tiredness disappears. The energy you give to the public is reflected back to you. At this moment, you experience overwhelming emotions.

Do you believe in luck? You’re a successful person. Are you satisfied with your life? From the point of view of my profession and career, I can’t grumble. Everything has gone well. I don’t believe in luck; you need to make good choices in life. Once, in Mannheim (Germany), our theatre took part in a festival. My colleagues came to my room and we decided to exchange impressions of trip. I began to move the bedside table from the b ed a n d f o u n d 500 Belgian francs lying on the floor. Mycolleagues said: ‘Zhuravel, you are lucky again’. It wasn’t luck. Simply, someone had lost money, which may have created problems for them. It may sound banal but I’ve always been lucky in meeting good people and professionals,

three times a week, advertising films or TV programmes. You must have favourite programmes. I like to watch TV from years ago, watching actors who were popular when I first began acting. I also enjoy programmes about animals; creatures are sincere. Several years ago, I picked up a dog from the street and called it Dusya. This mongrel is very smart and knows my mood perfectly. It doesn’t mind if I tell it that I need to work. As soon as I finish and think about the dog, it immediately comes up to me. It’s really a mystery to me how it understands people. Do you go to premieres at other theatres? If I have time. I’m also involved in non-repertory companies. One of the latest is ‘Woman and Clarinet’ — based on ‘The Lady and Her Men’, where I play one of the men. What do you think about in your free time? What brings you joy? What do you recollect? I like to recollect the past — such as our theatre’s trip to German Mannheim. We also travelled to Egypt, presenting the fairytales of One Thousand and One

In the mid-1979s, theatrical critics forecast a brilliant future for this young actor Zhuravel. It came true and he received the title of Honoured Artiste of Belarus. His roles included Salvador Dali, Scapin, Demon, Tartuffe… such as my first teacher, my teachers at the institutes and stage directors. When I was 22, I played Treplev in Chekhov’s ‘Seagull’. At that time, I wasn’t pleased with my interpretation of the role. However, it was a school of acting mastery… Is it pleasant for you to hear your own voice on STV television channel? I have no strong feelings, since this is my additional job. I’m on TV two or

Nights. We were heartily welcomed in Lyon with our ‘Les Fourberies de Scapin’. The French were keen to see how Belarusians interpret their national hero. Like all of us, I think about what is dear to me: about my mother, who is old; about my health; and about future work… I try to live in the moment, enjoying life as it unrolls. By Valentina Zhdanovich

2010 беларусь.belarus

Music

Tatiana’s day The Music Room programmes describe Tatiana Starchenko as having ‘the talent of a pianist-performer and the talent of an interlocutor in wonderful concorde’. Ms. Starchenko, a soloist with the Belarusian State Philharmonic, created the unique project (being its author, director, host and performer). The Belarusian capital’s musical life is enriched by this ‘philharmonic within a philharmonic’

cquiring a ticket isn’t easy, as each concert is a grand event gathering full houses. Journalists report these as top news but how is this wonderful harmony achieved? The Musical Room is celebrating its 10th jubilee and its artistic d i r e c t o r, p i a n i s t Tatiana Starchenko shares her views. Ta t i a n a , I’m a veteranfan, having been attending your Musical Room for the past ten years. However, like many other visitors, I’ve failed to penetrate the mystery of your talent — a virtuoso musician, artiste and interlocutor. You chat to your audience calmly and, just a minute later, are playing a grand piano. This is a new tradition for our Philharmonic, although Bernstein — a great conductor, composer and pianist — was known for having the same colloquial ability. He combined showmanship with musical professionalism… You’re right. I also talk about music, recite poems, play the piano and even dance — as I did in my recent ‘Beyond Tango’ concert. Why does no one else do this? It’s almost physically impossible! I need to ‘switch on’ various cerebral hemi-

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spheres a dozen times during a concert. However, my ‘chats’ with the audience are justifiable. I receive so many words of gratitude, tears and smiles. You are a leading soloist with the Belarusian State Philharmonic, giving solo concerts, performing jointly with ensembles, symphonic and chamber orchestras and recording CDs. Moreover, you’ve been supervising the unique Musical Room project for a decade… ‘Musical Room’ began the year of Pushkin’s 200th anniversary. We prepared our first programme and premiered it in Russia. Although many wonderful musical programmes were prepared that year, we received a hearty welcome from audiences. Nevertheless, it took me and my fellow musicians five years to prove that the ‘Room’ was worthy of continuing. It draws on the classical traditions of the 19th century, when music lovers gathered in the largest room of a house — the drawing-room — to play their musical instruments and recite poems. Such parties are described in Lev Tolstoy’s ‘Kreutzer Sonata’. I wanted to revive the atmosphere of those times, so I began my project in a similar way — giving concerts to a small number of people, at the Philharmonic rehearsal hall. I was the author, director and host of those evenings. Each concert was a unique suite consisting of several independent parts, united by a single artistic idea. Various performers participate in your concerts but there is an impression that all are like-minded friends. There’s no need for me to coerce musicians into participating, since they

Music have faith in the idea, based on many years of co-operation and success. Some musicians return regularly: flautist Yevgeny Vidanov, violinist Yekaterina Arkhipova, pianist Dasha Moroz, and violoncellist Natalia Malysheva. Additionally, we always play with my permanent director, Alla Volk, and my friends from the ‘Classic-Jazz Trio’ — Igor Avdeev and Victor Olshevsky. I trust them and they trust me. Our mutual love for music and for each other fills the stage and can’t help but be felt by the audience. True feelings always attract and inspire! Every month you update your programme, and see full houses. Audiences rapturously welcome you. They’re in love with you, Tatiana. From where do you draw inspiration? Honestly, I sometimes wonder at how many new ideas I have! To some extent, projects emerge from my interaction with talented people — also from reading good books, watching new theatrical performances and listening to new music. These miraculously transform in my consciousness and sometimes yield an interesting result. A range of unique, serious programmes have appeared in this way: ‘Bach on Christmas’ — concerts for 2, 3 and 4 pianos with orchestra; Isaac Schwartz’s author’s concert, including a premiere of his concert for the orchestra — ‘Yellow Stars’; mono-concerts of D. Shostakovich, V. Gavrilin, M. Glinka and M. Tariverdiev; and a premiere of a piano concert, with the Neiman orchestra. My admiration for Odessa jazz pianist Igor Kuznetsov (who is my friend) and jazz master Igor Bril unexpectedly inspired me to establish my ‘Classic-Jazz Trio’. I play piano, joined by Igor Avdeev (percussion) and Victor Olshevsky (contrabass). This is an absolutely new role for me and we love the band, as do our audiences. We play Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Debussy and Sati, playing with a fresh, modern manner. We do gather full houses for our concerts. When I studied my first scales, I discovered that a performer becomes a musician by falling in love with music.

It is this that brings success, rather than applause or the chance of appearing on stage. Everyone who performs in our ‘Room’ loves music and shares this love with the audience. If a musician is open to new discoveries and if they love music (rather than themselves and the idea of fame), they are ready to experiment. We have several types of concerts in our ‘Room’, including chamber (mostly instrumental) and festive (parties full of joy and light). I invite the best Belarusian artistes to take part and always feel happy on seeing that our country has such talented musicians. ‘Tatiana’s Day’ is already a tradition at our ‘Room’; we give

that much of the audience is listening to serious music for the first time. A year later, I can play music of any complexity to them. If I make myself a ‘guide’ to the world of great music, I must consider the journey carefully, including what to tell them before we begin playing. Times are changing, with the circle of classical music lovers ever expanding; this places new requirements on us, musicians. These days, you can watch or listen to a concert without leaving home, since we all have DVD and CD players. We, musicians must do our job with creativity, performing with dynamism and presenting new musical angles, to inspire even unsophisticated audiences. In this way, we hope they’ll choose to come to a concert to appreciate all the advantages of live classical music, rather than only listening to CDs. The g reat sceptic Nietzsche once said, “Life would be a mistake without music.” Tatiana, your life is full of music. Does it help? How does music influence life? If you start learning music from childhood, you are ‘vaccinated’ for your whole life — given the ability to appreciate it. You become part of a closed circle. Moreover, good music is always accompanied by drama and wonderful storytelling. You meet various people and communicate with them differently. This changes the quality of your life. Of course, you don’t need to be a professional musician to feel this way; you just need to love music and be a responsive listener. Many of my relatives and friends are such listeners — rather than professional musicians. Love music and your life will be brighter and more interesting — with fewer mistakes. I’d also like to add that it gives me great happiness not only to have a talent but to have the talent to be happy. Try to share your happiness with other people…

We, the musicians, have to perform in a creative, bright, fascinating and modern manner, so that even an unsophisticated viewer would like to attend the concert a concert devoted to pleasure. Another novelty is our ‘Musicians Joke’ — held on April 1st. I believe we are doing a unique job; no one else is like us in the country. This may be why all our concerts are accompanied by full houses and praise from audiences. Let’s talk about your audiences. Besides academic people, I’ve noticed that a great many schoolchildren and students usually attend — even though youngsters tend to prefer pop or rock to Rachmaninov, Brahms or Schnittke … I’ve given concerts at universities for several years. At present, I perform only at the Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radioelectronics, as it has a wonderful piano. When performing to first year students, I always consider beforehand how to compile my programme, taking into consideration

By Lyudmila Leonenko

2010 беларусь.belarus

Creative work

Verses in taxi Poet Yuri Borovitsky finds readers in unexpected places

t’s been some time since I’ve seen anyone present a poet with flowers and cry on hearing their verses. Usually, only music fans behave so passionately. Yuri Borovitsky isn’t as popular as other prominent masters. He only recently published his first collection of verse: I’m Praying to the Moon. However, he has been writing poetr y for many years, first in Belarusian and

now in Russian. He recently began to compose in German and also translates from all three languages. “Why have you decided to publish a collection of your works only now? It’s very modest in size, although it has a bright title,” I ask him. “To present ‘raw’ verses would be like driving under the influence of alcohol,” Mr. Borovitsky muses. He finds his admirers in taxis, in night clubs and, even, from incorrectly dialled telephone numbers.

He chats to people at bus stops, being interested in everyone. He writes about the most burning topics, with the themes of love and happiness recurring. He sees love as a synonym for happiness. Happiness is when a person has reached his or her dream. When did your poetic gift awaken? I wrote my first poem when I was just 11. I was in the fourth grade in the village of Prokopovka in the Gomel district. I still remember that poem:

My native village shakes my heart with a pliant wave, And the well near Svistok, that pleasingly screeches in the morning, Seems a fairytale to me, as does Rooster’s cocky crowing near the porch, And my soul sings, like a nightingale… What inspired you to finally publish your own book thirty years later? My friends asked me to. I personally didn’t attach much importance to the publication of my verses. I just wanted to write them. Now, having been published, it’s odd: I’ve acquired fans. Many readers admit to my verses helping them, so I’ve decided to continue writing them. Jointly with Natalia Novozhilova — a famous fitness specialist and poetess — I’m preparing a collection called ‘NYu’. The first letters of our names are taken as the title. However, our verses won’t be signed, so readers will have to guess who has written which. Poems should contain some mystery, to inspire contemplation and spiritual growth. Where do you find inspiration for your rhymes? My verses are inspired by meetings with interesting people, which take place

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daily. When I invent a new plot, I’m always thinking about a particular personality, as if I’m speaking to them. I imagine a live person even if I’m writing about nature. When do new verses come to you? I like to write in noisy places, when I’m watched by many people. Why don’t you ever take off your tinted glasses? When I’m involved in contemplation about poetry, I like to be watched by people, but I don’t like it when they look into my eyes. As soon as I stop writing, I immediately take off my glasses. I return from my poetic state to one of normality. Do you write on paper or scraps of napkins? On A4 format paper. Sometimes, I write on a paper napkin, but this is an exception. I always have a bag with me, containing paper. Additionally, I enjoy writing on the paper, which already has something printed or written on the reverse. How often do you write your poetry? Sometimes, I can write six verses in one day and, sometimes, none at all. It seldom happens that I don’t write. I usually invent good verses in one sitting. Sometimes, I come home and edit my writing. It often happens that I have to revise and correct my work to achieve the ideal. Presenting non-edited, ‘raw’ verses would be like driving under the influence of alcohol. A contemporary poet should use dictionaries, know languages and be aware of elementary PC skills. If a poet wrote about the Mona Lisa purely from having seen her once on TV, it would be impossible to be sincere. To reflect adoration of the Mona Lisa, you must at least find her portrait on the Internet. By Viktar Korbut

By the way  Yuri Borovitsky uses the

Internet to communicate with his readers. He’s published just 500 copies of his book, but fans old and new, in their thousands, can read his daily verses at stihi.ru.

Belta

Holiday

Summer begins with festival Grodno prepares for republican holiday

he organising committee has already begun preparations for the holiday, uniting representatives from various countries. At present, selection rounds are being held countrywide, with around 750 entrants to be chosen. The number of guests for this spectacular event is impossible to calculate. Official invitations have been sent to the 15 foreign cities with which Grodno enjoys twin-city relations. A working party, chaired by Grodno Mayor Boris Kozelkov, is surveying hotels’ readiness to welcome such a large number of guests. The launch of the Neman Hotel (after reconstruction), located in the city centre, should help solve the problem. City trade is preparing to offer a wide range of souvenirs for visitors, while

Spartak and Kommunarka confectionery firms are to fulfil special orders for sweets. Painters are working over press-printed products for the festival while public utility workers are to plant flowers for the event. Meanwhile, sites are being chosen to host national craft fairs and to house huge stages for the opening and closing ceremonies. Neman Stadium is the main contender, being the region’s largest sports arena after reconstruction. The major prize of the festival is being manufactured by Bereza Neman Glassworks: a symbolic flower in a delicate vase. Honoured guests will be awarded presents with storks — a symbol of Belarus. By Yelena Semenova

2010 беларусь.belarus

Contests

Fine young man Judo master Mikhail Baranov to represent Belarus at Mister World pageant

Belta

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eoul, the capital of South Korea, is hosting the M i s t e r Wor l d pageant. Belarus participates for the first time. Mikhail Baranov, 21, a Belarusian State University of Physical Education student represents the republic. “He meets traditional conceptions of male beauty, being tall (185cm), proportionally built, and with regular features,” notes National Beauty School Director Olga Serezhnikova. Baranov began modelling last year, taking to the catwalk for Minsk designer Ivan Aiplatov, during Moscow Fashion Week. He loves judo and stresses that sports are his main passion; modelling is just a passing hobby. How can a ‘real’ man become a model? What does this handsome Belarusian do in his everyday life? What’s expected from Misha in Seoul? Olga Serezhnikova, Mikhail Baranov and his father, also

Mikhail Baranov, share their thoughts…..

Man’s goal is to win

Ms. Serezhnikova: Until recently, my attitude towards male pageants was rather sceptical. However, last year, after watching the Mister World show, I changed my mind. I realised that male pageant participants don’t need to meet the strict parameters of female contests, though there are some limits as to height and age. Mister World candidates are classically handsome, fit and speak English. It hasn’t been easy to find that type of guy in Belarus. Unlike girls, who are numerous at the Beauty School, and are of different ages (from 12 years), there are only ten male models. Mikhail was the best choice. Another aspect that distinguishes Mister World from other beauty pageants is that candidates must have a serious sports background: the contest includes various

Contests physical challenges, including extreme sports — like rafting. This year, the organisers are planning a lot of competitions — tug-of-war, canoe racing and swimming. I’m confident of Mikhail’s endurance. Mr. Baranov: I believe my physical condition will allow me to participate in extreme trials. My father — an honoured master of sports, twice sambo champion and an Honoured Coach of the USSR and Belarus — has been teaching me for the past decade and more. Mr. Baranov-father: As a sportsman, I once warned my son: if you go into a competition, you should win and not just put in an appearance. Some say that beauty pageants aren’t manly but, if it’s called Mister and not Miss, it is a man’s business. I’m sure that my son is a worthy candidate for the title: he’s brave and ready to stand up for himself, for his girlfriend and for his country. Ms. Serezhnikova: In choosing Misha, we looked not just at his physical fitness, but at his appearance. He looks perfect for the competition. Last time, the winner was Spanish Juan García Postigo, whose looks are popular worldwide — although, to us, he appears very exotic. Mikhail isn’t a typical Belarusian in looks, having pale eyes and blond hair; he looks more like a southern man. However, our goal is not to show a typical Belarusian guy in Seoul, but to bring home victory.

How to stay fit

Mr. Baranov: I don’t take too much effort with keeping myself fit. I’m

grateful to my parents for my skin and appearance; it’s their good genes I’m blessed with. I’ve never needed cosmetic treatments or a change of diet, as I’m not disposed to put on weight. I like eating everything, including meat and sweets — my favourite is milk chocolate. I’ve never had a spa treatment but I enjoy saunas — as part of judo training.

Power doesn’t lie in beauty

Mr. Baranov: I’m often asked whether it’s difficult to be handsome. I’ve never attached particular importance to it and I don’t pay attention to girls, as I already have a girlfriend — she’s a gymnast. We’ve been dating for two years and she supports me in everything. In my view, man’s greatest qualities are his intellect, honesty and reliability — not his looks. A real man doesn’t need to be handsome. As the saying goes, he should look slightly prettier than a monkey. A real man should be smart, honest, kind, fair and reliable. Mr. Baranov-father: Mikhail has a quality not so popular today — decency. I know that the country, and I, won’t be let down.

Primary capital

With his desire to win, Mikhail is taking national souvenirs to Korea — linen handcrafts and wooden figures and crafts. Olga Serezhnikova is thinking of organising a Mister Belarus pageant. Upon his return, Baranov plans to graduate from the Physical Education

University and… to keep studying. He has grand plans: to receive a degree in tourism and to set up his own business — a chain of hotels. Perhaps, he’ll bring primary capital from Seoul: the winner will claim $50,000. However, he’ll need to beat rivals from 80 countries.

Aladdin from Baku

Another potential Mister World is also flying from Minsk to Seoul: Hafiz Agaev. He already has fans, who call him Aladdin. Hafiz was born in Baku and will represent Azerbaijan. He’s been working with the Sergey Nagorny Studio. Nagorny is convinced that Hafiz could win the title. In the Belarusian capital, Hafiz has been learning how to strut on the catwalk, while going to the gym and swimming pool. He’s been taking bartender courses, juggling bottles, and can eat with chopsticks. He’s also been studying English; Belarus is known for having a good foreign languages school. Sergey Nagorny noticed Hafiz in an advertising campaign and offered to work for him. “This lad draws glances. When I evaluate girls and guys for future contests, I look at how people react to their looks. People really like Hafiz. Moreover, he gets a huge reaction from girls in night clubs.” Hafiz, at the age of 23, decided to try modelling, gaining permission from his parents. Some traditional Azerbaijani families wouldn’t treat the idea seriously but Hafiz’s parents didn’t stand in his way. By Viktar Karafa

Taking on the role of a pioneer Belarus to take part in Eurovision Young Musicians 2010 for the first time

ellist Ivan Karizna is to become a pioneer, taking part in the 15th Eurovision Young Musicians 2010. People’s Artiste of Belarus Mikhail Kozinets, the Chairman of the jury and Head Conductor of the I. Zhinovich National Academic People’s Orchestra of Belarus, announced Ivan’s success recently. Iv a n t u r n e d 1 8 o n February 7th, and has beaten eight other young musicians to win the right of representing the country at the contest. Each performed two classical pieces. The Republican Musical College graduate (at the Belarusian State Academy of Music) is currently studying at the Paris National High Conservatory of Music and Dance. E u r o v i s i o n Yo u n g Musicians 2010 is organised every other year, by the European Broadcasting Union. In 2010, Vienna will host the 15th contest.

2010 беларусь.belarus

Vancouver-2010

Olympic medal’s face

Vadim Kondrashov

The recently ended Olympic Games have been the most successful in the history of Belarusian sports

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eeing off our sportsmen as they flew to Vancouver, we hoped that some would return home with medals, as they did in Salt Lake City, Turin and Nagano. We would hardly dare assume that three Belarusians would be successful. For the next four years, they will embody victory, inscribing Belarus forever in world sports history. Let’s recall those glorious moments.

3rd place. Darya Domracheva, biathlon Age: 23

“I

try to forget those incidents in Oberhof; the y are funny, indeed. Sometimes, in biathlon, you start shooting someone else’s target or take the wrong post. I managed to become a ‘hero’, making two errors two years in a row. This is in the past now; it may have even had a positive impact on me!” D ar ya D omrache va was perhaps the only person expected to bring home a Vancouver medal. Hopes were pinned on her from the moment of her return to native Minsk. In 2005, the biathlete — born in the Belarusian capital, but living in Siberian Nyagan for 15 years — took part in

Vancouver-2010 a Junior World Championship under the Belarusian flag for the first time, in the individual event. It was this same event, five years later, which brought Darya her first Olympic medal. Back in 2005, she could only dream of such victory. She missed five targets out of five during the third shooting round (a dioptre fell off her rifle) and, as a result, took 40th ranking. The Russians had long tried to persuade her to join their national

was not a defector, looking for a country where it was easier to gain entry to the main team. Rather, this multichampion of junior tournaments and prize holder at the European Junior Olympic Games had different plans. “Russian coaches were constantly approaching me, saying, “Dashya, come back, we’ll offer you a high salary; all your problems will be solved.” Why do I need their money? I want to compete for Belarus.” On 1st December 2006, Domracheva debuted in the World Cup as a Belarusian team member, having come second among Interesting facts: five Belarusian sportswomen.  Three years before the Domrachev family She was expected moved to Russian Nyagan, a Belarusian family to shoot to success living there, originally from Gomel, bore a but her path to the daughter, Maria. She was also destined to stir first Cup award — the sporting world, becoming a tennis star. Östersund 2009 — However, one year before the Domrachevs settled was rather crooked. in Siberia, the Sharapov family moved to Sochi… Food poisoning on the threshold of the biathlon team, 2007/2008 season messed up the entire w h e n s h e training process of this team leader. was living Meanwhile, German Magdalena Neuin Siberia ner — a colleague of the same age ( c o a c h e d whose name is constantly linked to the b y A l b e r t Belarusian rising star — kept winning Mu s i n a n d honours. “I was trying to stay calm as Victor Post- Neuner won,” explains Darya. “At least, nikov). Now I was pretending to. To be honest, from they under- time to time, I felt bad because I’m sto o d t h at ambitious. Even the knowledge that Darya my physical state was beyond my control didn’t help.” The 2008/2009 season saw her in the top ten regularly. The World Championship of 2008 gave her first medal as a mixed relay race member. The turning point of her career took place one year later in Swedish Östersund. Darya will also remember forever the previous qualification round in Oberhof. The amusing accident happened during the mass start, she was first to arrive at the shooting area and took a standing position, instead of prone. She recalls, “Everybody wanted to encourage me and I arrived like a wind-up toy.”

2010 беларусь.belarus

Vancouver-2010 Domracheva had always been oriented towards sprint distances but it was a long individual race with four shooting rounds which finally won her recognition. It was the same event which brought her Vancouver medal. “Frankly, I believe that my best chance is with short distances,” Darya said, glowing with happiness after the finish. “Before the Olympic Games, I managed to win only once at the World Cup round in Östersund and also in the ‘15’. Perhaps, it’s not a surprise anymore.” Having caught a cold, Domracheva couldn’t do her best in the mass start, but this wasn’t the end of her successes. Her main goal — Olympic gold — is yet to be obtained, so we are likely to hear about Darya’s victories in the future.

 Before Sergey Novikov, the last Belarusian who won an Olympic medal was Alexey Aidarov; in 1998, he took bronze in the individual race.  Sergey likes cars and often

relaxes with a car magazine. He drives a Mercedes. He likes saunas, playing billiards and listening to Russian rock.

Belta

2nd place: Sergey Novikov,

Interesting facts:

biathlon Age: 30

“S

o m e m ay t hi n k i t i s i m m o d e s t , b u t I ’m devoting this medal to myself. Even in words, I don’t want to share the prize I’ve struggled so long and so painfully to obtain.” Novikov’s silver was an unexpected surprise, as so frequently occur in our sports. Jakov Fak and Jay Vincent are newcomers whose names were rarely heard among the top ten until Vancouver. Novikov can now safely join this list of Fortune’s Favourites. Of course, his medal was no fluke. “I guarantee that, in Vancouver, Sergey Novikov will take a medal,” noted a letter sent to the Belarusian Biathlon Federation by famous Mogilev coach Anatoly Perepechkin, on the eve of the Olympiad. The words weren’t treated seriously but our attitude today is absolutely different… “Frankly, I thought Sergey would finish among the top ten, at best — no

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more,” confesses Valentin Fedorovich — his father and first coach. “My son is an experienced biathlete, having begun at the age of 7. At that time, I began taking him with me to sports camps to try roller skiing and, later, winter skiing. When he was 12, he could run more than 10km! His shooting was decent, despite him being no taller than a rifle; he could hit all his targets.” Once, Igor Klimenko came to Chausy, where Novikov was born and lived. He needed one more on the biathlon team, and was looking at the Mogilev Olympic Reserve School. Naturally, the vacant space was given to the talented, although still very young, Sergey Novikov… Before Vancouver, Sergey’s best achievement had been silver at the 2008 World Championship, in the mixed relay. He had been coupled with Darya Domracheva. Everybody joked about

the new programme, not believing that the results were promising and sustainable. The response was given in less than 2 years… Sergey kept six and eighth position during the 20km, only moving into third place after a third precise, but slow, shoot. “Having finished the third shoot, I dashed off with all my might,” recalls Novikov. “I literary flew up the first hill, and my strength began disappearing. I pushed ahead by recalling that this race was my big chance — the one I’d been struggling for my entire life.” Still, Novikov let Swedish EmilHegle Svendsen pass him, despite the penalty lap of his rival. Another Swede, already six time Olympic champion Ole Einar Bjoerndalen, struggled against him until the very last centimetres. Even the most accurate computers couldn’t decide who had come second, so they shared the honour. We all hope it won’t be the last time…

Vancouver-2010

“I’

team from a lack of victories. Dmitry Dashchinsky and Alexey Grishin accompanied young Kushnir, the winner

1st place: Alexey Grishin, freestyle Age: 30 of the small Crystal G l ob e, on t he s qu a d . A nt on Ku s h n i r w a s the favourite in Whistler but performed poorly in

Belta

m already being asked how I’m going to spend my $100,000 prize money but I haven’t decided yet. My wife and I would like to buy land in the city. Of course, if I’m given land as a gift, I’ll use the money to build a house.” No one doubted that Belarusian freestylers would return from Vancouver with a medal. For the past three years, they’ve been saving the Belarusian Olympic

Interesting facts:  His main rival for gold was Canadian Jeret Peterson. During his 28

years, he has lost his sister in a car accident, has been a victim of sexual violence, has won half a million dollars in blackjack, gone bankrupt, had two suicide attempts and has recovered from alcoholism. In 2006, the Canadian was thrown off the Olympic team heading for Turin because of his heavy drinking.  After gaining a bronze medal in Salt Lake City, Grishin had a tattoo inked

on his body in the form of the Olympic rings and a flying dragon. Upon returning from Vancouver, he wanted to add new ‘memorable’ depictions added to his ‘gallery’.

the qualification round and missed the final. The hopes of fans were dashed. Dashchinsky had won silver at Turin but Grishin had failed to win anything in a two year period, having hurt his knee, suffered a break and gained 15kg of excess weight. Twelve months ago, Grishin was out of the running. “It was a very difficult period,” remembers Alexey’s wife, Irina; like no one else, she has suffered his troubles alongside him. “Believe me, despite all our talk about finishing his sports career, Alexey never mentioned it himself. He is very stubborn.” He runs 10km daily, eats a diet consisting mainly of salads prepared by Irina and works hard at the gym. The start of this year’s season was no better than before but he knew that it was just a rehearsal… He seemed to understand that his main victories lay ahead, that his potential was far from realised. “Honestly, I didn’t follow our guys rankings,” recalls Alexey. “I only knew that Anton didn’t qualify. I tried to summon up strength to fight only with myself and this yielded the necessary result. I was last but one to jump (Canadian Kyle Nissen concluded). His was the only one that I watched. When he bent his knees in flight, I calmly thought — judging by everything, I’ll be first…” In the coming weeks, his schedule revolves around rest. Effort, nerves and poor health have dogged the four years dividing the most disappointing 4th place in Turin and gold in Vancouver. The future is unknown. “In sports, I’ve reached the ultimate goal,” reasons Grishin. “If I continue training, I’ll try to attain the same results in Sochi. Now, I’d like to spend time with my family and concentrate on having children.” By Dmitry Komashko

2010 беларусь.belarus

Project

Diploma for Belovezhskaya Pushcha Long-term plan elaborated to manage National Park

he plan primarily concentrates on the expansion of the reserved area, with special attention on restoring the hydrological regime (disturbed due to drainage reclamation). Preservation of the Pushcha as a forest and marsh is a major goal, with measures taken to protect and restore rare and precious species.

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“The plan has been highly praised by international experts,” explains the Head of the Ministry for Natural R e s o u r c e s a n d E nv i r o n m e n t a l Protection’s Department for Biological and Landscape Diversity, Natalia Minchenko. The Council of Europe’s expert group is to meet in March to discuss how best

to recover the Belovezhskaya Pushcha’s Diploma (awarded in 1997 but revoked for an absence of a management plan for the next decade). The Council of Europe Diploma is a prestigious award, marking the efforts of national parks and environmental reserves. It was given to the Belovezhskaya Pushcha for its great contribution to preserving the wild nature. The Belovezhskaya Pushcha is one of the world’s oldest reserves. In 1992, it joined UNESCO’s World Cultural and Natural Heritage List and, in 1993, became a biosphere reserve. In 1998, it became a key ornithological site of international importance. The Pushcha stretches for over 60km from north to south and from 10-50km from west to east. It occupies 163,505 hectares, with about 20 percent being a reserved zone, where human activity is banned. By Olga Belyavskaya