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Contents

Беларусь.Belarus Monthly magazine No. 7 (934), 2011 Published since 1930

3

Heartfelt holiday

8

Shares in Exchange for Investments In June, a major event occurred on the country’s financial market: Borisov Medical Preparations Plant, JSC conducted a first Initial Public Offering (IPO). It’s expected that other Belarusian companies will soon follow suit to attract capital

46 Reserve motif

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Major growth The rouble’s falling value

against foreign currencies is stimulating exports, including those of construction services.

Soon, Belarusian builders will be constructing a million square metres of housing abroad

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Region makes proposal How is Belaru-

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Microcircuits and great profits The

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sian Vitebsk helping Europe’s medical services?

Soon, the streets of Milan, Paris and other European states will welcome new ambulances reequipped in this Belarusian regional centre

34

notice the recent rapid development of mutual relations between Belarus and the Republic of Korea. Intensive economic dialogue is being observed, with civil contacts expanding and cultural interchange ever growing

Exam for teachers The academic year is

42

From Baltics to Baltika Where in the

finishing at Belarusian universities, with new students being enrolled — many of whom are coming from abroad

world is literacy taught in Belarusian?

Art of reconstruction The Yanka Kupala

National Academic Theatre has premiered The Abduction of Europe, or Ursula Radziwill’s Theatre, staged by its artistic leader, Nikolay Pinigin. After staging Wincent Dunin-Marcinkiewicz’s engaging Pinsk Gentry and serious Translations, by Ireland’s Brian Friel, which boasts similarities to 20th century Belarusian drama, the theatre decided to try a comedy

54

tic messages have recently appeared, saying that our foreign trade balance has begun to level out, even becoming positive

Editor: Viktor Kharkov 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 This magazine has been printed at “Belarusian House of Press” Publishing Office” UE. 79 Nezavisimosti Ave., Minsk, Belarus, 220013 Order No.1860 Total circulation — 1984 copies (including 783 in English).

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

examples of China, South Korea, Japan, Finland and other countries prove that the creation of a ‘smart’ economy — boasting a high share of high-tech science intensive products — yields no fewer dividends than trade in energy sources

Priorities of useful actions Optimis-

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

Korean ‘wave’ in Belarus It’s hard not to

38

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State Registration Certificate of mass medium No.8 dated March 2nd, 2009, issued by the Ministry of Information of the Republic of Belarus

Subscription index in Belpochta catalogue — 74977 For future foreign subscribers for ‘Belarus’ magazine, apply to ‘MK-Periodica’ agency.

Everything still lies ahead

E-mail: info@periodicals.ru Telephone in Minsk: +375 (17) 227-09-10.

© “Беларусь. Belarus”, 2011

2011 беларусь.belarus

From the editor

Symbols of memory and determination for the future

J

une 22nd and July 3rd are two dates located closely on the calendar. The first always reminds us of the beginning of the Great Patriotic War and the end of peace. Hitler’s Germany attacked the USSR and our Republic, situated on the western border of the huge country, was the first to feel death and destruction. This year, we celebrated a mournful date – the 70th anniversary of the beginning of that terrible war. It’s known that Belarus, as no other country in Europe, suffered the greatest losses in those years, with a third of our residents killed. Even now, 70 years after the war, researchers assert that some losses remain unregistered. We usually hear that the fascists destroyed 628 villages, together with their inhabitants, with 186 never restored. These terrible figures are commemorated at the Khatyn Memorial Complex in Belarus, but many more villages may have suffered the same fate.

Only now is new data coming to light.

In the 1980s, tragic statistics were revealed, according to which 9,200 villages were burnt, with over 5,000 losing their inhabitants to fire. It is clear that these figures require revision. New materials, previously unknown and changing our perception of the scale of genocide in that terrible war, are published in a book entitled The Tragedy of Belarusian Villages: 1941-1945. ‘Nobody is forgotten, nothing is forgotten’ remains a symbolic phrase uniting our mournful recollections; it is also a moral indicator for today’s younger generation.

July 3rd is also significant, being the date on which the country celebrates Independence Day – when Minsk was liberated from the Nazis. It is a symbol of national revival, embracing freedom as our most valuable possession. In the 1940s, our countrymen died for the idea of freedom,

беларусь.belarus 2011

defending our land from enemies, sacrificing themselves.

During the first hours and days of the war, the defenders of legendary Brest Fortress showed unrivalled heroism. The words ‘I’m Dying but I Don’t Surrender’, scratched into a fortress wall, symbolise the courage and self-sacrifice of those who struggled against our enemies.

Our present state independence and sovereignty is built on the foundations of that time, although life brings fresh challenges and events. Of course, the present is always connected to the past by many threads.

Several years ago, Minsk first hosted the Belarus International Media Forum. At the time, few believed that it would become a regular, revered event among journalists worldwide but the latest forum, which took place this June, dispelled all doubt. Around 100 masters of the pen, camera and microphone arrived in the Belarusian capital - from France, Germany, Poland, the USA, Italy and almost every former Soviet Union republic. The slogan was ‘Partnership for the Future: Patriotism, Spirituality, Unity’.

The event was organised against the background of two important historical dates: the 70th anniversary of the attack of fascist Germany upon the Soviet Union, which marked the beginning of the Great Patriotic War, and the 20th anniversary of the foundation of the Commonwealth of Independent States. These two events left their mark on discussions, which ran high among these ‘gurus’ of international journalism. Degree of Objectivity is dedicated to this topic.

This summer, representatives of leading domestic and foreign agrocompanies attended the 20th International Belagro-2011 Exhibition in Minsk. The event, traditionally held in the Belarusian capital, again attracted the attention of hundreds of participants, including those from abroad. Exposition of Harvest Field describes the fair in detail, alongside its integration business and partnership components.

This issue of the magazine is also dedicated to investment collaboration and education projects, alongside articles reflecting Belarus’ international ties and its diversity of cultural traditions. Of course, we’ll also tell you about our tourism opportunities. Our hearts and arms are always open to guests.

VIKTOR KHARKOV, editor of magazine “Беларусь. Belarus”

Belta

Independence Day

Heartfelt holiday On July 3rd, Belarus FESTIVELY celebrates Independence Day

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his major holiday of Belarusian statehood was declared in 1996 following a decree by the President of Belarus. It is a symbol of the state’s national revival and, by citizens’ will (as expressed at a national referendum), is celebrated on the day of Minsk’s liberation from the Nazi invaders in July 1944.

Celebrating Independence Day honours the heroism and determination of those Belarusian people whose unprecedented efforts restored the Republic from ruins, constructing factories, houses and schools and manufacturing the first produce at enterprises.

Festive concert programmes, exhibitions, contests and sports competitions took place countrywide, with a military parade being the major celebratory event in the capital. A theatrical, sporting and youth parade also took place, with a festive pop concert and a ‘Town of Craftsmen’ exhibition-fair. Performances by amateur talent groups and a children’s holiday completed the celebrations.

The President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, congratulated his fellow countrymen on Independence Day. ‘Following tradition, on July 3rd, we pay tribute to the valour and heroism of the frontline soldiers and the workers of the rear, partisans and resistance

fighters who liberated the Belarusian people. We honour the unrivalled feats of arms of Soviet soldiers while mourning the millions of those who perished in the name of the Great Victory. May they rest in eternal glory!’ reads his congratulation.

The Head of State underlined that descendants of those victors feel deep responsibility for the future of their Motherland, continuing the traditions of senior generations by preserving and building upon their achievements and by maintaining peace and security while consolidating the sovereignty of the Belarusian state.

Over past decades, independent Belarus has been revived by people’s creative efforts and now occupies a worthy place within the international community.

“I’m confident that, through unity and diligence, we can deal with any obstacles on our path towards a common goal - further prosperity of our dear Belarus,” emphasised Mr. Lukashenko.

The President urged his fellow countrymen to love their homeland sincerely and to believe in themselves and in the beautiful future of their country, while remaining healthy, to live in peace and prosperity.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Independence Day

Speaking on July 3rd, at the Independence Day Minsk Garrison’s military parade, Mr. Lukashenko noted that Belarus’ national security system is always ready to protect the constitutional foundations and sover-

Nazi invaders and independence for the Belarusian state.”

He noted that, today, we gratefully remember those who didn’t bow to the enemy, giving their lives for the Victory and immortalising their names. “The

 Despite the rain, which began in Minsk from early morning on July 3rd,

the Independence Day celebrations took place on a large scale, as in previous years.Around150,000peopletookpartasspectatorsandparticipantsinthe military and sporting-youth parades. As the soldiers marched by the Minsk — Hero-City Monument, followed by a column of heavy machinery, the rain stopped and the sun broke through the clouds. Belarusian planes then demonstrated aerobatic manoeuvres in the sky over the capital.

After the parade, Belarus’ Defence Minister, Lieutenant General Yuri Zhadobin, immediately shared his impressions, “I’m very pleased with the work of those representing the Armed Forces at the parade and those who prepared the vehicles.” The crowds of spectators were in good spirits, aiding the impressive and successful mood of this holiday of Belarusian statehood. eignty of the state. He stressed, “Our Belarus festively celebrates its major state holiday: Independence Day. This holiday unites the greatest and most sacred for all notions: liberation from the

беларусь.belarus 2011

deeds of these heroes will never fade with the passing of the centuries! We’ll bring to life their legacy - to love, take care of and protect our homeland - with honour, dignity and pride,” accentuated

the President. He stressed that people take pride in their army: the heir of Victory, a secure foothold and spiritual fortress of the country. The army is a faithful defender of creativity, serving as a school of courage for thousands of young Belarusians, many of whom took part in the parade.

Mr. Lukashenko stressed, “At present, there is no military threat to our country.

However, history, including the recent past, shows that we should always keep our powder dry. Peace and creativity should be reliably protected. We have what to defend: our native land, our glorious history, the unity of our nation, social justice and the spiritual values of people.”

According to the Head of State, the memory of millions of victims of World War II should force us to reject the use of force, choosing peaceful and positive methods to resolve conflict. “The intention today of certain circles to use force, political pressure and economic sanctions to promote their interests remains a constant source of tension,”

Belta

Independence Day

asserted Mr. Lukashenko. “Information intervention is escalating. Public opinion is manipulated without constraint.

Widespread defamation, including on an anonymous basis through the media, is taken for granted today. Powers make use of the weapon of mass information destruction against dissenting countries.”

According to Mr. Lukashenko, these methods aim to enforce dictatorship, impose political will and force nations towards a new world order. “This ‘new order’ (a sadly familiar notion) envisages the division of the world into the ‘gold billion’ and all the rest -- miserable and poor, without even a voting right,” he underlined.

“We survived the years of the Great Patriotic War, overcoming breakdown to create a beautiful and proud state on our land with our own hands. We’ve proven our right ‘to be called people’ and, as our classic-prophets dreamt, ‘we occupy our own worthy place among nations’,” said the President.

According to the Belarusian leader, our multi-directional foreign policy, based

on principles of mutual respect, equality and partnership, envisages comprehensive co-operation with Russia and the former Soviet Union states, alongside development of mutually beneficial relations with other unions and countries.

The Head of State underlined that our enduring priorities are the strengthening of national defence by developing the armed forces, the maintenance of a proper level of readiness of BelarusRussia regional troops and consistent strengthening of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO).

“Every Belarusian can be confident that the national security system is ever ready to protect the constitutional foundations and sovereignty of the state. It ensures a clear sky over our country and peace of mind for everyone,” assured Mr. Lukashenko.

Around 150,000 people watched and took part in the military parade and a sporting and youth parade to honour Independence Day in the centre of Minsk. The day finished with Belarus’ anthem being performed and a festive firework display.

 22.55. At this moment, dozens of thousands of voices countrywide

united, singing: ‘We, Belarusians, are peaceful people, sincerely caring for our native land, make faithful friends and drawing strength from hard-work and family’. All those who gathered in the centre of cities, towns and villages sang from their heart and soul. You don’t need to have an outstanding voice or ear to join in singing the traditional Let’s Sing the Anthem Together; you only need to love your country. Love for Belarus ‘conducted’ this huge choir, which embraced the voices of small children and great grandparents, businessmen and workers, teachers and athletes.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Media space

Degree of objectivity Several years ago, Minsk first hosted the Belarusian International Media Forum. At the time, few foresaw such meetings becoming both traditional and authoritative among journalists worldwide. This June’s event completely dispelled any doubt of its success

T

his year, the Belarusian capital was attended by almost a hundred photographers and journalists, from France, Germany, Poland, the USA, Israel and almost all the former Soviet republics. Held under the slogan ‘Partnership for the Future: Patriotism, Spirituality, Unity’, it was organised against the background of two significant historical dates: the 70th anniversary of fascist Germany’s attack on the Soviet Union (marking the beginning of the Great Patriotic War) and the 20th jubilee of the Commonwealth established. To a certain degree, these events affected the course of the discussion between international journalists.

“At present, the media does not merely reflect but quite often controls public opinion,” stressed Belarus’ Information Minister, Oleg Proleskovsky, speaking of the growing role of the printed media, television and radio at the Forum’s opening. “In this situation, we call upon journalists to adhere to a fair and socially responsible position.”

The first day of the Forum was primarily devoted to social issues, debated at the Summer School of Journalism (hosted by the Belarusian State University’s Institute of Journalism). Novice and already working journalists were interested to learn from more experienced colleagues about methods of modern journalism — its goals and tasks. Valery Ruzin, the President of the Eurasian Academy of

беларусь.belarus 2011

Television and Radio, held a master class dedicated to the social responsibility of television, while relations of culture and the media were tackled by the President of the Russian Arts and Culture Club, Nataly Golitsyna. The major trends in Polish journalism’s development were covered by the President of the European Centre for Geopolitical Analysis, Mateusz Piskarsky. The range of topics was broad and diverse. Mr. Proleskovsky expressed his hope that, in future, the Summer School of Journalism might be held as a separate event; pleasingly, the Institute of Journalism can certainly ensure that it is held at a worthy level.

The crown of the Media Forum was a plenary sitting focusing on the most important trends in society and civilisation in general — with some focus on international relations. Naturally, journalism holds a mirror to the world, so it should give an accurate and objective view. However, to achieve this, we must understand the hidden reasons for certain trends. Discussing them, Forum participants were extremely sincere, speaking of how the wealthiest nations treat the others and debating the threat of local conflicts and pseudo-revolutions. They discussed changes observed in the social-political structure of society and how the world is developing.

Interestingly, many noted their admiration for Belarus’ achievements.

The Russian Centre of Political Infrastructure General Director, Sergey

Mikheev, believes the global community could rid itself of permanent crises by shifting to the forgotten ‘convergent theory’, which was widely discussed in the 1960-1970s, focusing on uniting the advantages of socialism and capitalism.

“I don’t know whether the Belarusian leadership has a similar goal but it seems to me that something of the kind is taking place here,” he noted. “This may be occurring unwittingly and intuitively but it seems to me that there is an attempt to find an alternative to the generally recognised models.”

Forum participants, including foreign guests, support the ideas which sovereign Belarus has been attempting to realise throughout its new history.

The Head of the Belarusian President Administration, Vladimir Makei, stressed that, whatever public discontent may arise from economic, political and social processes in a certain country, no other state has the right to interfere in another’s domestic affairs.

He underlined that Belarus is fulfilling all its international obligations, actively battling transnational crimes, drug trafficking, illegal migration and other threats. The country has established constructive co-operation among various nationalities and confessions, with local media much contributing to the process. Meanwhile, setting aside objectivity can harm collaboration at a regional and international level.

By Vladimir Yakovlev

Panorama

Migrants treated with tolerance UNHCR Representative to Belarus, Sholeh Safavi, tells press conference that Belarus has become a safe haven for refugees

“T

he tolerance demonstrated by Belarusian society is essential for migrants and refugees, since it helps them start a new, decent life,” Ms. Safavi stressed. She thanked state bodies, as well as nonstate organisations, scientific establishments and the media for efficient partnership and true professionalism throughout all the stages of collaboration.

The UNHCR Representative Office opened in Belarus in July 1995, aiming to help Belarus fulfil its international obligations relating to the protection of refugees. In recent years, the UNHCR has invested $8.5m in refugee assistance projects, in addition to funds provided by the state.

“Taken the expansion of the European Union’s borders, the UNHCR is determined to strengthen the potential of the refuge institution in the context of mixed migration flow, creating an enabling environment for the integration of refugees,” Ms. Safavi explained. She notes that, amid the current political situation, the problem of major displacement of people is unlikely to ease. Belarus will be affected by this problem sooner or later. However, Ms. Safavi is convinced that the Belarusian authorities will be able to handle the increased inflow of asylum seekers.

Ms. Safavi expressed her hope that, being active in fighting human trafficking, Belarus will campaign for countries’ joining the Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness.

The UNHCR runs offices in 110 countries worldwide to help refugees regain their lives after being forced to leave their homeland. Ms. Safavi informs us that, in 2011, the UNHCR rolled out its ‘1’ campaign to increase awareness of the needs and problems of each forcibly displaced person.

 Unanimous desire to strengthen partnership Belarus included in Council of Europe’s Kyiv Initiative regional programme

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he Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers hosted the Yalta conference — ‘Kyiv Initiative’ and ‘Eastern Pa r t n e r s h i p’ — C o operation and Interaction — which closed with the signing of the Yalta Declaration. Conference participants unanimously agreed on the inclusion of Belarus into the Council of Europe’s Kyiv Initiative regionalprogrammeandexpressed a desire to strengthen partnership with the European Union in the field of culture (to protect the historical and cultural heritage of Kyiv Initiative member states).

 From Vitebsk to Nienburg Vitebsk visited by Henning Onkes, Mayor of German twin city

M

r. Onkes’ visit, which took place as part of the city’s birthday celebrations, wasn’t only of festive character. During business negotiations with the Chairman of Vitebsk’s City Executive Committee, Victor Nikolaikin, the results of our 20 year co-operation were summarised. Moreover, new areas of economic, cultural and educational contact, beneficial to both sides, were outlined.

The ‘bridge of friendship’ laid by the International Contact Centre of Nienburg and Vitebsk’s International Youth Tourism Bureau today allows schoolchil-

The regional programme was launched in 2006 during a meeting of the Council of Europe’s culture ministers in Bucharest. Project organisers are Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine and one of the programme’s goals is to assist sustainable cultural, social and economic development through multilateral co-operation and a cross-sectoral approach in matters of culture and cultural heritage.

Theprogrammeisnamed Kyiv Initiative, having been agreed in the Ukrainian capital in 2005. It brings together the activities of the Council of Europe in the region, while focusing on the results of the already implemented projects such as legislative reform, improving the protection of historic sites and cooperation between cities to develop cultural tourism. dren and students to exchange visits. They are followed by representatives of political parties and public organisations, trade union figures and clergymen, athletes, artists, doctors and rescue services. Our German friends have donated priceless treasures to the Marc Chagall Museum.

Additionally, since 2003, a project has been implemented on experience sharing between doctors from our two countries, with partnership ties established between educational establishments.

E c on om i c c ont a c t s a re also significant. Over the first four months of 2011, foreign trade turnover between Vitebsk and Germany totalled $25m.

Enterprises from the Dvina River area successfully export their produceabroad.Soon,thetwocities will acquire new trading liaisons.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Market

Shares in Exchange for Investments In June, a major event occurred on the country’s financial market: Borisov Medical Preparations Plant, JSC conducted a First Initial Public Offering (IPO). It’s expected that other Belarusian companies will soon follow suit to attract capital

A

ccording to the Finance Ministr y, IPO options were fixed in Belarusian legislation in 2007, finally finding fruition this June, when the first shares were being openly sold via the Exchange.

Speaking of why Borisov’s Medical Preparations Plant, JSC has pioneered the move in Belarus, Belbiopharm Concern (overseeing the company) states: the Borisov plant is quite a large factory but smaller than BelAZ or Minsk Automobile Plant, for example, making it easier to conduct an IPO. T h e He a d o f B e l b i o p h a r m’s Department for Legal and Analytical Work, Sergey Kazakevich, notes, “The present economic situation shows that it’s unrealistic to expect state pharmaceutical companies to develop without external investment.” He stresses that loans are currently expensive, with bank rates reaching 30 percent and more. “Our producers have reached a place where it’s no longer economically feasible to take out loans; attracting investments via privatisation and sale of shares is a reasonable and globally acknowledged approach,” he adds.

In all, 15 percent of the company’s shares were on sale — estimated at Br59.7bn (about $12m). It is planned that funds will be spent on financing

беларусь.belarus 2011

a major investment project: the establishment of a new facility to produce tablet form drugs. “Additionally, an IPO promotes knowledge of a company and allows us to see how far the Belarusian pharmaceutical industry is interesting to investors,” comments Mr. Kazakevich.

Economist Georgy Grits believes the Belarusian pharmaceutical branch

London Stock Exchange — since it allows a shorter timescale and is less expense. He explains, “Firstly, we need to develop our own stock market, offering shares to our citizens and national investors. Secondly, taking assets to the London or Frankfurt exchanges would require a year or two, costing us several million dollars.

This is reasonable if IPO covers large

IPO could help Borisov Medical Preparations Plant and other Belarusian factories attract strategic investors will attract foreign partners, being fast growing, with a large share of innovations. Moreover, Borisov Medical Preparations Plant, JSC is now among the top three leading suppliers of medicines to the Belarusian market, also exporting to Russia and other CIS states.

Tactics and strategy

Brostok has acted as an investment agent, organising the IPO. Its Director, Valery Postovsky, tells us that shares are being placed on Belarus’ Currency and Stock Exchange rather than a global venue — such as the

assets reaching hundreds of millions or even a billion dollars — such as would be true of Belarusian oil refineries. Borisov Medical Preparations Plant only requires a moderate sum of $12m, attracted in a short period of time, to finance an investment project already being realised.”

Borisov Medical Preparations Plant hopes that IPO will help solve tactical and strategic tasks. Its General Director, Alexander Fando, plans to attract a strategic investor; already, a large Chinese company is interested in becoming a buyer, alongside investors from the UK and Russia. Meanwhile,

Market

Investors would find it attractive here

the Borisov plant views the IPO as a necessary intermediary stage to raise its market attractiveness. Besides attracting additional funds, the move promotes a positive image for the plant. “It’s not yet possible to assert that our Borisov plant is working under the same standards as Western public companies, but it is advancing, with certain success evident,” stresses Mr. Postovsky.

Mr. Fando points out that, being a joint stock company, Borisov Medical Preparations Plant was fully state owned before the IPO. However, when a company has 100 percent of its shares owned by the state, it strikes a warning note for investors, who are used to seeing joint stock companies with a share of private capital. This is another reason for the plant to join the IPO. Economist Georg y Grits also believes that an IPO could help Borisov Medical Preparations Plant and other Belarusian factories attract strategic investors. “The fact that our enterprises are mastering a new instrument of financing is good. However, selling

assets on an exchange — even to a large number of buyers — only attracts money and enhances a company’s image. A strategic investor will bring new technologies, knowledge and management efficiency, in addition to money. Belarusian enterprises need this now,” he emphasises.

Rehearsal before international debut

The Finance Ministry believes that the successful open sale of shares on the Belarusian Exchange will not only enhance the company’s attractiveness for strategic investors but, as the Securities Department says, will provide ‘a good rehearsal for entry to foreign IPO’. It adds that ‘judging by the activation of the exchange market on the whole, other Belarusian companies are expected to use IPO soon’.

Deputy Economy Minister Dmitry Golukhov notes, “We could enter the IPO path at a good professional level but the initiative should come not only from ‘above’ but from ‘below’ — from companies them-

selves. Taking into consideration the present state of Belarusian and international markets, I can say that these processes will continue developing over the coming year or two.”

Speaking of Belarusian companies’ joining foreign exchanges, he notes that banks and international financial institutions of fering exp erience and globally recognised names are expected to play an important role.

Co-operation between Deutsche Bank and the Belarusian Automobile Plant (BelAZ) is a good example of such interaction. The Belarusian plant produces dump trucks, bulldozers, traction evacuators and heavy duty dump trucks for metallurgical production, being among the top global concerns manufacturing quarry machinery. It oversees a third of the quarry trucks market and began preparation for IPO, aided

by Deutsche Bank, in late 2010. The Industry Ministry hopes to see it ready within 12-18 months. It is planned that a minority package of shares shall be placed, through an additional emission. BelAZ’s debut IPO aims to attract foreign currency to further finance modernisation. Additionally, the Industry Ministry believes that the placement of shares of this major Belarusian company will help ‘position Belarus on foreign capital markets, while integrating its corporate sector into the global economy’.

It is supposed that BelAZ shares will be placed at Deutsche Borse, in Frankfurt am Maine. The Head of Deutsche Bank’s Russian Office, Joerg Bongartz, views BelAZ’s prospects positively and believes that other Belarusian companies could similarly attract finances on international exchanges.

Deutsche Bank is ready to organise IPO and render consultations.

It is expected that, by late 2011, several Belarusian companies will have conducted IPO on the Belarusian Exchange, while the first foreign IPO is planned for early 2012.

By Vitaly Vladimirov

2011 беларусь.belarus

Agroforum

Exposition of harvest field Minsk gathers leading domestic and foreign agro-industrial companies for 21st time

T

he International Belagro-2011 Exhi-bition attracted the attention of 370 participants f rom 1 6 c ou nt r i e s — including Austria, Germany, Denmark, Spain, Latvia, Lithuania, Russia, Poland, Ukraine, France and the Czech Republic.

Machinery and technologies from these and other countries occupied two demonstrational grounds: the Football Manege in Minsk’s Pobediteley Avenue and Gastellovskoe Field, near Minsk. The forum allowed the latest international experience in agricultural machine building to be shared, with focus on growing ecologically friendly food and eco-technologies. A broad business programme accompanied the exhibition, being rich in seminars, talks and consultations on various aspects of the agro-industrial complex’s development.

“Belarus’ agro-industrial complex is among the leading branches of the national economy, ensuring food security for the country,” noted Belarus’ Deputy Prime Minister, Valery Ivanov, at the Belagro-2011 official launch. “Its major goal for the coming five years is to enhance production efficiency and competitiveness, while ensuring better labour productivity via modernisation of technology.”

10

беларусь.belarus 2011

Bread business

Belarus occupies first place in the CIS for food production per capita and is establishing itself confidently on the global food market. The major Belarusian agrarian exports comprise dairy and meat products, in addition to vegetables — especially potatoes.

According to the Agriculture and Food Minister, Mikhail Rusy, in the first four months of the year, exports reached $1.1bn (up 23 percent on 2010). Despite neighbouring Russia being the main consumer, dozens of other states have joined the geography of our supplies. For the second year, powdered milk deliveries to Venezuela have e nj oye d maj or c ont r a c t s .

Meanwhile, in total, 17 countries buy Belarusian dairy products.

The country has set an ambitious task for the coming five years: to raise exports of agro-industrial products from today’s $2bn to $7bn. Of course, modern technologies and advanced machinery are vital. After the USSR’s collapse, Belarusian villagers could not afford to buy machinery from global producers; in the early 1990s, the first Belagro fairs occupied small sites, featuring just a few participants. Now, At the Belagro-2011 agricultural machinery exhibition

world famous machinery operates on our farms and global manufacturers are showing increasing interest in the Belarusian market. Belagro has become an efficient venue for signing serious contracts and, last year alone, hundreds of agreements were concluded.

Many Belagro-2011 participants are already well known

Agroforum

Matter of technology

Belarusian enterprises and firms accounted for 70 percent of Belagro2011 participants, with most large scale expositions belonging to the Industry Ministry, the Agriculture and Food Ministry and Belptitseprom. About

two decades ago, the country produced only tractors but, now, manufactures up to 90 percent of all equipment and machinery needed by farmers.

Scientists from Belarus’ National Academy of Sciences account for the development of about 80 percent of all models. Its five scientific-practical Agrarian Science Department stands — on land arable farming, food, cattle breeding, potato and vegetable growing and agricultural mechanisation — attracted huge interest among forum guests and participants. They occupied the site of Gastellovskoe, JSC and brightly demonstrated the latest technologies.

The Agricultural Mechanisation Centre took part under the slogan of ‘Innovations are the Path to Development and Quality is the Pledge of Success’; it featured many new machines, including those to plough soil and sow flax and drop watering equipment using an automated management system.

Additionally, the Centre is working hard to develop complex mechanisation of the technological processes of cattle and poultry breeding.

“A country’s agricultural development could hardly exist without the implementation of new scientific developments, modern technologies, machinery and mechanisms,” stresses the Deputy Agriculture Minister of Lithuania, Edvardas Raugalas.

“Sci-tech progress drives forward advancement. I’ve been visiting the exhibition for several years, paying attention to new developments by your scientists, machine builders and scientificpractical centres. Today’s prototypes will be in mass production tomorrow. This confirms high efficiency of your developments; these are successfully introduced into production.”

Industrial enterprises also demonstrated their latest designs, with Minsk Tractor Plant (MTZ) showcasing its new vehicle for the first time. In a single ploughing, Vitaliy Gil

in Belarus. Among them is 70 year old Agrimatco-96, which boasts modern machinery for almost every conceivable situation — from soil preparation and sowing to harvesting and processing.

German LTV also took part; its highly efficient ‘Case’ and ‘New Holland’ machinery has operated on Belarusian fields for several years. Another regular participant of the fair is German Stotz Agro-Service, with its wide range of tractors, grain harvesters and modern milking units. French companies are also eager to liaise with Belarusian villagers. They had a separate stand at the show, showing their processing equipment. They are even keen to collaborate in cattle breeding.

soil is turned, seeded and fertilised, saving fuel and labour; it’s a true gift to farmers.

The Head of the Design Bureau at MTZ’s Experimental Designs Department, Vasily Gnedchik, is convinced that it won’t be difficult to meet the harvesting schedule, using this machine.

Production Association Gomselmash — a leader in combine harvesters — is likely to please villagers as well, with its ‘Palesse’ grain harvester, designed to suit European crops. It can mill up to 16kg of grain per second and is a great asset to farms harvesting at least 50 centners of grain per hectare.

According to the Agriculture and Food Minister, Mikhail Rusy, the country’s machinery and tractors have been significantly updated in recent years but further modernisation is needed. Technology marches on, with the novelties of yesteryear now outdated. With this in mind, a new programme is in place for the coming five years, aiming to equip farms with contemporary machinery.

It envisages wide possibilities, with leasing as an option.

Belarusian agricultural machinery is arousing increasing interest among buyers from abroad. “We’re interested in co-operation with Belarus, planning to purchase your combines and tractors, in addition to a range of corresponding aggregates,” notes the Head of the Agriculture and Processing Industry Department of Krasnodar Krai, Sergey Garkusha.

Speaking at Belagro-2011, he explained that Krasnodar Krai (featuring a large exposition of 40 companies at the fair) plans to offer credit to farms buying Belarusian machinery. Meanwhile, Altay Krai (also attending the exhibition) plans to set up joint ventures to produce Gomselmash agricultural machinery.

These examples perfectly demonstrate that Belarusian agricultural machinery boasts huge export potential, being able to compete on the international market.

By Lilia Kharitonova

2011 беларусь.belarus

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Experiment

Major growth The Rouble’s falling value against foreign currencies is stimulating exports, including those of construction services. Soon, Belarusian builders will be constructing a million square metres of housing abroad; 700,000sq.m are to be built by next year, guided by the President’s request of the Architecture and Construction Ministry this June

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ast year, construction service exports from Belarus totalled $125mln. — almost double that of 2009. The targets for 2011 and 2012 are even more ambitious. Housing construction domestically is to be curtailed slightly, since the Government and banks are reducing volumes of privileged loans, stimulating the population to rely more on their own efforts. As a result, some construction capacity has been freed, allowing it to be re-oriented towards foreign markets.

According to experts, Belarus could earn up to $1bn annually from its export of construction services, due to its highly qualified professionals and provision of its own materials. Almost everything necessary — from fittings, road metal and cement to hygiene equipment and finishing materials — is manufactured domestically.

Moreover, Belarusian builders have been working abroad — in Venezuela, Turkmenistan and Russia — for some time. Five thousand flats are currently being built in the Venezuelan cities of Maracay and Tiquire Flores: from preengineering works and preparation of infrastructure to ‘turnkey’ housing. Other projects include the reconstruction of a residential suburb in Caracas’ Miraflores, and construction of agro-towns. At the same time, Belarusians are constructing industrial sites in Venezuela. In 2011, three plants are to be finished, manufacturing bricks, tractors and trucks.

Major projects are being implemented in Turkmenistan, with mining and processing facilities to produce potash fertilisers currently under construction. The first stage costs $1bn.

The Turkmen President has asked Belarus to construct all necessary infrastructure to the final ‘turn-key’ stage, with about 20,000 flats planned for potash workers.

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In coming years, exports of services to Russia are to be expanded through housing construction in areas bordering Belarus, and in Moscow. The nearest plans include the construction of commercial flats and social housing for the Russian military, with supplies of Belarusian construction materials to be increased. According to the Russian Minister for Regional Development, Victor Basargin, interest is being shown in Minsk’s Keramin, which manufactures hygiene equipment, finishing materials and glass. “At present, some glass is imported to Russia from China; this is rather interesting to us, since our construction industry has been recently revived.”

The Russian construction market, which has been reviving after the global crisis, is also badly in need of cement. To satisfy its own needs and increase export supplies, Belarus is expanding its production volumes. According to Anatoly Nichkasov, Belarus’ Architecture and Construction Minister, it will be p ossible to rais e volumes of cement manufacture on the account of launch of three new lines. Two will boast an annual capacity of 1.8mln. tonnes each, based at the Belarusian Cement Works and Krasnoselskstroymaterialy.

Equipment is currently being assembled there, with the project overseen by the Chinese CITIC Corporation. According to Mr. Nichkasov, in December 2011, trial production will be launched.

A third line is planned for Krichevtsementnoshifer enterprise, to be put into exploitation in early 2012. “As a result, we’ll expand cement manufacture by 5.4mln. tonnes,” notes Mr. Nichkasov.

From next year, cement manufacture in Belarus should exceed the requirements of the domestic market two-fold, allowing expansion of export supplies.

By Vladimir Vasiliev

Energy from alternatives of the absence of special programmes to stimulate wind power, it will take at least 10 years, by some estimates, for turbines to pay for themselves. However, specialists note that the country boasts powerful wind potential, so large and small wind farms could work efficiently.

R e c e nt ly, on e su ch u n it b e g an op e r at i ons at Grodnoenergo while the CIS’ most powerful (and tallest) wind turbine was launched near Novogrudok. In a short period of time, it has become evident that wind power really can bring dividends. Already, German investor Enertrag is helping implement a wind park project, with turbines located on the country’s highest hills, in Minsk Region’s Dzerzhinsk District.

In fact, the payback period for wind power in Belarus is considerably lower than that in a number of European states.

Investors hope that Dzerzhinsk’s wind park will pay for itself within a decade. Anatoly Smirnov, a candidate of technical sciences, tells us, “Unfortunately, projects constructed on a small scale take longer to pay for themselves. However, the growing price of electricity speeds up the payback period of investment projects. Just five years ago, wind farms were taking 20 years to recoup their costs.”

Water, air and sun

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elarusian power engineers have long pondered how to use wind, solar, geothermal and hydro power to maximum benefit, with alternative energy technologies piloted countrywide.

However, these are yet to become widespread, with many only existing as single projects. Traditional gas, oil and oil products still dominate the domestic energy sphere and will continue to do so until alternatives are embraced on a more ambitious scale.

Over 80 percent of Belarusian energy resources are imported, with our country consuming almost 40m tonnes of conventional fuel annually. The figure has been falling (down from 63m tonnes in 1990) but we are still far from energy independence.

Süd-süd-west

Experts calculate that wind turbines account for just 0.008 percent in the country’s energy balance. Because

Belta

Alternative power engineering to help Belarus save energy resources

Constant drips wear away a stone

Belarus’ flat landscape is an undeniable fact, so how can hydroelectric stations really come into play, except on a very small scale? Several significant hydroelectric power stations are being constructed however, designed in our Republic.

Unlike wind power, water energy has long been used in the Belarusian power system, dating from the late 1950s, when over 150 small hydroelectric power stations were located by rivers and ponds. However, only four survived the USSR’s collapse. Today, Grodno is building a hydroelectric power station on the Nieman River while Polotsk’s hydroelectric power station is being built on the Zapadnaya Dvina River. Specialists believe that around 800m kW/h of electricity will be produced by these two new stations, replacing 226mln. cubic metres of imported natural gas annually.

Rules of saving

Alternative energy is part of the 2011-2015 Strategy for the Development of Energy Potential, with the state pinning great hopes on renewable energy sources. These could become the basis of the country’s energy security once technical barriers are overcome. By 2020, Belarus should have reduced its power consumption by up to 210220kg of oil equivalent per $1,000 of GDP, matching the level of developed European states. It’s expected that, by 2015, GDP power consumption should be reduced by at least 50 percent.

By Alexander Nebukin

2011 беларусь.belarus

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Profitable cooperation Car with ‘added extras’

Region makes proposal How is Belarusian Vitebsk helping Europe’s medical services? Soon, the streets of Milan, Paris and other European states will welcome new ambulances reequipped in this Belarusian regional centre

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uri Lyubimov, the General Director of Joint Limited Liability Company Grandiscar, recently told us that a decision had been made to set up a Russian-Italian-Belarusian venture to equip ambulances. The company — which opened at Vitebsk’s free economic zone — showcased its first models of specialised vehicles and latest novelties to the public during the International Investment and Innovative Forum, traditionally held in Vitebsk.

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In Vitebsk, Belarusian-Russian Grandiscar presented its specialised mobile laboratory (suitable for working with radioactive materials), reanimobile and intensive care ambulance.

Nizhegorodets has been long and successfully operating in Russia’s Nizhny Novgorod; Mr. Lyubimov is its First Deputy General Director. The company produces over 500 models of special transport, converting leading global brands. Among them, there are micro-buses, ambulances and reequipped cars (meeting defence and law enforcement agencies’ requirements). A similar facility worth $15m is to be built in Vitebsk over the coming five years, able to produce 5,000 reequipped vehicles annually, with most sold to Belarus, Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan.

Belarusian and Russian businessmen also have ambitious plans to conquer European markets. “Our joint project with the Italians envisages production of medical furniture and salons for ambulances, meeting European standards,” explains Mr. Lyubimov.

“Famous Italian company Balanti is giving us its developments and 2m Euros worth equipment for installation in Vitebsk. The whole project will cost around 4m Euros.”

Vitebsk’s intensive care ambulances re-equip Ford-Transit vans, while its mobile laboratory for radioactive materials uses a Volkswagen Crafter.

For several months, Belarusian border guards have been delighted with the performance of the latter. Soon, Grandiscar is to gain certification of its Iveco buses. Specialists believe that the quality of the new ambulance’s interior will fully satisfy European requirements for ergonomics, aesthetics and materials. Meanwhile, the prime cost will be lower than in Europe, enabling the company to successfully compete on the Western market.

“We believe that our manufacture will enjoy huge demand — owing to low prices. At present, elite hospitals in

Profitable cooperation Russia, Belarus and Europe are ready to pay up to 100,000 Euros for a firstrate ambulance, while we can offer a well equipped vehicle for just 50-60 thousand.”

Venue for talks

Grandiscar presented its designs at the 6th International Investment and Innovative Forum in Vitebsk, attended by representatives of business circles from over ten states. Some were visiting Belarus for the first time, with the aim of learning more about the local business climate and the Vitebsk Region’s local programmes. Meanwhile, some had been coming to Vitebsk for five years, establishing competitive production facilities in the region. These tend to focus on production of automobile oil additives, cable products, goods made from aluminium and polyvinylchloride, modern clothes and footwear and food.

Dried milk whey is to be made at a regional cheese making plant — much in demand in Europe, while other new projects include those dealing with local fuels: shove, peat and wood chips. Chinese guests have confirmed their interest in the energy sphere. “We are at Vitebsk’s forum for the third time,” said the Councilor on Trade and Economic Issues at the Chinese Embassy to Belarus, Yui Suisin. “Our company is involved in constructing a hydro-electric power station in Vitebsk Region and we are also interested in innovations. We want to learn more about the developments of Belarusian universities and enterprises. New joint projects

might emerge in the future at Vitebsk’s free economic zone.”

Germany sent a delegation to Vitebsk this year, including REMONDIS (involved in waste utilisation) and BE.ST (supplying equipment for oil processing). “I think this visit will be interesting to our businessmen and to the companies in Vitebsk Region. We

concrete agreements. For example, Czech PDW Group is ready to invest around 50m Euros into the development of Vitebsk Airport’s infrastructure. “Most projects are to be realised using foreign investors’ money,” the Deputy Chairman of Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee, Oleg Matskevich, notes, summing up the forum’s results. “We are ready to jointly

Over the past two years, Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee has signed 38 investment agreements with Belarusian and foreign investors, worth $400m plan to visit some of them,” commented the Head of the Representative Office of the German Economy to Belarus, Vladimir Avgustinsky. “The innovative component is vital. Belarus is interested in export-oriented manufactures which are in demand in Europe. Meanwhile, Germany is a leading supplier of innovative products and technologies worldwide.”

Vitebsk’s Investment and Innovative Forum ended with

discuss different forms of investment — such as foreign credit lines, loans and the establishment of joint and foreign companies. The key is to realise projects which are mutually beneficial and profitable for the Vitebsk Region’s residents.”

By Sergey Golesnik

Additional information  37 residents currently

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operate in Vitebsk’s free economic zone, with a third established using Belarusian capital. Another third use Russian money, while others are from outside the CIS: primarily, Germany and Poland.

2011 беларусь.belarus

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Belta

Innovations

Microcircuits and great profits The examples of China, South Korea, Japan, Finland and other countries prove that the creation of a ‘smart’ economy — boasting a high share of high-tech science intensive products — yields no fewer dividends than trade in energy sources. In five years’ time, Belarus is to increase its exports of innovative products over 2.5-fold, to reach $8bn

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h e c ou nt r y ’s u n i qu e microelectronic facility — Integral Production Association — boasts a sterile workshop: even more so than operating rooms. On entering, special clothes must be worn, with another change required on entering the production workshop.

If a single particle of dust falls on a memory crystal (the major component of submicron production) it must be

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thrown away. The production of microcircuits of 0.35 microns is a lengthy process, including over a thousand operations. It takes almost two months to produce one such product, which is ten times thinner than a human hair and visible only through a powerful electronic microscope. Meanwhile, a modern telephone set can be made using just one crystal.

In Soviet times, Integral was the flagship of the microelectronic branch, supplying microcircuits to almost every

USSR region. However, economic hardships affected the plant and the number of orders gradually decreased, causing accumulated debt. However, on realising the strategic importance of the facility, the state allocated financial aid.

The recovery period was long and hard.

Today, the plant manufactures microcircuits and complicated electronic equipment and is becoming an interesting object for investors. Along with growing exports, its financial figures

Investments are improving. “Last year, the plant’s net profit exceeded $6m, in equivalent. This year, we plan to raise our positive foreign trade balance to $55m,” notes Integral’s General Director, Vitaly Solodukha. “By 2015, this figure should reach $100m.”

The company’s strategy for the near future is to strengthen its position on existing segments of the global market, while conquering new sectors — in particular, within the science intensive branches of space technologies and defence. All the necessary prerequisites are there, with the plant conducting scientific studies and developments.

The chief engineer at Belmicrosystems Scientific-Technical Centre, Vladimir Tsymbal, shows us the ‘electronic eye’ of a space satellite for remote Earth sensing.

Integral has produced electronic components for this optic device, which makes it possible to record images with maximum accuracy and without distortion.

The plant has already realised a range of investment submicron projects dealing with microcircuit making, to increase output and sales of new highly profitable and competitive products. Integral is also planning to master and develop over 30 varieties of integral microcircuits, under the Union State Russian-Belarusian Basis programme. Over 50 companies in Russia’s military-industrial complex have confirmed their needs.

Not long ago, the Council of Ministers’ Presidium held its session at Integral’s premises. The Government’s interference is inspired by the company’s difficulties over floating assets. “We aren’t asking the state for additional funds,” notes Mr. Solodukha. “We’ve formed a serious portfolio of orders and our products enjoy demand in non-CIS states. The enterprise feels confident and has begun making money.” However, the debts accumulated in previous years are hampering progress, so Integral has asked the Government to look at restructuring these debts, to be paid in instalments. Corresponding proposals are now being studied.

By Konstantin Yevgeniev

Pure trade shifts towards investment projects Belarus implements $6bn WORTH investment projects jointly with China

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n meeting China’s Deputy M i n i s t e r of C om m e rc e , Chen Jian, in Minsk, Belarus’ Deputy Prime Minister, Anatoly Tozik, stressed that Belarus and C hina are implement ing j oint projects worth almost $6bn, of which about $3.5bn is on loan from Chinese banks. Speaking of specific projects, Mr. Tozik mentioned Minsk’s TPP-2 — commissioned on June 29th. “This is the first successful project in the field of energy being realised jointly with a Chinese corporation,” he said, adding that, in September 2011, another major project will be implemented at Minsk’s TPP-5.

Over 20 Chinese corporations and subsidiary offices operate in Belarus at present. According to Mr. Tozik, Belarus and China have reached a new phase in their bilateral relations: the opening of joint companies and implementation of mutually beneficial projects using direct investments. In his words, the joint venture producing white goods — Midea-Horizont — is quite a success in Belarus.

“In the near future, we plan to reach production of three million microwave ovens annually, while building several more plants to produce household appliances in Belarus,” Mr. Tozik stressed.

A joint

company producing hydro-mechanical transmissions for heavy trucks has also been set up in Belarus.

Joint companies using Belarusian capital also operate in China, such as one joint venture producing chassis for heavy trucks — including military machinery, which has been there for almost 15 years. A joint facility to produce dump trucks has been established and, in Harbin, we have joint production of forage harvesters; this year, over 1,000 vehicles will be produced there. We have launched joint assembly of high powered tractors which, according to Mr. Tozik, have good prospects on the Chinese market.

Mr. Tozi k st ress e d p osit ive trends in our mutual trade, saying, “In 2005, figures reached $800m.

This year, trade is expected to reach $3bn.” He noted that our countries have recently shifted from pure trade to the realisation of major investment projects.

By Oksana Shikunova

2011 беларусь.belarus

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Efficient approach

Priorities of useful actions

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ptimistic messages have recently appeared, saying that our foreign trade balance has begun to level out, even becoming positive. This is pleasing, since foreign trade and the export of domestic produce have always been a ‘trump card’ of the Belarusian economy. Many well-established and well-known enterprises are now struggling to ensure our exports meet the high quality of old, worthy of the ‘Made in Belarus’ trademark, to ensure good sales. The Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BelCCI) is among those guiding our export success.

It plays a vital role in attracting foreign investments into the country while influencing the efficient development of joint industrial co - operation.

Chairman Mikhail Myatlikov tells us about its readiness to make efficient, contemporary and bold decisions T he B el ar u si an Chambe r of Commerce and Industry is known to be one of the leading business communities in our country. How great is its potential?

I’d like to say that the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry unites the whole range of domestic entrepreneurship: from representatives of small business to large enterprises and holdings. At present, it boasts over 1,800 members.

The Chamber is a connecting link between business and power, being a reliable assistant and a stable partner for business circles liaising with state apparatus. Moreover, it defends enterprises’ interests - both in Belarus and

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within the international community. At present, the BelCCI is a member of the International Chamber of Commerce, of the Association of European Chambers of Commerce, of the International Council on Co-operation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, of the Economic Chambers of Eastern and Central European Countries, and of the Council of CCIs for the Central European Initiative and the Hanseatic Parliament.

I should mention that the Chamber’s representative offices are operational in China, Russia and Germany. Moreover, we have thirty public representatives in more than 17 countries, who are ready to provide assistance to anyone wishing to collaborate with Belarus.

The BelCCI has signed over 700 a g re e m e nt s an d m e m or an du ms on co-operation with national and regional chambers from CIS and non-CIS states. Moreover, taking into account the increasing role of the Chamber in the economic life of the country, business co-operation councils have been set up jointly with over 13 states. The BelCCI is actively liaising with the Belarus-EU Business Council, headquartered in Brussels. Since 2008, the Chamber has annually conducted financial and investment forums.

The BelCCI is also a member of three working parties of the Foreign Investments Advisory Council at the Council of Ministers of Belarus. From time to time, the Chamber publishes proposals on investment projects, familiarising foreign companies with

opportunities for working in our Republic.

Since October 2010, the BelCCI has been a participant of the Advisory Council of Heads of CCIs of the Customs Union of Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan. We believe that the Chamber’s potential as Belarus’ leading business community is far from being fully realised. World practice shows that the Chamber should be everywhere where business exists - so one of our tasks is to expand our business community. Only those who boast sufficient representation can truly speak on behalf of business.

Undoubtedly, it’s vital to intensify the work of the entrepreneurial community, which now unites the BelCCI. Accordingly, in the near future, we plan to set up a range of branch and thematic committees at the Chamber, whose activities will support interaction between public, non-commercial and entrepreneurial structures and bodies of legislative and executive power. They will deal with various issues of entrepreneurial activity and will guide us in improving conditions for doing business in Belarus. We aim to form a favourable investment climate and develop private and state partnership.

Undoubtedly, the export orientation of the domestic economy envisages activity from the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. What aspects of your work are most vital?

Promoting the development of Belarusian enterprises’ export supplies is one of the major tasks of the BelCCI,

Efficient approach which is also reflected in the Law of the Republic of Belarus and the Chamber’s Charter. At present, this topic is especially acute, since the development of export potential and ensuring a positive balance for Belarus’ foreign trade are essential. Demand is an important factor guiding the development of domestic products; meanwhile, we aim to maintain a high level of employment and ensure economic growth.

The final goal of most areas of our work is dynamic promotion of Belarusian goods and services to foreign markets. To achieve this, we are organising visits by our business circles to foreign states, while receiving delegations from other countries. Our enterprises and organisations are taking part in various exhibitions, international forums and workshops, while training specialists in various branches, including in areas of foreign economic activity. Last year alone, we organised over 500 events — more than one daily. Clearly, the BelCCI is working intensively.

We should add that we organise training programmes, while studying how best to enter foreign markets.

We issue certificates, verifying goods’ country of origin, without which exporting would be extremely difficult.

Protecting intellectual property rights and mailing commercial proposals to our partner organisations is also important, as is the upholding of the interests of Belarusian legal entities at the International Arbitration Court of the BelCCI. We also hold foreign language courses at the Chamber; at first sight, these don’t appear to directly raise exports but, without knowing foreign languages, it’s almost impossible to conduct export activity.

There are so many areas that it’s difficult to distinguish the most important but, tactically, the greatest effect is reached by exhibitions of Belarusian manufacturers abroad and tête-à-tête negotiations. Other areas, as mentioned above, have a strategic effect, depending on how

well enterprises use the opportunities we offer them.

How has the Chamber’s activity changed in view of difficult economic conditions, complicated by a whole range of financial problems?

Alongside helping our enterprises to pursue a more aggressive (in the best sense of this word) export policy, we are focusing on working with foreign partners more purposefully.

In particular, we are guiding foreign businesses (arriving upon the invitation of the BelCCI) to negotiate sales, while encouraging them to search for joint ventures, injecting money and sharing technologies with Belarus. We are inviting specialised organisations involved in importing to visit our Republic. A recent successful example of such interaction has been the visit of the Korea Importers Association (KOIMA).

Recently, we’ve been introducing consulting services at the Chamber.

In particular, we can offer assistance

our regional structures are taking part, annually organising investment forums or conferences jointly with regional executive committees.

Potential investors receive full information on investment opportunities in the Belarusian regions. This year, investment forums have been hosted

by Gomel, Vitebsk and Lida.

The Central Machinery of the BelCCI, jointly with the Belarus-EU Business Council, annually conducts investment and financial forums in Minsk. Of course, most foreign economic events organised under the auspices of the BelCCI involve giving foreign partners complete information on Belarus’ investment climate.

This includes information on state property sites subject to privatisation, as well as preferences and privileges.

Ad d i t i o n a l l y, we’re launching the latest training technologies on how to conduct business

Of course, most foreign economic events organised under the auspices of the BelCCI involve giving foreign partners complete information on Belarus’ investment climate. This includes information on state property sites subject to privatisation, as well as preferences and privileges to Belarusian companies seeking foreign business partners - checking their reliability. We can also provide pricing information, as well as data on imports of definite commodities, showing their country of origin — especially where they have come from a nation where the BelCCI has a representative office or public representatives.

The attraction of foreign investment into the Belarusian economy is the second most vital task for the BelCCI. As well as our central office,

under contemporary conditions. A bright example is the ‘EAST-INVEST’ international technical assistance project, which began this summer as a pilot project by the BelCCI and the European Chamber. It’ll become the first event of the EU’s ‘Eastern Partnership’ programme, aiming to develop business ties between Belarusian small and medium-sized businesses and those of EU states. The project’s major task is to train specialists in providing help to enterprises regarding EU export issues.

2011 беларусь.belarus

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Efficient approach Representatives of small and medium-sized enterprises who have pass ed t heoretical training will take part in exhibitions in Europe (financed by the project) alongside those from organisations promoting entrepreneurship - from January 2012 to September 2013. This will enable them to solidify their knowledge and skills, seeing foreign economic activity in practice.

How is the Chamber changing its work to reflect today’s economic conditions?

Taking into account the dynamic d e v e l o p m e n t o f t h e e c o n o m y, expansion of export supplies and inflow of injections, the Chamber has begun introducing a range of innovative moves, while preserving its traditional services.

It’s well known that many economic successes are rooted in par tnership. However, it’s not easy for a modest company head or an entrepreneur to find a reliable and long-lasting partner. How efficiently does the Chamber act as an intermediary in these matters?

During the years of its existence, the Chamber has accumulated huge experience, embracing wide business ties and contacts. It has gained the trust of BelCCI members and partners, while creating its own unique methods of working.

Taking into consideration the modern requirements of mastering new sales markets, collaboration has been launched with various foreign chambers. Belarus’ traditional partners are Indonesia, Qatar, Malaysia, Mongolia, the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the Philippines, Japan, Argentina, Brazil, Congo, the SAR, Greece, Israel, Ireland, Spain, Cyprus, Slovenia, Croatia, Finland, Switzerland and Sweden. The Chamber is conducting a well-directed search for investors and business partners,

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while doing marketing research and offering consultations (at the request of Belarusian and foreign enterprises).

The efficiency of our efforts is confirmed by the fact that, last year, 14 companies with foreign capital were set up with help from the BelCCI. In turn, the Chamber is to become a ‘onestop-shop’ for foreign firms wishing to work with our country, helping them find reliable business partners and easily and quickly implementing each stage on the path to trade and investment.

How does the Chamber manage to represent the interests of different groups from the Belarusian community abroad? What role do its foreign representational offices play?

According to the Belarusian law ‘On the Chamber of Commerce and

agriculture and processing of agricultural products, transport and logistics, tourism, ecological construction, alternative energy sources and energy efficiency, and textiles.

As regards foreign representational offices, their services are certainly in demand by many Belarusian enterprises. They provide information on foreign economic legislation, on statistics of foreign trade (including physical and monetary volumes of exports and imports, regarding certain countries and products), and on exhibitions, while organising presentations, conferences, roundtable discussions and seminars. Moreover, they arrange visits for Belarusian business circles to exhibitions and targeted business trips, while providing information on companies (including sales prices).

Representations help find potential partners, including with the purpose of realising investment projects, while assisting in organising and hosting advertising campaigns for Belarusian products and training courses for Belarusian business circles. They are ready to accompany talks, conduct market research on certain groups of products and branches, and assist in booking hotels and organising fairs and exhibitions.

An important aspect of the Regional exhibitions are also in demand nowadays Chamber’s work is its organiIndustry’, we treat every member sation and hosting of exhibitions. equally, not distinguishing any groups What are its recent achievements?

It’s worth mentioning that, in but assisting everyone who addresses us. However, in some cases, choices 2010, the BelCCI and its exhibihave to be made. For the ‘East-Invest’ tion company — Belinterexpo — programme, the BelCCI had to select organised 11 expositions of Belarus representatives of small and medium- abroad, gathering 494 enterprises sized business in six promising and companies of various forms of areas, showing them how to export ownership. Belarusian exhibition their manufactures to EU states. stands were visited by 20,000 foreign It’s impossible to provide training specialists. The national expositions to every company, so the European of Belarus at the 43rd International Commission project heads joined the Exhibition in Cairo, the International Belarusian Chamber of Commerce in Hannover Industrial Fair and the Industry in selecting those six areas: 10th International Industrial Fair in

Efficient approach Tehran, the 2nd National Exhibition of Belarus in Azerbaijan, the 1st National Exhibition of Belarus in Serbia, and the National Exhibition of Belarus in the city of Dnepropetrovsk were the most significant events.

Of course, the National Exposition at Shanghai’s EXPO-2010 was a landmark event. Having united the efforts of many Belarusian enterprises and organisations, we managed to prepare a pavilion representing the Republic of Belarus to the global community at a high modern level.

A record number of visitors came over 5m people; it’s a figure which is unlikely to be surpassed ever again.

We hope that our accumulated experience of participating in such major events will be applied again in future.

National exhibitions organised

by Belarus considerably contribute to strengthening of economic cooperation with foreign countries. The National Exhibition of the Islamic Republic of Iran was held last December, serving as a fresh example. The event gathered 90 firms, representing a wide range of industrial fields — including aviation and folk crafts.

The BelCCI is now involved in a new form of national exhibition activity abroad, with Belinterexpo Unitary Enterprise being the largest exhibition operator dealing with the organisation of Belarus’ national exhibitions across the CIS and beyond.

In recent times, we’ve also focused on mastering Belarusian regions. At the initial stage, we plan to arrange events in regional centres which have been previously common exclusively for the capital.

Does the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry enjoy strong ties with its partners from other post-Soviet republics? Does the ‘old friends’ network help in such practical matters?

Naturally, it’s impossible to assert that the BelCCI boasts equal partner relations with all post-Soviet chambers.

However, since 2002, annual sittings of

The BelCCI also took an active part in preparations for the exhibition

the CIS chambers have been organised.

The heads of the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry have participated as observers in the past five years. The Belarusian Chamber enjoys business and often friendly relations with its colleagues from Russia, Ukraine, Ar menia, G e org ia, Kaza k hst an, A r m e n i a , Mo l d ov a , L i t hu a n i a , Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. Not long ago, we welcomed representatives from Kyrgyzstan’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, organising — at their request — acquaintance with the Belarusian Universal Commodity Exchange. Kyrgyzstan is studying this with the aim of establishing a similar exchange itself.

Every year, the BelCCI takes part in the International Spartakiada for Belarusian, Moldovan and Ukrainian chamber workers. Sporting events and informal meetings are the best way to build friendly relations, significantly helping in our work.

Which regions are being viewed by Chamber experts as most promising — regarding production co-operation, trade and investment collaboration?

Belarus’ foreign economic ties are an important factor in our economic stability and development. Historically, our Republic has collaborated with many countries worldwide, including with assistance from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Pleasingly, in

2010, Belarus exported to over 150 states, while receiving foreign investments from the CIS (primarily, Russia) and nonCIS states — such as the UK, Austria, Cyprus, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, the USA, Lithuania and Latvia. To ensure entry to new foreign markets while maintaining our niche on traditional markets, our domestic enterprises have developed production cooperation with many foreign partners.

In our view — as reflected in t he 2011-2015 Nat iona l E xp or t Development Programme - the most promising regions for the development of foreign economic ties include Latin America, Africa and South-East Asia (both from the point of view of traditional trade and production cooperation development). However, we won’t be neglecting our wellestablished partners -within the Customs Union of Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan, the EU and China.

The BelCCI is currently preparing to set up a representational office in Australia and New Zealand. We think this region groundlessly lacks attention from Belarusian businesses and we can and should co-operate — not just in matters of trade but in attracting investments. We could also share technologies, setting up joint industrial production for domestic and foreign consumer markets.

By Victor Mikhailov

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Festivals

When song is clear without translation Slavonic Bazaar in Vitebsk unites Belarusians of the world

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ust imagine: Belarusian songs are still heard in Siberia, performed by the descendants of those who arrived from Belarus in the late 19th century to master new lands. Recently, the grandchildren of those pioneers visited the homeland of their forefathers, hundreds of years on, to attend the 1st Arts Festival of the Belarusians of the World. It was among the brightest events at the 20th International Slavonic Bazaar in Vitebsk Arts Festival.

Thousands of singers, painters and writers work abroad, continuing the traditions of Belarusian culture. Until recently, no contact has been established with them from their homeland but the Festival has helped gather these masters of art. Over 230 diaspora representatives attended,

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arriving from 12 countries: Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Holland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, Ukraine, Estonia and the USA. “The state does not forget about Belarusians abroad, who preserve their national traditions and the Belarusian language,” notes Culture Minister Pavel Latushko, promising to organise the Festival in the future. The Culture Ministry is now working on a draft Belarusians of the World state programme. If supported by the Government, co-operation with Belarusians abroad will become systematic — covering not only culture but also education and trade.

Valery Kazakov — a leader of Russia’s Belarusians — has called for legislation to protect Belarusians abroad.

“Millions of people await this in Russia

and elsewhere; there are many of us,” he stresses. In turn, the Chair of the Belarusian Public-Cultural Comradeship Association in Poland, Yan Sychevsky, hopes to see agreements soon come into action to establish a 30km zone for free movement of residents from Polish and Belarusian neighbouring districts. In his view, this will contribute to closer ties between our countrymen, supporting shared language and traditions. “Not long ago, Belarusians in Poland felt shy of their origins and Orthodox religion; now, they’re proud of having a specific culture and an independent Belarusian state — on which much hope is pinned.

The deputies at the Polish Parliament — the Sejm — also defend our interests.”

Sadly, Belarusians abroad tend to speak more often of problems than

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Festivals

successes. It is only recently that close ties have been set up between the metropolis and diaspora but the state promises to eliminate all difficulties in future, allowing our countrymen to gain broader opportunities for close contacts with their historical homeland.

Those from Kazakhstan, Latvia, Ukraine and Russia have made a great journey to the homeland of their forefathers. Many were arriving in Vitebsk for the first time. Some wish to return while others plan to develop Belarusian cultural centres abroad to act as the country’s ‘public embassies’.

“This Festival will be held annually, contributing to the preservation of ties between our countrymen and their homeland,” stresses Prime Minister Mikhail Myasnikovich. “We know of their achievements and are proud of them. Each is part of Belarus abroad, acting as a representative of ‘public diplomacy’; they remember their historical roots and proudly demonstrate our rich culture and traditions.”

A network of Belarusian cultural centres is soon to open across Russia, Lithuania, Germany and Ukraine.

Moreover, the number and geography of cultural events hosted outside Belarus is to be expanded. Plans include erection of monuments to Yanka Kupala and

Yakub Kolas in Warsaw and to Vladimir Mulyavin in Yekaterinburg. Many famous Belarusians arrived from abroad to attend the Slavonic Bazaar, including the Honorary Consul of Belarus to Russia’s Tyumen Region, Vladimir Shuglya. He notes that Russians of Belarusian origin are viewed as being people of ‘quality’.

Perhaps no one else has done as much for the promotion of Belarusians songs as composer Igor Luchenok. His melodies were used by legendary Pesnyary band and, this year, he was given a place on Star Avenue, which features the names of those who hold the President’s special award: ‘Through Art to Peace and Mutual Understanding’.

The Slavonic Bazaar in Vitebsk Arts Festival was born twenty years ago and, today, features many representatives of non-Slavonic states — including Cuba and Azerbaijan. According to the Belarusian President, “Having originated as a joint enterprise by Belarus, Russia and Ukraine, this wonderful holiday of creativity soon outstripped its borders, becoming a global scale event.

Here, respect for each nation’s individuality reigns. Our festival is kind and responsive, always welcoming artistes and audiences, for which it is loved.”

This year, about 5,000 guests from 27 countries visited the Slavonic Bazaar.

Nikolay Baskov, Dima Bilan, Valery Leontiev, the Turetsky Choir art band, Taisia Povaliy, Patrisia Kaas, Didier Marouani, Space band and Azerbaijani Eurovision 2011 winning duo Ell/Nikki performed on stage. Belarus was represented by Pesnyary and Syabry ensembles, Nikolay Skorikov, Irina Dorofeeva, Anastasia Vinnikova and Daniil Kozlov.

These days, Vitebsk resembles a resort city, with stands of craftsmen and artists selling their works in the street. Dozens of new cafes have opened, with thousands of guests from all over Belarus and abroad arriving. Assumption Cathedral has been restored, with a stairway connecting it with the Dvina bank. The local Art Museum exhibits folk costumes from Latvia’s neighbouring region of Latgalia and actors from Israel and Russia give performances. Vitebsk Concert Hall hosts musicians from Poland and Lithuania while Russian, Belarusian, Ukrainian, Bulgarian, Czech and other languages are heard at the Summer Amphitheatre — a major venue of the Festival. No translation is needed, as all songs are devoted to love and happiness.

Despite all the difficulties, the Slavonic Bazaar continues gathering the world’s top artistes, who share their talents and celebrate Belarusian culture.

By Victor Andreev

2011 беларусь.belarus

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Panorama

Checking speed and comfort Swiss electric train carries first passengers along suburban route

T

hese comfortable electric trains were dispatched to Minsk from Switzerland back in February, yet their tests along typical traffic routes began only in July.

My own journey began pleasantly, since there’s no need to waste time queuing for tickets. You can simply buy them from the conductor.

These new electric trains significantly ‘outstrip’ traditional models, boasting a spacious interior, equipped with information screens and air condi-

tioning for comfort. Meanwhile, they can reach quite high speeds while retaining a smooth and quiet ride.

You only realise how fast you are moving on looking at the information screen or seeing the rapid change of scenery through the window.

The train control system is almost completely computerised, with various screens showing sensor displays in the cabin. One of these shows images received from cameras installed in the passenger seating areas. “Undoubtedly, it’s more difficult to drive these trains than traditional ones,” notes engine driver Vladimir Povolyaev. “Our drivers have even passed a special week-long internship in Hungary.”

At present, two new Stadler trains are undergoing trials along suburban routes. In total, our Swiss partners will supply ten electric trains, four of which will be operational in the regions. The remainder will connect the Belarusian capital with suburban industrial and cultural centres. Of course, railways workers are primarily concerned as to whether people will use these trains, to help decongest buses, trolley buses and mini-buses.

However, judging by the trial trip, passengers will be keen to use Stadler electric trains.

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 Planes above all Aviation Academy could appear in Belarus

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he establishment of a Belarusian State Aviation Academy has recently been discussed in Minsk, during a sitting of the Co-ordination Council of the Interstate Aviation Committee (training aviation specialists). The Academy could be set up at Minsk’s State Higher Aviation College, as its Head, Alexander Laptsevich, explains.

This is the third attempt to establish

 New proposals for innovative project Belarus studies possibility of assembling ё-mobiles

T

he Chairman of the State Committee on Science and Technology, Igor Voitov, explains that Belarus hopes to attract Russian experts to realise this innovative project. The Committee has already sent a proposal to Russia to study the possibility of launching a Belarusian assembly branch for Russian ё-mobiles. Mr. Voitov adds that talks with other countries regarding possible production of passenger cars in the Republic are underway.

“We view China as a

such an institution in Belarus, with projects in 2005 and 2007 put aside.

“This problem badly needs a solution. Firstly, it’s an issue of prestige: aviation academies operate in all other states who are members of the Convention on International Civil Aviation.

Secondly, since 2006, we’ve been conducting separate enrolment of students for specialities in higher and secondary special education (although, according to the Belarusian Education Code, we can only provide secondary vocational education). Finally, it would be quite profitable from a financial point of view to have the Academy (rather than using our old model of training aviation specialists). We won’t lose our Military Department yet will also be able to train dispatchers and enrol foreign students. The College has all the prerequisites to become an Academy,” says Mr. Laptsevich. potential partner, also planning to propose a joint venture with the Republic of Korea,” he notes. Ё-mobile is a Russian designed city hybrid car, which can run its engine on either petrol or gas. It will be simultaneously equipped with an electric engine and a combustion engine. Its design cuts fuel consumption, increases the engine’s coefficient of performance and reduces harmful emissions. It is expected that the industrial production of ё-mobiles in Russia will be launched in 2012.

Soyuz

Belarus — Russia

Masterpiece of delivery

Belarus-made in demand

Polotsk residents can now enjoy paintings by Shishkin, Kuindzhi, Bryullov or Aivazovsky without travelling to St. Petersburg

Super modern machinery produced in Vitebsk’s free economic zone shall be in demand in Russia, Ukraine and Europe

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olotsk State University’s Information-Educational Centre’s interactive computer software allows visitors to tour the Russian Museum and even listen to a commentary from its Director, Vladimir Gusev.

This is the third virtual branch of the museum in Belarus, following Gomel and Minsk. The State Russian Museum houses 400,000 exhibits, with a third uploaded onto a 200 gigabyte mediateka (presented by St. Petersburg to Polotsk). The University has equipped a separate computer classroom for the technology, with large screen monitors ensuring best viewing.

A

Cold calculations Exchange of know-how An Internet site of Belarusian innovations has been launched, aiming to attract investors. “We’ll complete the database by late 2011 and will keep it updated, offering free access,” emphasises the Chairman of the State Committee for Science and Technology, Igor Voitov

H

igh-tech enterprise assets and bonds are to be offered for sale by open bidding, following the example of global intellectual exchanges. Meanwhile, to promote the novelty, the Committee initiates establishing commercial firms and stock societies at universities.

Pleasingly, at the recent HI-TECH-2001 exhibition of innovative projects, hosted by St. Petersburg, Belarusian developments were awarded 17 gold and 33 silver medals.

mong them there is a reanimobile equipped to the latest technology, to offer mobile services.

An intensive care ambulance is equipped to offer intensive therapy and diagnosis, with one specialised laboratory able to work with radioactive materials.

The much needed range of special transport available to doctors and law enforcement agencies is to be further expanded, with help from Grandiscar joint venture, set up by a Nizhny Novgorod investor in Vitebsk FEZ.

The Belarusian Government has approved its "Monitoring of Polar Regions of the Earth and Support of the Activity of Arctic and Antarctic Expeditions for 20112015" state programme

S

cientific study is conventionally divided into three segments: biological reserves and resources; atmospheric processes; and the testing of Belarus-made developments under extreme weather conditions. This continues successful past developments. The first Belarusian polar station is to be of ‘mobile’ appearance, with elements produced in Belarus and transported to the Antarctic. The first module is to be installed close to the Russian Gora Vechernyaya base, in 2013-2014.

Specialists have calculated that the Russian healthcare branch and private clinics need about 25,000 modern ambulances; Ukraine needs 15,000 and Belarus 5,000.

A mobile laboratory for detecting nuclear and radioactive substances is already in use by Belarusian border guards and five more are sought for Vitebsk. Jointly with Minsk Automobile Plant, the production of a mobile medical room is being studied to create a true ‘hospital on wheels’.

2011 беларусь.belarus

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Quick transit Cargo passes Belarusian customs without delay

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experiment proves successful, the new technology will be spread to other Belarusian checkpoints along the external border of the Customs Union and the Union State. It’s quite possible that only customs and border services will operate in the future, also greatly simplifying crossing.

We can confidently assume that the Belarusian border is successfully coping with its increased burden. Since the Customs Union’s establishment, cargo flow has risen by 35 percent (from January-April 2011) — reaching 8.9m tonnes. Railway transportation has increased most of all — by over 50 percent. Additionally, over two million passenger cars have crossed the border, while Belarus’ turnover with its Customs Union partners has intensified — rising by 43 percent with Russia and by 53 percent with Kazakhstan.

“We are absolutely ready to solve any problems arising from the Customs Union’s establishment,”

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ince July 1st, 2011, transport, border, customs, veterinary and phyto-sanitary control within the Customs Union of B elarus, Russia and Kazakhstan has been shifted to external borders. Accordingly, the burden on Belarusian border and customs guards has risen. Nevertheless, transit flow has been ensured without delay, as Belarus and the Union State took necessary measures beforehand.

In the second half of 2011, a green corridor for goods crossing the border is to open at the largest Belarusian customs clearance checkpoint: Kozlovichi. This should speed up customs clearance for cargo and cars, taking just half an hour per vehicle. Drivers will be able to submit all necessary documents to border services at this single p oint. If t he

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explains the First Deputy Chairman of the State Customs Committee of Belarus, Vladimir Goshin. “We’ll start with infrastructure. At present, the State Customs Committee oversees 24 car checkpoints, with ten fully reconstructed to meet modern requirements. These are situated on the major motorways and control 75 percent of cargo transport crossing the Customs Union’s external borders (overseen by Belarus). Comfortable conditions for passenger cars have been created, owing to the careful planning by the Belarusian Government and the Customs Union and co-operation with the EU. In 2010, the five year national state programme was completed, modernising car border checkpoints.

In addition, from 1997 to 2007, a Union State programme was realised, developing basic customs infrastructure. The capacity of modernised checkpoints rose 2.5-fold — from 8,000 to 21,000 cars daily. It was a costly measure, with the Union State alone allocating 1,624m Russian roubles to modernise Belarusian customs infrastructure. The Belarusian budget allocated an even greater sum.”

The flow of cargo vehicles crossing the western border of the Customs Union has already reached the pre-crisis level of 2008 and continues growing.

With this in mind, the Belarusian Council of Ministers has adopted a new programme to establish and modernise car checkpoints, running for five years. In particular, modernised Domachevo and Kozlovichi checkpoints on the Belarusian-Polish

Meanwhile, in 2011, a B elar usian-Russian programme to establish a single customs automated i n for mat i on s y ste m is to be completed, financed from

cargo, with preliminary e-notification on goods travelling across the border among the most promising avenues. This came into use for Belarusian exporters five years ago, allowing inspectors

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border are to be relaunched this year, while a new checkpoint — Peschatka — is to open in 2013, located north of Brest.

Privalka (on the GrodnoDruskininkai motorway) an d Gr i gorov s h ch i n a (on the VerkhnedvinskDaugavpils route) are b e i n g c on s t r u c t e d , while Urbany (on the Braslav-Daugavpils road) is likely to be modernised. As a result, customs infrastructure on

the border with Latvia is to be renewed and two more checkpoints are planned for the Ukrainian destination. By 2015, at least 15 new checkpoints should be operational in Belarus, leading to increased capacity : along the Belarusian-Latvian border this should rise by around 33 percent, on the Belarusian-Polish by 40 percent, on the Belarusian-Lithuanian by 12 percent and on the Belarusian-Ukrainian by 21 percent. This will ease the burden at peak times, managing at least 34,000 cars daily.

Additionally, Belarus is now actively modernising its section of the 9th international transport corridor. If transport flow grows considerably, Belarusian border infrastructure will be servicing up to 37,000 cars daily. Foreseeing growing shipment to Kaliningrad and Vilnius, the Losha checkpoint of simplified control (on the Lithuanian border) is due to be transformed into a car point, servicing passenger cars and buses.

the Union State budget. Two high speed data transfer channels already operate, connecting Minsk Central Customs with the Russian Federal Customs Service’s Main Scientific-Research Calculating Centre. The Minsk hub has been modernised, allowing data from Belarus’ border checkpoints to reach Russian customs bodies within seconds, and vice versa. The project is being extended for another year, allowing Kazakhstan to join the system; software is now being designed to meet the interests of our three states. Once ready, it will allow information from Russia or Kazakhstan to be relayed in ‘real time’ regarding the delivery of cargo, its crossing point and fees paid. This will enable Belarusian exporters to promptly receive a refund on VAT tax payments. Where a cargo fails to be delivered to its addressee, all necessary measures will be taken to find it and claim fees.

Much is also being done to facilitate the registration of vehicles and

to gain information on cargo before its arrival at the checkpoint. They only need compare goods with the declaration given in documentation submitted by a driver or forwarder, which takes a mere 15 minutes. Already, a growing number of Russian exporters are delivering this information to Belarusian customs officers. However, entry of goods to the Customs Union territory is a new issue; if information is available beforehand, electronic risk filters can be used to help detect smuggling, while significantly reducing time spent on filling out customs declarations. At present, each truck spends around three hours at the Customs Union border if it lacks preliminary notification; this is reduced to half an hour with e-notification.

Already, around 30 percent of cargo crossing the Customs Union through Belarus is making use of the new system and the Customs Union Commission is now considering our membership in the European Transit Convention. This

2011 беларусь.belarus

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would allow documents initially registered by departure customs — whether in France or Vladivostok — to be used for the entire cargo journey, without any need for re-registration at the Belarusian border, speeding up the process.

The electronic system of analysis and risk management allows us to investigate just one car out of 67 (several times less than some years ago). Moreover, the capacity at border checkpoints has risen, with control becoming 7-8 times more efficient. In 2010, Belarusian customs officers detected 950kg of drugs, 59 tonnes of illegal alcohol and spirits and 116.7m of counterfeit cigarettes. This protected the economic interests of our Republic, the BelarusRussia Union State and the Customs Union of Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan, much owing to modern equipment being used. This enables border guards to detect smuggling more easily, making it almost impossible to hide anything in hand baggage or in the back of a huge truck.

The Union State’s Customs Committee has played a key role in the formation of the Customs Union of Belarus and Russia.

Its sessions now feature Kazakh partners, with mutual understanding achieved.

Customs Union custom service heads are following the same ethos as the Union State’s Customs Committee, building on experience accumulated by Belarus and Russia. “The Union State aims for cohesion in settling issues, including those which are customs related,” asserts the State Secretary of the Union State, Pavel Borodin. “Belarus and Russia share a single external border, customs and migration system, simplifying the movement of cargo and people. The Customs Union of Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan will result in simplified procedures for the three states, favourably influencing the development of our Eurasian space.”

Against this background, the Union State is demonstrating organisation and cohesion. Even greater authority is expected.

By Vladimir Bibikov

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Universal vehicle in ‘field uniform’ Unique machinery for villages created as part of Union State programme

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n 1996, the Council of Ministers of the Union State approved a scitech and industrial programme to create a ‘Union State harvester’ for the Belarusian Industr y Ministry and the Russian Industry and Trade Ministry. Gomselmash’s Chief Specialised Design Bureau for Grain and Fodder Harvesting Machinery and the Experimental Works in Sverdlov Region’s Resh worked to create the ideal harvester. The idea was to enhance the efficiency of the agriculture of our two states while allowing farmers to update their fleet at modest cost.

This idea wasn’t a new one, since Gomselmash was developing a universal power vehicle back in the Soviet times.

This is now in production and can be equipped with adapters of several types — to harvest cereal crops or root vegetables or grass fodder. One vehicle can operate almost all year round, replacing a whole fleet of agricultural machinery, usually needed seasonally. The benefits are obvious. Naturally, Gomselmash had many challenges to solve, despite

the idea seeming simple. No other company worldwide had solved the task, yet Gomselmash produced around 10,000 of the original harvesters, which have since proven their popularity on Belarusian fields.

Taking into account the unique needs of Russian farming, it was decided to spread the experience across the whole Union State, with a corresponding programme envisaging mass production of efficient harvesters (based on a 200-450HP universal power vehicle). Gomel and Resh worked in parallel, before finally combining their results to create two sets of vehicles. The programme recently finished, so what are the results?

To be adjustable for new accessories (which also needed to be developed), Gomel workers had to increase the capacity of their universal power vehicle from 250HP to 450HP. In turn, the Experimental Works produced a 210280HP universal power vehicle, as well as a whole set of mounted aggregates.

In all, 108.2m Russian roubles were

In spring 2011, Belarusian and Russian project participants met in Gomel to discuss the first results of testing the new machinery at Belarusian and Russian farms and further plans for joint developments. The major issue is how to organise mass production, since at least 30 sets must be made to make production viable. Gomel is confident that, as soon as the innovation appears at one farm, neighbours will be tempted to buy a harvester for themselves. Such universal power vehicles are already well known in Belarus, although the state is keen to introduce financial mechanisms to make the machinery affordable to all.

Meanwhile, the innovation is certainly quite a new one for Russian farms.

Proposals are now forthcoming on a new project under the programme.

In particular, Ivan G o r b a c h e v, academician-

secretary of the Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences’ Department for Mechanisation, Electrification and Automation, believes that the Union State joint development of less powerful vehicles for smaller farms could be a promising area of co-operation. Mr. Fedorovich doesn’t reject the potential of this area, but reminds us of longer term strategies; everything should be thoroughly analysed.

The first industrial lot of universal agricultural machinery is supposed to be produced in 2012. Gomselmash is planning to independently promote machinery, while assembling it also at its Russian branches.

By Andrey Novikov

By Vladimir Fiodorov

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allocated to Belarus from the Union State budget for the project’s implementation, while Russia received 103.5m.

Moreover, the enterprises spent over 750m roubles of their own funds. As a result, two universal power vehicles have been developed, in addition to a whole set of mounted aggregates. Each harvester costs around 20m Russian roubles — a modest sum considering that machinery can be bought in parts.

The first functioning samples are ready; these have been displayed this summer at a Moscow trade fair.

Sergey Fedorovich, the First Deputy Director of Gomselmash’s Chief Design Bureau for Grain and Fodder Harvesting Machinery, is satisfied with the results, noting, “The model is in demand and we won’t be late. Our production schedule is normal for such an item of complex machinery; imports take no less time to design and produce.”

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Benefiting health

F

Children from Chernobyl districts and Great Patriotic War veterans enjoy recuperation via Union State vouchers

or the past ten years, children from Belarusian and Russian districts most affected by the Chernobyl disaster have been able to recuperate, have fun, gain new impressions and make friends with peers from the fraternal country. The Union State’s budget has allocated over 100m Russian roubles for this purpose so far, with funds spent on sanatoriumresort treatment for schoolchildren from Gomel, Mogilev, Brest, Grodno, Kaluga, Tula and Bryansk regions. About 9,000 children have been able to improve their health at the best facilities, while another 70m Russian roubles has been spent on 4,000 Union State vouchers for Great Patriotic War invalids and veterans. In addition to 24 hour medical help, these honourable people have enjoyed excursions to places of military glory, meeting their brother-soldiers.

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Red carpet treatment

Every year, dozens of sanatoriums, recreation and recuperative centres in Belarus and Russia compete to accept Chernobyl affected children and Great Patriotic War veterans. As is traditional, each winter, the Union State’s Permanent Committee organises a tender for the purchase of vouchers for schoolchildren (as part of organised groups). Several weeks later, Moscow organises a similar tender for recuperative facilities ready to welcome veterans. According to the Director of the Republican Centre for Recuperation and Sanatorium-Resort Treatment of Belarus, Nikolay Mazur, sanatoriums’ interest in ‘victory’ is rooted in several factors. Firstly, it ensures a guaranteed sale of vouchers for the whole year and, secondly, allows advertisement abroad. Accordingly, the number of potential clients is growing.

To be selected, sanatoriums must meet certain standards regarding their facilities, equipment and services offered. This presents no problem, since the owners of Belarus’ recuperative facilities invest millions of dollars in their repair and reequipment annually. It’s no surprise that foreigners are so attracted by Belarusian resorts; over half of all those recuperating in the Republic are Russian.

Apart from comfort, several other demands are placed on spas wishing to accept children with Union State vouchers: academic lessons complying with the school curriculum must be provided, alongside a varied and interesting range of leisure pursuits.

Much attention is also paid to organising events on the Union State theme: artistic contests, quizzes, contests, visits to sites of military glory and meeting with Great Patriotic War veterans.

Since vouchers were introduced for this purpose in the Union State, various sanatoriums have accepted Russian and Belarusian children. In Belarus, the Sluch Children’s Sanatorium and the Zhemchuzhina RehabilitationRec up erative C entre have b een acknowledged as the most hospitable.

Children have been arriving for over five years and, in 2011, the centres also won the tender. Apart from Belarusian schoolchildren, they will accept over 300 teenagers from the Kaluga, Tula and Bryansk regions of Russia.

From birch wood to sea beach

The Zhemchuzhina Children’s Rehabilitation-Recuperative Centre, in Vitebsk Region, is located at the base of a former military detachment. It’s now among the best facilities of the kind for children in Belarus and, according to Director Vera Zakrevskaya, financing under the Children of Belarus Presidential Programme has helped it to modernise and meet the highest requirements. Children enjoy comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, covered walkways from one building to another, playgrounds, six meals a day and a diverse and interesting recreational programme. They can even go on excursions to ancient Polotsk, Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve and Minsk.

The second Belarusian centre which has won the tender is the Sluch Children's Sanatorium, in Minsk District. Situated in a birch wood on the bank of a picturesque lake, it offers comfortable rooms, modern medical and sporting equipment, a diverse menu and rich cultural-entertainment programme. “Our sanatorium has been welcoming Russian children for over five years,” explains its Director, Mikhail Marachkovsky. “We have everything necessary for complete recuperation — including modern equipment and highly qualified specialists. We also have our own sports complex, in addition to a speleotreatment section and well equipped classrooms. Children

are offered five meals a day, with the daily rate of stay costing $25 on average; this includes excursions — such as to museums. Our cultural programme also features several events on the Union State topic. Russians recuperate alongside their Belarusian peers, so youngsters learn new aspects about the Union State.

During excursions, children learn about the history of Belarus and its traditions, while finding out about the shared life and customs of our two fraternal nations. As a rule, during their 24 day stay, teenagers become strong friends.”

Another Belarusian resort — Nalibokskaya Pushcha Children’s Sanatorium — is to welcome Union State children for the first time this year.

In total, over 21m Russian roubles was allocated from the Union State’s budget in 2011 for sanatorium-resort treatment and recuperation of children from Chernobyl affected districts of Belarus and Russia. In fact, 1,300 children are eligible, including 512 Belarusians. Moreover, in late August, over 150 are to travel to the Black Sea coast — welcomed by Zolotoy Kolos and Shakhtinsky Tekstilshchik resorts, in Tuapse District.

The Deputy Director of the Republican Centre for Recuperation and SanatoriumResort Treatment of Belarus, Gennady Bolbatovsky, tells us that Union State money is of great help in helping subsidise the expense of recuperative stays of Belarusian and Russian children affected by the Chernobyl catastrophe. In Belarus, over 200,000 children have the legal right to free medical recuperation trips; each additional voucher is another chance to improve their health. This especially refers to children whom doctors recommend sea air.

War veterans and invalids. Last year, the 65th anniversary of the Great Victory was celebrated, with over 14m Russian roubles spent on recuperation for these honourable people. About 600 veterans from Belarus and Russia improved their health.

Sanatoriums are chosen carefully, with special attention paid to their suitability for older guests, with location vital, to ensure minimum time spent travelling. As the years pass, such journeys have had to be curtailed, as veterans are, of course, now of quite venerable age. Several years ago, some Belarusian veterans were able to recuperate in Tuapse or Sochi but most now prefer Belarusian sanatoriums. However, last year, Peredelkino Sanatorium, in Moscow District, welcomed 13 Belarusian veterans. There, they met former military friends from Russia, while visiting sites of military glory.

This year, 16m Russian roubles have been allocated for 630 Great Patriotic War veterans and invalids to improve their health at sanatoriums, including 272 Belarusians. Twenty Belarusians are allowed long trips by doctors, so are travelling to Russia’s Peredelkino Cardiologic Sanatorium Centre and Karacharovo Sanatorium (in Tula Region). Others will be welcomed by Belarusian Sosnovy Bor, Porechie and Zhuravushka — all highly praised during the tender. The Republican Centre for Recuperation and Sanatorium-Resort Treatment’s chief voucher selling specialist, Olga Kostromitskaya, notes that these facilities boast professional medical services and equipment, the best menus and diverse cultural activities.

By Lilia Khlystun

Deserved rest

TheUnionState’s budget also allocates funds for vouchers for Great Patriotic

2011 беларусь.belarus

31

At the Mass Media in Belarus exhibition, I noticed a Moscow edition of Yakub Kolas’ New Land, printed in the Russian language. Why are Belarusian classical literary works being published in Russia?

I

t may be an awkward question but I was keen to find an answer.

Employees at the Moscow stand explained that Belarusian classical writers’ plots tend to be close to Russians. This may explain why the Union of Writers of the Union State was launched a year and a half ago.

Soon the fourth issue of Belaya Vezha is to appear — a substantial magazine filled with pieces written by prominent classical writers and contemporary literary experts from Belarus and Russia. These are gathered under one cover because they cannot be divided. People from both our nations understand their ideas, regardless of the side of the Dnieper River they originate from: be it from Mogilev or from Smolensk.

“We share common literary themes,” notes Nikolai Cherginets, Editor-in-Chief of Belaya Vezha, Chairman of the Union of Writers of Belarus and Co-Chairman of the Union of Writers of the Union State.

Mr. Cherginets, who suggested the release of a Belarusian-Russian literary magazine?

I don’t want to sound boastful but, after the founding congress of the BelarusianRussian Union of Writers, in December 2009, I suggested to my colleagues that we create a magazine to embody our ‘creative brotherhood’. Why? At present, writers suffer from not always being able to publish their works. State publishing houses are restricted in their opportunities while non-state organisations need to choose commercial works. We want readers to have access to works by outstanding masters of

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literature and young writers. The editorial office’s portfolio already contains works by writers from Belarus and Russia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Turkey, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. As a result, we have a magazine which can be considered international in the broadest sense. It embraces the unique characteristics of Belarusian and Russian writers, presenting them to audiences in various countries. The international content of ‘Belaya Vezha’ speaks for itself: literature unites nations.

Why is the magazine entitled Belaya Vezha?

Initially, we wanted to name it ‘Sobor’, but we discovered that other magazines are already using the title in Russia. We chose it as a good and successful title, since everyone is aware of the Belaya Vezha in Kamenets, on the Belovezhskaya Pushcha border; it has existed since the time of Ancient Rus and symbolises the shared historical fates of Slavonic nations. We aim to strengthen ties between writers from Slavonic countries — who are close in spirit and culture.

Minsk’s Neman magazine also publishes the works of Belarusian writers in Russian, alongside much Russian and foreign prose and poetry. Isn’t there some repetition?

We give authors additional opportunities to gain publication and soon plan to introduce two languages in the magazine — publishing texts both in Russian and Belarusian. Our Russian writers have already supported this idea.

299 copies of the magazine’s first issue were released; now, its circulation exceeds

Alexander Ruzhechka

Meeting place — Belaya Vezha

1,000. How are you raising demand among readers?

We began modestly but, as you can see, our circulation is expanding. Moreover, the Union of Writers of Belarus has acquired a new site: www.oo-spb.by. Many learn about ‘Belaya Vezha’ from there. The magazine should become a platform for new talent from throughout the Union State.

I recently came across your personal website: www.cherginets.by. Not every author can boast such a breakthrough on the World Wide Web. Moreover, I know that many Belarusian poets also appear on the www.stihi.ru site. Has the time of ‘thick’ magazines gone, replaced by Internet reading?

Many writers are yet to adapt to new trends and we’re here for them. I created my own site while I was working as Chairman of the Committee on International Affairs and National Security for the Belarusian Parliament. This helped me reach out to people while expressing my thoughts.

However, I think that it’s too early to replace printed editions with electronic versions.

Turning the pages of a novel or a ‘thick’ magazine, you can pause upon a sentence or word and ponder… The process of touching paper and letters is like tasting a delicious dish. Moreover, not everyone has a portable computer; it’s more convenient to have a traditional book. As far as our magazine is concerned, its circulation may reach many dozens of thousands of copies. The most vital thing is that ‘Belaya Vezha’ contains interesting materials.

By Victor Korbut

Heritage

16th century rarity National History Museum restores rare edition of medieval book

400

years ago, books were the major export of Belarus. According to Galina Kireeva, the Head of the National Library’s Scientific-Research Department of Book Studies, just over ten books were published in Moscow in the 16th century, while the neighbouring Grand Duchy of Lithuania printed two hundred. Enlighteners from all over Eastern Europe came to Vilno — the ancient capital of the Belarusian-Lithuanian state. The Belarusian Mamonich merchants paid for the production of scientific and religious literature, alongside works of fiction. Apostle is one of the rare editions of those years, published in the 1590s. Only five such rarities remain in Belarus, with one recently presented after restoration.

Back in 2001, the National History Museum bought a folio from a private collector. The museum’s Director, Sergey Vecher, tells us that the ancient book was in very poor condition, needing urgent and profound restoration. It took over a year for restorers Andrey Krapivka and his wife Irina Zelenaya-Krapivka to return the book to its original appearance. Pavel Kallaur, the Chairman of Belvnesheconombank’s Board, sponsored

New edition to mark jubilee Vladimir Korotkevich’s Savage Hunt of King Stakh presented in a dozen of countries worldwide

T

he edition is dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the writer’s birth, released with assistance from the Belarusian Cultural Foundation Public Association. It

the work, which he views as a landmark event for Belarus and all Europe. In printing Apostle, the typeset was developed by Ivan Fiodorov — the first Russian book printer. It was well known in the state of Moscow and remains one of the most valuable testimonies to the cultural ties of several nations.

Ms. Kireeva says that, in the 16th century, Belarus was the most advanced country in terms of book printing among the Eastern Slavonic states; here, Frantsisk Skorina published his first Bible. Later, Moscow took the lead.

“However, we should not forget that a masterpiece of book art and scientific thoughts — the Statute of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania — was published at Vilno’s publishing house, run by the Belarusian entrepreneurial Mamonichs. This later influenced the Russian legislation of Tsar Alexey Romanov’s age and became active in the western provinces of the Russian Empire until the 1830s,” she explains.

Such books are true rarities for Belarus, although Russian libraries have many. With this is mind, the National History Museum

is anxious to look after Apostle carefully.

Another folio is now kept at the centre of Belarusian Old Believers: the Vetka Museum of Folk Art, near Gomel.

In recent years, the National History Museum has significantly replenished its collection of manuscripts. Sponsors have helped it purchase part of the library of the Budslav Bernardine Monaster y (17th-18th centur y); Western European theological editions are among them. In the near future, the museum is to showcase another rarity from the 17th century. Mr. Vecher won’t yet reveal its title but asserts that it will be a ‘sensation’.

is in four languages — Belarusian, Russian, Ukrainian and English — and has already been launched in Azerbaijan, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Poland, Russian, Ukraine and Estonia.

In Russia, the edition was presented in St. Petersburg and at Novosibirsk’s Centre of Belarusian Culture. In Kiev, the Belarusian diaspora and students studying theBelarusianlanguageattendedthelaunch.

Three copies of the book have been donated

by the Belarusian Embassy to the National Library and National Literature Museum of Ukraine, as well as to the Belarusian Language and Culture Centre of Kiev National University’s Philology Institute.

Vladimir Korotkevich is the first Belarusian writer to address the genre of historical detective stories and was awarded the State Award for his Black Castle of Olshany. Many of Korotkevich’s works have also been filmed.

By Viktor Andreev

2011 беларусь.belarus

33

Cooperation

Korean ‘wave’ in Belarus It’s hard not to notice the recent rapid development of mutual relations between Belarus and the Republic of Korea. Intensive economic dialogue is being observed, with civil contacts expanding and cultural interchange ever growing. The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea to Belarus, H.E. Mr. Kang Weon Sik, tells us about what has promoted the sudden ‘Korean wave’ in Belarus Mr. Ambassador, what factors are guiding the mutual interests of our states and why are such geographically remote counties collaborating?

Since 1992, when diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and the Republic of Belarus were established, bilateral relations have been steadily developing. After the Embassy of the Republic of Korea opened in Minsk in December 2007, contacts began to develop even more quickly, covering political, economic, cultural and other spheres.

Geographically, the Republic of Korea and Belarus are 9,000km distant but this creates no significant obstacles to bilateral ties. This is the age of globalisation and informatisation, when geographical distances present no serious problems. Also, our states have much in common,

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boasting great potential for cooperation. We feel an acute need to develop relations.

Our two states are united in their aspiration to expand national interests and develop their economies while enhancing standards of living and preserving peace and security within the international community.

I ’m c o nv i n c e d t h at c o l l a b o r a tion between our countries greatly cont r ibutes to t he achie vement of these goals. Friendly contacts between our citizens are ever developing, as are bilateral relationships.

How do you assess prospects for investment co-operation between the Republic of Korea and Belarus?

Trade-economic liaisons between our two states are steadily expanding, although the recent global economic crisis caused trade to fall slightly.

According to official B elarusian statistical data, in 2010, our turnover almost reached $107m (up 30.2 percent on 2009). Of course, this does not yet fulfil our potential for tradeeconomic collaboration but I have no doubt that it will continue to rise in the future.

Our trade-economic co-operation primarily focuses on goods; higher level collaboration involving direct investments and joint ventures is yet to be seen, regretfully. However, after the establishment of the KoreanBelarusian diplomatic relation, larger scale trade-economic co-operation began developing only recently. The opening of the Embassy of the Korean Republic in Belarus has brought on visits from the Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Korea International Trade Association, the

Cooperation Korea Importers Association and other trade-economic delegations.

Moreover, the number of Korean entrepreneurs in B elarus is also gradually growing, which must be a sign of expanding economic collaboration between our two countries.

Ko r e a n c o m p a n i e s a r e n o w analysing how best to enter the Belarusian market and invest money profitably. They are investigating Belarus’ potential and opportunities for further co-operation and injection very thoroughly.

In my view, to encourage Korean investments into the B elarusian economy, active collaboration is required from Belarus, alongside efforts from our Government and our Embassy. The Belarusian Government and business circles should provide information on Belarus’ advantages and disadvantages, while informing Koreans of promising areas for investment. This should bring definite prop o s a l s for t he Kore an s i d e.

Moreover, it’s vital to ensure favourable conditions and to form a system which enables foreigners to freely conduct entrepreneurial activity in Belarus. Korean enterprises want to develop under free market economy conditions, seeking secure investments in Belarus which allow them to become involved in commercial activities.

Mr. Ambassador, a recent visit by a delegation of Korean business people was organised with your assistance.

What came of the meeting at the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry?

On May 24th-26th, Belarus was visited by a delegation of the Korea Importers Association (KOIMA), comprising 20 representatives from 14 Korean companies. The Korea Importers Association is a unique import-oriented economic organisation, which is involved in importing over 50,000 items, from over 100 count r ies worldw ide. Its maj or import items include raw materials,

ready-made goods and ultra-modern advanced materials and components.

Last year, the total trade volume of the Republic of Korea amounted to $900bn, with imports standing at almost $430bn. I believe that the visit to Belarus paid by a delegation from the Korea Importers Association (which accounts for 80 percent of total imports into the Republic of Korea) was of great significance.

A memorandum on mutual understanding was signed between the Korea Importers Association and the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry during the visit. Additionally, a decision has been made to expand and strengthen trade-economic cooperation between our two states, by activating mutual visits by economic delegations. Moreover, during the Belarusian-Korean business seminar, which took place on May 25th, negotiations took place regarding imports and exports of such diverse produce as lubricant and engine oil, polyethylene fibre, timber, powdered milk and ready-made dairy products.

At present, I’m unaware of the exact results of the meetings and whether final contracts have been signed but, as part of the talks, approximately $25m of agreements were discussed.

The Embassy can’t reveal the details of private companies’ terms but we can confirm that the Korean enterprises taking part in the business wor k s h op pr ai s e d t h e n e got i a tions. We believe that this opens up prospects for growing trade between our two states.

In one interview, you said that your Embassy plans to focus on developing business diplomacy. Tell us more…

The world is changing quickly, adapt ing to ne w t rends, s o t he requirements and role of embassies and diplomats must also alter. During the Cold War, the major task of an embassy, as a representative office of a country, was political. As soon as the age of ‘economic globalisa-

tion’ arrived, promotion of tradeeconomic co-operation came to the fore, alongside traditional diplomatic activity.

Business diplomacy is a key task of our Embassy but we aren’t unique in this; all governmental organisations and diplomatic missions promote business diplomacy. Simply put, the ‘diplomacy of sales’ aims to support enterprises’ trade activity. If we speak of the broader notion of ‘business diplomacy’, we primarily envisage the creation of opportunities for doing business. We study demand and the potential of a country’s enterprises and government, while further ties with companies also play a vital role.

In future, our Embassy plans to focus even more greatly on business diplomacy, seeking out enterprises in both states for whom collaboration will be beneficial. We need to find Korean and Belarusian companies which can meet the requirements and demands of both sides. Accordingly, the visit by the delegation from the Korea Importers Association is an example of implementing ‘business diplomacy’.

Combining Belarusian developed fundamental sciences and tech nologies and Korean experience of commercial realisation of technologies, co-operation of Belarusian highly educated labour resources and Korean global marketing experience are a successful path for our ‘business diplomacy’; other avenues of collaboration are also evident.

How do business circles from South Korea assess Belarus’ geographical location? Do they view it as an additional competitive advantage? Has Belarus’ attractiveness grown with the launch of the Customs Union with Kazakhstan and Russia?

Due to its favourable geographical location in the centre of Europe, we can say that Belarus has definite geo-economic benefits. A motorway and a railway, connecting Russia with Western Europe, pass through

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Cooperation Belarus, as do famous ancient trade routes (which begin in Scandinavia and lead to Greece through Ukraine).

Despite Korea being a peninsular state, we exist as an island, due to our split as South Korea and North Korea.

Korea is envious of Belarus’ road and rail network, which connects it in all directions to the Eurasian continent.

In my opinion, the Customs Union of Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan, formed in 2010, has further strengthened Belarus’ geo-economic position.

Belarusian goods, manufactured by highly qualified labour, have duty free entry to a huge market of 170m people; it’s a great advantage. Meanwhile, Belarusian goods can be transported quickly, due to well-developed road and rail infrastructure.

Korean companies are looking carefully at these geopolitical advantages possessed by Belarus, as a great number of Korean enterprises are seeking new opportunities worldwide.

Korean world leaders, such as Samsung, LG and Hyundai Motors, are already working in Russia and Poland.

Soon, not only

Ko r e a n g o o d s b u t a l s o e nt e rprises could be seen in Belarus.

Mr. Ambassador, besides trade links, our states are also seeking a closer relationship regarding international security. How important is it that Belarus voluntarily refuses nuclear arms?

In Korea, Belarus is known as ‘White’ Russia. Koreans were once called ‘a nation in white clothes’.

Historically, our two countries are pure and simple-minded; enmity and hatred have always been alien to us, so we greatly appreciate the values of peace and reconciliation.

As I’ve already mentioned, Belarus and Korea have much in common.

We are both surrounded by powerful countries and have witnessed confrontation and the cluster of world interests. In North-Eastern Asia, we have the Korean Peninsula; Belarus exists in the region of Eastern Europe. Our locations allow us to make our own contribution to the promotion of international peace and security of course.

Nuclear arms development by Nor th Korea is one of the most

Belta

Belarus’ interest in Korea is ever growing

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serious threats to world security, since nuclear weapons could destroy humanity. Their use would bring the most terrible consequences — difficult even to imagine. Nuclear weapon development by North Korea isn’t just a problem for the Korean Peninsula; it influences the whole world. North Korean nuclear research is provoking escalation in the region, which could cause economic decline in North-East Asian countries. The whole global economy would be greatly affected.

According ly, I hig hly appreciate Belarus’ voluntary refusal to house nuclear arms as a form of deterrent. For the sake of neighbouring countries, and the whole world, Belarus has decisively refused the temptation of possessing nuclear weapons. We should praise Belarus’ efforts to live peacefully and promote peace worldwide.

I’d like to address those powers which are yet to reject nuclear arms and those which seem confident that nuclear arms are the only route to security: ‘Come to Belarus right now and learn something!’

How important are efforts to bring closer the citizens of Belarus and the Republic of Korea? What has been already done and what are the future plans to allow us to learn from each other better? How do you view dialogue to date?

How much do Belarusians know about Korea? It’s a country which is divided into South and North Korea, with rapid economic growth, successfully manufacturing high quality electronic appliances (Samsung, LG, etc.) and automobiles (Hyundai and KIA). Of course, Koreans don’t know much about Belarus either. I’m convinced that improving mutual understanding and trust between our two nations, while enhancing interest, are the major, fundamental conditions of developing bilateral relations. Having achieved these, bi l ate r a l rel at i ons w i l l d e vel op naturally.

Belta

Cooperation

Olga Derevianko, a Korean language teacher (on the left), and Veronika Klimko, a third-year student

Being founded 5000 years ago, Korea boasts a bright cultural heritage, with ancient buildings, traditional music and art and a host of other arts.

At the same time, it leads in contemporary cultural events, with pop music and fashion trends developing rapidly.

A new cultural phenomenon — a ‘Korean wave’ — is proving popular in China and Japan, as well as across South-East Asia and Latin America.

In recent times, Korean pop music and films have also become popular in France, the UK and other European states; love for Korean culture is in vogue. Korean history and traditional culture are being presented in the Korean Hall of the National Art Museum of Belarus. I hope that the ‘Korean wave’ will become widespread across Belarus, since we share so many emotional perceptions and experiences.

Already, the Centre for Korean Studies and the Korean Language and Culture Centre are operational at the Belarusian State University and Minsk’s

State Linguistic University. Moreover, the number of students studying the Korean language at these educational establishments as their major speciality is constantly rising. I believe this again proves that interest towards Korea is gradually enhancing in Belarus.

Korean interest in Belarus has also risen, with Koreans paying attention n ot on ly t o B e l ar u s’ e c on om i c potential but, particularly, to its calm, hard-working, careful, sincere and peaceful character. It’s constantly underlined that, in the 21st century, feminine softness is a source of power. In my opinion, Belarus boasts a corresponding national character and culture. Our Embassy promotes knowledge of Korea in Belarus, while widely informing Koreans about Belarus. In this way, we’re trying to improve mutual understanding between our peoples.

In Belarus, our people are united by special ties, since 1,300 ethnic Koreans permanently reside here. They don’t forget their roots and preserve their

origins in their memories and hearts but are contributing to Belarus’ development in various areas. I hope they’ll play a vital role in establishing a bridge between our two states, making a considerable contribution to the development of bilateral relations.

In fact, information about Korea is spread through ‘Arirang’ dance band and ‘Hangul’ school, founded at the Association of Ethnic Koreans.

These also play an important role in increasing the number of exchanges and enhancing mutual understanding between our two countries.

2012 will be especially vital, since it marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and the Republic of Belarus. It is the age of maturity, so our Embassy is planning a range of events to improve mutual understanding and trust between our states. I believe that this will enable us to develop relations in a spirit of mature partnership.

By Nina Romanova

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Education

Exam for teachers The academic year is finishing at Belarusian universities, with new students being enrolled — many of whom are coming from abroad. According to recent data, over 3m foreign students are registered worldwide — creating a huge market worth $3040bn. The lion’s share belongs to just a few states: the USA ($14bn a year), the UK ($5.7bn) and Australia ($3.6bn). In our region, Russia is the certain leader, boasting $70m of revenue from exporting educational services. Belarus has no intention of supplanting Russia but would like to receive its own share of the ‘pie’

S

ince 2005, the number of foreign students in Belarus has almost tripled. They hail from 84 countries and account for 10,500 students (just over 2 percent of the total number in the country). Of course, the education market’s leading states boast much higher figures.

Experts believe that 10 percent is the optimal share of foreigners among students — as observed in France and Germany. However, the USA — known as the major seller of education services — has just 4 percent. Some of its universit ies b o ast hig her figures: California University has 20 percent of foreign students while the University of New York’s alumnus includes 13 percent of foreigners.

Belarus aims to increase its export of educational services 1.5-fold by 2015 (from today’s $11.5m to $18.6m).

To achieve this, the Belarusian State University alone plans to enroll additional 400 foreigners this year (so far, over 2,000 foreigners study there).

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Age of enlightenment

The USA occupies first place globally regarding its share of foreign students (28 percent of the total), followed by the UK (14 percent), Germany (12 percent), France (8 percent), Australia (7 percent) and Russia (5 percent). Belarus’ share is a modest 0.018 percent. According to I.N. Zornikov, who has studied the topic, the expansion of educational exports has been a state priority in the USA, the UK, France and Germany in recent decades. Not long ago, they were joined by Australia and China.

The primary reason for this is that training specialists for foreign countries is among the most profitable exports.

Secondly, educating foreigners supports a country’s geopolitical and economic interests. Thirdly, the aspiration to attract foreign students inspires universities to reform their teaching methods, taking into consideration global labour market requirements, which improves the quality of education. Finally, those who export education — mostly the

USA and Germany — tend to employ the best foreign alumni for the benefit of their own economies. It is now a widespread trend. Governments are thus rendering serious support to their universities, including offering funds to help attract foreign students.

Russian Nezavisimaya Gazeta’s analysis shows that CIS education seems to have overcome its past malaise: ‘The advance in the tide of the Bologna Process and WTO membership should sharpen competition in the educational field. The wild market — which was to a certain degree characteristic of all CIS states — is receding. Some — like Belarus — have not opened the gates to private universities and are not worried now with the closure of ‘pseudo-universities’ while others — like Kazakhstan — still recall the sad period when employers would state in their advertisements: ‘Alumni of certain universities are unwelcome’.

Having left this in the past, the CIS states are now ready to plan a joint innovative path of development’.

Vitaliy Gil

Education

Lebanese students finally graduated from the Medical University (in Minsk)

Welcome to Belarus!

At present, over 50 educational establishments and scientific organisations render educational services to foreign citizens in Belarus. A programme to develop educational service exports in collaboration with other countries ran from 2007 to 2010, with its results now evident. At the time when the programme was adopted, there were 6,750 foreigners from 70+ countries studying in the Republic; now, the figure has almost reached 10,000, covering 84 states. In this respect, aims have been met. Every foreign student spends, on average, about $10,000 annually — covering education fees, accommodation, food and medical insurance. “Established dynamics enable us to prognose that, in the coming years, the volume of financial revenue from exporting educational services should rise: from $11.5m in 2010 to $18.6m in 2015 — or over 1.5-fold,” believes the First Deputy Education Minister, Alexander Zhuk.

By 2015, total revenue f rom exporting educational services (earned since the first programme document was adopted) should reach $190m — much owing to Belarus’ consecutive preparation for the Bologna Process.

Road to Bologna

The Bologna Process aims to establish a European space of higher education, giving recognition to qualifications and teaching methods which are similar across different countries. At present, the Bologna Process officially unites 47 countries, including several former USSR republics: Russia, Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan. In March 2010, Kazakhstan joined and, recently, Alexander Lukashenko has spoken of Belarus’ joining the Bologna Process. He believes a more thoroughly study of the feasibility of this move is required. “We’ve announced our joining of this declaration and analysed the

essence of the process, while conducting consultations with pedagogical circles and scientists. We’ve come to the conclusion that some of the Bologna Process’ provisions and requirements may be inappropriate for Belarus. However, in general, we’re taking certain measures to allow us to participate in the Bologna Process and are not contradicting any article of the declaration,” he stressed during a special sitting devoted to the problems of higher education. “The heart of the matter remains unchanged: we have no right to change our system of education. We need a normal system, oriented towards our economy — primarily, towards our society and our country.”

Specialists are convinced that Belarus’ joining the Bologna Process will help increase exports of educational services. The opinion is shared also by Education Minister Sergei Maskevich. In his view, one of the most important results of joining

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Education will be Belarus’ greater recognition across the global educational space. Its attractiveness as a country of fer ing hig h quality education will grow. “This is very important.

Probably, this is the major reason why we are interested in joining the Bologna Process,” he says. The official promises that, if Minsk notices that a transition to certain European standards decreases the quality of certain specialities (as is already being observed in some areas) adjustments will be made, to protect national interests. For example, Belarus’ twostage system of education differs from others’. He explains, “We have a Master’s degree but don’t need a Bachelor’s in its classic form; there is no place for it on the market.

Addit iona l t raining is ne e de d.”

The Bologna Process was initially accepted with caution by our university scientists and teachers, as the Belarusian higher school boasts good qualification traditions. Since the Soviet times, each Republic has formed its educational system around certain branches, with the level of industrial development and need for specific training guiding the launch of new specialities. This approach presupposes strong fundamental knowledge, so we’ve always tried to preserve our decade long traditions. Meanwhile, Belarusian universities’ qualifications allow young specialists to start work immediately ; the Western school operates differently. There, training for a Bachelor’s degree is only the first step, with additional qualifications and specialisations required

Alexander Ruzhechka

At Theory of Telecommunications classes at the Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radioelectronics

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via post-graduate courses to ensure students are qualified for specific jobs.

This system does not suit Belarusian enterprises so, over the course of time, it has become clear that the Bologna Process can only be used as a general guide. Belarus needs its own system of education proceeding from its national interests. However, in general, Belarus is fulfilling all the recommendations of the Bologna Process, so is keen to have this recognised.

From words to business

Vladimir Zdanovich, the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Education, Culture, Science and Sci-Tech Progress of the National Assembly’s House of Representatives, says that, to inspire foreigners’ interest in Belarusian education, we must employ a formula with many variables. The solution does not necessarily require significant expenditure.

For example, our closest neighbours — the Russians — are unable to enrol at Belarusian universities at the end of their own academic year, since that is when their own exams take place. They must wait until the following year. Meanwhile, Belarusian graduates can apply to universities in both of our count r ies. According ly, only 1,899 Russians attend Belarusian state universities at present, compared to over 10,000 Belarusians studying in Russia. “If we aim to raise the number of foreign students, we must first bring our national rules in line with those of higher education establishments abroad. Corrections are needed,” believes the deputy.

Ad d i t i o n a l l y, B e l a r u s is keen to see each school (and especially university) graduate speaking a foreign language fluently. Obviously well qualified teachers are vital. To raise the attractiveness of Belarusian universi-

Education ties on the international educational market, we must offer classes in two languages: Russian and English or Belarusian and English. Of course, lecturing in English requires new textbooks and new curriculums, entailing serious material and intellectual costs. However, this is the way many foreign universities attract students from abroad. Moreover, such educational institutions make more money, as lecturing in English can

programmes work. Ratings show how you are doing on a global scale.

On the one hand, our place is modest and we’d love to be among the top hundred or 500. However, the BSU is ahead of over a dozen thousand other universities and considerably leads among Belarusian universities listed.” Second place among B el ar us i an u n ive rs it i e s go e s to Grodno State University (2441).

Webometrics lists 69 Polish univer-

Belarus aims to increase its export of educational services 1.5-fold by 2015 (from today ’s $11.5m to $18m). To achieve this, the Belarusian State University alone plans to enroll additional 400 foreigners this year (so far, over 2,000 foreigners study there) cost 2-4 times more than in a state language. Finally, for a university to be more attractive to foreigners, it should be widely promoted on the Internet.

Virtual presence

Webometrics is a rating system compiled by the Spanish Education Mi n ist r y, c ove r i ng ove r 1 2 , 0 0 0 universities worldwide, with specialists analysing not just educational services but presence on the Internet.

The Januar y 2011 ratings placed American universities in the top ten, with Massachusetts Institute of Technology taking the lead. The B elar usian State University was in the 1474th position. This may seem modest, but Belarusian State University Rector Sergei Ablameiko explains in his video blog on the university site, “The results of scientific research, scientific publications, training courses and many other things are placed on the Internet.

Assessment is made regarding how wel l references to a universit y, its publications and educational

sities (occupying places beyond the 371st) while Vilnius University is the 404th; Moscow State University is the 379th and St. Petersburg University is the 838th. Ukraine is represented by 28 universities, with the highest position occupied by Lvov National University (1443th). Kiev National University — a rival to the BSU — is the 1576th.

“I think that the presence of Belarusian universities in such a rating is important, as foreign students take information from this source,” says Mr. Ablameiko. He notes that foreign students tend to first learn about a university from its website. In 2010, the BSU earned $4m from its export of educational services — a third of the whole sum generated by the education system. At present, 2,030 foreign students attend its lectures.

Close people

We should be aware that European enrolees are unlikely to arrive in Belarus in great numbers. There, the population is becoming older, so universities are having to compete to attract foreign

students. With this in mind, Belarus looks attractive for those wishing to gain a good education in Russian, since we are extremely racially tolerant and offer good value for money. During the 2008/09 academic year, 7,500 foreign students attended full time courses in Belarus, with almost 40 percent arriving from the CIS. In comparison with previous years, the largest growth was registered regarding those from Turkmenistan (up 1,027, or an 8-fold rise), China (+348, a 25 percent rise), Turkey (+90), Sri Lanka (+80) and Iraq (+57). Fewer students arrived from the European region (-96, or 67 percent down on 2007/08).

Interstate contacts play a signific ant ro l e i n att r a c t i ng fore i g n students, with many states’ governments helping young specialists apply to train abroad. For example, in recent times, the number of Turkmen students has significantly risen, as this Central Asian state boasts huge profits from selling gas but lacks high quality universities.

During Alexander Lukashenko’s visit to Ashgabat in June 2009, it was decided to strengthen co-operation in the field of education. This year, he paid another visit to Turkmenistan, saying that 4,500 students from this country are unofficial diplomats for our mutual interests, planting the seeds for future business relationships.

Turkmen youngsters study alongside their future business partners and do internships at companies which they’ll later work with. This summer, students from Turkmen Agricultural University passed internships at Minsk Tractor Plant, learning about ‘Belarus’ vehicles. Mr. Lukashenko notes, “The first young specialists who gained their education at Belarusian universities will soon return to their homeland. I hope they’ll take back a warm attitude towards Belarus, alongside knowledge.”

Belarus shares a similar approach to all other foreign students.

By Igor Kolchenko

2011 беларусь.belarus

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Cultural integration

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lmost 20 percent of Belarusian residents prefer to speak Belarusian at home, with the greater par t of thes e b eing villagers. As a rule, Russian speech prevails in cities and towns. In 2010, the country’s leadership announced its plans to expand the application of the Belarusian language. President Alexander Lukashenko noted, “Like no one else, the state feels its responsibility for the development of the Belarusian language and guarantees to maintain the integrity and unity of its contemporary literary norms.

The Government has already approved a

of contemporary Belarus fleeing to find refuge in Siberia; there, they became arable farmers, bred animals, kept bees, hunted and fished.

The Republican Spadchyna National and Cultural Centre of Belarusians operates in Bashkortostan — not in the capital of Ufa but in Iglino District, where most Belarusians reside. The Centre is sited in Baltika village, organising its annual Kupalle holiday with support from local authorities. There’s a library of Belarusian literature, the language is taught in three schools and Belarusian Syabry folk band originates from there. Belarusian is also taught at Pushkin’s junior school, in the

was founded in 1994 at the initiative of the Svitanak Belarusian Society and the Belarusian Embassy to Latvia. It takes children through grades 1-9, with more than 100 pupils on the register; 70 percent are ethnic Belarusians.

Last summer, the Belarusian primary school in Riga moved to a new building, occupying two floors of Riga’s secondary school #86. Director Anna Ivane planned to deliver lessons exclusively via the Belarusian language. Initially, all textbooks, even those in mathematics, were in Belarusian, sent from Minsk. However, the Latvian Ministry of Education and Science introduced a

From Baltics to Baltika Where in the world is literacy taught in Belarusian? plan of action, aiming to popularise and expand the sphere of application of the Belarusian language in the life of society.

It has been elaborated taking into account the proposals of state structures and nongovernmental organisations, as well as scientists and culture figures.” Belarusians abroad try to preserve their national traditions, including receiving education in their native language. This is possible in various countries of the world — from the banks of the Baltic Sea to Baltika village in Russian Bashkortostan.

Bashkortostan, Baltika

Over 17,000 Belarusians reside in Bashkortostan — a Republic of the Russian Federation. The largest Belarusian ‘colony’ is situated even further afield— on the banks of Lake Baikal, in Irkutsk.

The first Belarusian settlements appeared in Bashkortostan back in the 19th century, with migration inspired by the abolition of serfdom in 1861; many peasants were left without land plots. The arrival of WW1 also influenced movement, with many residents

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village of Kaltymanovsky.

A folk museum has been set up at the Centre in Baltika, displaying rural household items, souvenirs and talismans made by the local arts club, headed by Lyubov Vtyurina. A panel of the unique ‘Polotsk quilt’ was donated from Baltika, helping create the collective work of decorative and applied art, which honoured the jubilee of the ancient Belarusian city of Polotsk. The quilt has been sewn from 400 patchwork pieces, sent from 40 cities throughout Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Denmark and Germany.

Latvia, Riga

Back in the 1920-1930s, Belarusian schools operated in various regions of Latvia. The development of education in Belarusian was supported by Jānis Rainis, a People’s Poet of Latvia and a deputy of the Latvian Parliament. He knew and corresponded with many prominent Belarusian figures, including those residing in the Baltic States. At present, a Belarusian school operates in Riga; it

requirement that books compiled abroad could not be used. As a result, only Belarusian language and literature lessons are now taught in the native language, as are extra-curricular activities and various clubs. At present, just 2-3 hours are spent weekly on studying the native language, with other lessons conducted in Russian and Latvian, with elements of Belarusian.

Schoolchildren sing Belarusian folk songs with pleasure and are keen to recite poetry by national literary genius Maxim Bogdanovich. Each classroom has its own Internet connection.

“Of course, the parents have chosen to send their children here,” notes Ms. Ivane.

“However, as they grow up, the children begin to appreciate the unique opportunity they’ve been given to preserve their native culture.”

At one Latvian forum, where pupils were asked to ‘assess’ their school, the Belarusian school received only positive feedback, with comments such as ‘I study at this school! The best!’

There’s a large Belarusian diaspora in Riga, working actively and efficiently to

Cultural integration promote its culture and native language.

Additionally, two cultural societies operate: Pramen and Svitanak. These are successfully involved in preserving cultural traditions while promoting the native language. The school boasts a strong ‘Belarusian aura’. Everything begins with the teachers, who speak only their native language.

In late summer 2010, the Belarusian Ministries for Education, Industry, Culture and Sports and To u r i s m j o i n e d B e l l e s b u mp r o m and B ellegprom concerns, as well as regional executive committees and Minsk’s City Executive Committee to send equipment to the Belarusian school in Riga.

Under the instruction of Alexander Lukashenko, the school was given a bus,

catering tools and equipment for teaching chemistry, biology, physics, foreign languages and handicraft. They even sent furniture for classrooms and auxiliary areas, computers and office equipment, sports gear, teaching materials, carpets and rugs, curtains, cleaning equipment, toys, table games and handicraft items.

Lithuania, Vilnius

Belarusians have lived on Lithuanian territory for more than a century: since the t i m e of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania — a multinational medieval state and one of the largest in Eastern Europe.

Many Belarusians moved to Lithuania in the Soviet times, after the WW2.

In the 16th century, Vilnius was a centre of book

printing in the Belarusian language. In 1906, the first newspaper in Belarusian — Nasha Dolya — was released there; Yanka Kupala, Yakub Kolas and Maxim Bogdanovich had their works first printed on its

pages. In 1919, the Lithuanian Government agreed to allow a Belarusian gymnasium to open in Vilnius, which existed for 25 years — until 1944.

The Frantsisk Skorina Belarusian language school continues the traditions of the original gymnasium. Skorina was the first to publish books in Vilnius and is also considered to be Lithuania’s first printer. School alumni continue the traditions of uniting cultures, speaking perfect Lithuanian, Belarusian, Russian and English.

In recent times, Minsk’s Mayoral Office has allocated $500,000 to strengthen the material base of the Belarusian school in Vilnius, including the purchase of equipment for its language laboratory, two computer classes and a new bus.

Moreover, first graders have been given knapsacks and books in Belarusian.

Estonia, Tallinn

The Belarusian Sunday school, named after Vladimir Korotkevich, is located behind the wall of the ancient city in Tallinn, near St. Olaf ’s Church (Oleviste kirik) — a symbol of the Estonian capital.

The National Library of Belarus has donated books for use both by children and adults wishing to study their native language.

The school aims to popularise Belarusian language, history and culture among Belarusians in Estonia. The educational programme relies on the creative legacy of Vladimir Korotkevich — a classical writer of Belarusian literature and a master of historical novels.

Korotkevich managed to skilfully describe every important stage in the development of the Belarusian nation.

The first stage of the one year school course aims to give complete understanding of Belarusian, while teaching the basics of the country’s history and culture.

At the second stage, pupils learn to speak Belarusian.

Lessons are conducted by Artur Tsurbakov — an author and host of the Batskaushchyna (Fatherland) Belarusian programme for Estonian Radio-4. He graduated from Gomel’s Frantsisk Skorina State University and

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Cultural integration boasts a Master’s Degree in International Relations from Tallinn University of Technology.

countries, alongside those in Białystok and Warsaw, in Poland.

Poland, Podlaskie Voivodeship

Belarusian is taught at the University of Oldenburg by professors Gerd Hentschel and Gun-Britt Kohler. Moreover, an intensive course in Belarusian language and literature is available (covering 40 hours).

During her internship in Minsk, Ms. Kohler perfectly mastered the Belarusian language and now writes reports and organises discussions in Belarusian. Claudia Hurtig teaches Belarusian at the University of Leipzig, conducting compulsory and optional courses. Meanwhile, Prof. Uwe Junghanns has ensured that Belarusian language is now taught for three, rather than two, terms.

Previously, Belarusian language courses were also available at the University of Jena. Recently, grammar books, phrase books and textbooks on Belarusian were released in Berlin, Munich, Jena and Bielefeld.

In Poland, primarily in Podlaskie Voivodeship, bordering B elarus, 3,000 schoolchildren speak and write Belarusian during additional lessons at school. Belarusians have lived there since ancient times, being native inhabitants of the region, just like the local Poles, Lithuanians, Ukrainians and Jews.

In March 2009, Belarusian was recognised as the second official language in the municipality of Gmina Orla and, in April 2009, in Gmina Narewka.

Most pupils study Belarusian at schools in Bielsk and Hajnówka districts.

All teachers of Belarusian language have graduated from Białystok University’s Department of Belarusian Philology. Rector Jerzy Nikitorowicz is very proud, noting, “I’m reviving B elar usian studies at

Belarus reference:

Germany

 Belarusian centres have opened at state universities in Kiev and Baku

with support from the Belarusian President. In 2013, Minsk will be hosting the 15th International Congress of Slavists. Since 1929, this congress has been organised in various countries and will certainly mark the beginning of a new wave of interest in Belarusian among foreign citizens.

Białystok University, enrolling all those wishing to study Belarusian language and culture. Students arrive from across Poland, despite not having known of the existence of the Belarusian language previously.”

Several schools offer additional Belarusian language lessons and have been given textbooks by the Belarusian Embassy. One school is named after Jarosław Kostycewicz while another, in Bielsk Podlaski, is named after Bronisław Taraszkiewicz. Alongside the Belarusian Lyceum in Hajnówka, they began lessons on September 1st, 1944.

The history of Belarusian schools abroad covers many decades. Belarusian can be studied at universities in various

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Hungary

Since 1994, Belarusian language has been taught by famous Slavist and Belarusian language expert András Zoltán, who heads the Department for Eastern Slavonic and Balkan Philology at Budapest University. He holds the Frantsisk Skorina Medal from the Belarusian President and is assisted by linguists from Brest’s University. There, associate professor Larisa Stankevich has been teaching Belarusian for the last five years. University teachers and students have helped compile a Hungarian-Belarusian Dictionary (2007), in addition to Twenty Meetings with Belarus — a textbook in Hungarian (2006).

Slovakia

A former associate professor from the Belarusian State University, Victoria Lyashuk, is now working with the University of Prešov, which boasts good relations with the Belarusian State Pedagogical University.

Moreover, Slovak language is now offered at the BSU’s Philology Department.

Serbia

Belarusian has been taught for five years at the University of Belgrade. In 2007 and 2009,Minskwasvisitedby Serbianstudents, who arrived for internships. Svetlana Kristina, an associate professor of the BSU’s Philology Department, is working in Belgrade, speaking perfect Serbian.

The Czech Republic

Extracurricular studies of Belarusian are available at Prague’s Charles University, conducted by young Czech philologist Marian Sloboda and a former associate professor of the BSU’s Philology Department Yuras Bushlyakov .

Switzerland

Due to the efforts of an assistant at the Zürich Central Library, Monika Bankowski-Züllig, Belarusian was offered as an optional, short course.

Russia

Prof. Sergey Mikhalchenko teaches Belarusian at the University of Bryansk to those learning Regional Studies. Students then pass a state exam in Belarusian.

The USA

Prominent Slavist Prof. Curt Woolhiser, of Harvard University, speaks perfect Belarusian. He annually organises a Summer School of Belarusian Studies in Polish Hajnówka.

The UK

Prof. Jim Dingley is involved in teaching Belarusian, joining Prof. Peter Mayo in writing an English language textbook for foreigners wishing to learn Belarusian. However, the work has had to be postponed.

By Victor Korbut

For information

More foreign students expected Joining the Bologna Process should e complete by 2012

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Choosing from offers More students than ever in Belarus are paying fees for their education

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ccording to the Education Ministry’s Department for Higher Education, about 57,000 students are expected to enrol at state universities this year, for full-time and correspondence courses.

Another 15,000 are to enter privately, with the number of those studying free of charge, on state scholarships, halved.

Specialists say that payable education is gaining popularity, being among the cheapest in the CIS. Students in Russia and Ukraine pay far more. Moreover, Belarusian students pay less than the real cost of their education. “At present, around 30 percent — on average — of educational costs are compensated in the Republic,” notes the Education Minister, Sergei Maskevich.

Affordable prices are attracting foreign students to Belarus, with over 10,000 currently attending higher educational establishments. The Belarusian State University has about 2,000 international students; the executive secretary of its admission board, Vyacheslav Molofeev, admits that they pay almost double the fees of Belarusians. He stresses that the popularity of higher education is growing, with around 60 percent of BSU students paying for their studies. This year, over 2,600 fulltime students will pay for studies at the BSU (with about 2,100 studying free of charge).

In turn, fee-paying correspondence students will number about 1,500 (against 440 studying free of charge). Another 714 will receive a second higher degree.

elarus’ First Deputy Education Minister, Alexander Zhuk, tells us that Belarus is proceeding with its membership in the Bologna Process, with all documents to be signed by 2012. “Our country has everything necessary to be allowed to join; we have a two-stage higher education system and are working hard to create a European supplement to university graduation certificates. We should be ready by 2012.

Moreover, the quality of our higher education system is confirmed by the acquisition of quality certificates by universities,” Mr. Zhuk asserts, adding that the education system is to develop a rating for universities.

This will allow applicants to choose an educational establishment which meets their quality requirements while providing additional services.

Mr. Zhuk believes that Belarus’ accession to the Bologna Process should help attract more foreign students to the country. At present, over 10,000 students from over 70 countries study in Belarus.

By Veniamin Glukhov

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Environment

Reserve motif

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First Belarusian safari park launched at Pripyatsky National Park

everal wild boar pass close by while aurochs graze in a nearby field and storks fly above. At the end of my trip, I’m offered regional dishes, made with local ingredients from Polesie.

It’s slightly ‘wild’ but this is the spirit which attracts nature loving holiday makers from Germany and Holland.

Since early this year, Pripyatsky National Park has generated $400,000 of tourist revenue, with its recently opened safari park being the latest attraction. I was among the first to travel through the dense forest in one of specially designed vehicles.

has a great desire to revive his locality, bringing it to international level. The village already serves as a bright example, having a church, well managed houses and good roads. In summer, it expects to welcome the President for its folk festival: The Call of Polesie. A Museum of Nature and Everyday Life is to open, coinciding with the Head of State’s arrival. The festival is being organised for the second time and could become a traditional cultural forum.

The Nad Pripyatiu Hotel is situated at the centre of Lyaskovichi, while more accommodation is located on the river bank. Full scale leisure infrastructure is being created, able to rival any resort.

Black gold of boar

Iron catch

In fact, everything might have developed differently. Long ago, geologists discovered oil deposits on the site, as the General Director of the National Park, Stepan Bambiza, recollects. Wild boar dug into the ground, resulting in oil flowing to the surface. Drilling was considered to extract the valuable deposit but strict state law prohibited such action.

Mr. Bambiza was born in the local village of Lyaskovichi — now the centre of tourism in the region. Accordingly, he

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The land has a rich history, boasting some remarkable events. The Turov Duchy originated here, with Turov being the oldest Belarusian city, only rivalled by the city of Polotsk, situated not far away.

However, after Turov’s reign ended, the forests and marshes near the Pripyat River were left to run wild, with no cultural or natural potential recognised.

Lyaskovichi’s residents would have left for larger cities sooner or later; traces of habitation are evident deep in the forest

though. “Do you see this hole?” Mr. Bambiza asks. “In ancient times, people smelted iron in coal-mining stoves here.”

On hearing this, I immediately realise why the local springs have brown water; there are metal deposits in the soil. Other evidence is found in the hills, while Turov’s museum has several artefacts from those days. In turn, modern infrastructure is developing.

My house is at the centre

The National Park offers employment to thousands of local residents. Sergey Morozko, 25, works at Pripyatsky’s administration and was a mere child when his village began reviving. “There were about 600 people at that time but, now, there are over 1,000. New houses have been built and the Nad Pripyatiu Hotel is situated on the former marsh.

As far as I know, everything began with a wood processing workshop which produced parquet. The President then arrived and must have seen potential here; afterwards, the first hunting lodges were built and, later, tourists began arriving,” he explains.

Sergey enjoys carpentry and is an amateur photographer. He’ll always be able to find employment in his local

Artur Prupas

Environment

village, with his skills contributing to the village flourishing. Sergey confirms, “I don’t really like city life. Here, I have my own house.”

attract a steady flow of guests from the West. She is the only person in the area to speak fluent English and Italian.

Pripyat jungle

Belarusians also love hunting wild boar. However, the major attraction for them this season is the local safari park. Unlike the Belovezhskaya Pushcha (where aurochs are seen mostly in cages rather than in their natural environment), these animals walk freely through Pripyatsky and can be easily viewed through binoculars (rented from the National Park’s hotel). Moreover, it’s a real pleasure to observe wild duck.

Those who prefer photography head for the Pripyat’s curving banks and to Lyaskovichi where, Mr. Bambiza tells us, 37 stork nests are to be found. It’s fascinating to observe how these birds behave.

It’s taken five Salt and bread years to lay to welcome Pripyatsky a road Reserve’s through

Foreign accent

Pripyatsky is primarily a reserve and a hunting site, with ecologists and hunters from Western Europe arriving in spring. “Germans are the most common foreign guests, permitted to hunt wolf, fox, elk and deer,” explains Diana Novosad, a leading specialist and for many years an interpreter at Pripyatsky Park. “The British, Dutch and Finns are ‘vegetarians’, being more interested in nature, while the Italians like to hunt birds; 99 percent of guests return,” she adds. Charming Diana has made a personal contribution to the National Park in my opinion, helping

By Viktor Korbut

visitors

Artur Prupas

Three large steamboats and one small travel the Pripyat River, forming the local fleet; the river is broad, so vessels have plenty of room. The idea of cruising is proving popular with tourists. Guests from all over Gomel Region are arriving, in addition to those from neighbouring Ukraine. They come to celebrate weddings, birthdays and other events, cruising the ‘jungle’ via the canals formed by the flooded Pripyat between meadows and dense forests. On switching off the engine, wonderful bird song is heard... Mr. Bambiza now dreams of launching an illuminated steamboat — similar to those travelling along the Parisian Seine.

Tracking aurochs by tractor

the forest — now the major road of the safari park. Each day, five metres of timber was laid, later covered with sand and gravel. Mr. Bambiza assures us that the road will last for centuries, as the wood is well preserved beneath a layer of stone.

The local ‘taxi’ is unusual, a tractor pulling three carriages through Pripyatsky. Interestingly, the boar love the noise of the ‘Belarus’ engine, always approaching; in fact, they associate its arrival with being fed.

Pripyatsky plans to accept at least 300,000 guests annually by 2016, explains Igor Chernozipunnikov, who heads a company working with German clients.

He tells us, “We may see even more tourists who are interested in nature.” The National Park’s administration is already working on a flexible pricing policy.

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Traditions

Finding fern flower

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s soon as Christianity arrived, the pagan festival became combined with another holiday: the anniversary of the birth of Saint John the Baptist (popularly called Ivan Kupala, having baptised Christ). Kupalle is associated with many legends, songs and customs, with some still popular today. Others now exist only on paper or in the memory of our grandparents.

Although Kupalle was celebrated in the evening, people began to prepare for it in advance, going to the banya in the morning, to cleanse their bodies: literally and symbolically. Those who were ill placed nettles on the coals to create a herbal steam-bath. The legacy of this is still seen today, with people still making their birch twig beaters on this day, for use during the forthcoming year. Those who failed to go to the banya might visit a spring or well with the same purpose,

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On the day of the summer solstice, our ancestors used to celebrate one of their favourite folk holidays: Kupalle. They gave thanks to the Sun, Earth and Water for its bountiful harvest washing their face and throwing a coin into the water to ward off illness.

Folklorist Yanka Kruk notes that our ancestors treated Kupalle with great caution. It was strictly forbidden to give something, sell or borrow on this day: a maxim passed from generation to generation by word of mouth.

It was considered a great sin to give or take fire or bread from a house, since it might bring poverty in future. They also believed that evil spirits awoke on Kupalle, with witches turning into frogs and mice on this night, in order to creep into barns to steal milk from cows, damage rye and generally harm people. To protect themselves, people would place nettles on the doorstep and young aspen on the barn door. A candle was fixed at the gate as a talisman and bouquets of medicinal herbs and birch branches were placed on cows’ horns to ward off evil. Blessed salt and Gromnitsy candles were also common.

Float, float, the wreath...

Staying up all night at Kupalle was also thought to confer protection, so rural residents gathered together until morning. The holiday began with making a bonfire, for which young boys spent the day collecting rotten barrels and sticks, as well as worn out clothes and footwear. A wooden stick with a rye sheaf tied to it was placed in the middle of the bonfire and the fire was brought ‘alive’ by the spark of a flint or by friction. Songs were sung around the Kupalle bonfire the whole night, with villagers dancing ‘karagods’(reels) and playing games. Young boys and girls jumped over the bonfire and bathed in water to purify themselves and protect from evil spirits. They ate Kupalle dishes, wove wreaths and told fortunes. In some places, wreaths were made only from flowers while in others, oak, birch, pine and fir twigs were woven. Wreaths also varied in their size, with smaller ones designed for the head or waist and bigger

Rarities

Flower of happiness

Some old beliefs and fortune telling rituals are less well-known nowadays. In days gone by, on Kupalle evening, if a family member were unwell, flowers would be placed inside the house wall, between the logs. If they had died by the next morning, it was thought that the ill person would also soon die. Wreaths made from Kupalle flowers were also thrown onto the roofs of houses where unmarried young people lived, so that a young boy or girl would court during the year.

One of the most famous Kupalle beliefs concerns the fern flower, which was said to only bloom on this night, for a few moments. As it opened, a heavy thunderstorm would begin, with lightning.

Finding the flower was thought to bring a host of treasures, good health and wealth, while conferring the lucky hunter with the ability to understand animals and plants.

Those bold enough to seek out the flower would have to face various evil spirits which would try to seduce them along the way in their quest to guard the fern flower’s location.

By Lyudmila Minokova

From the age of Vikings to Magdeburg Right National History Museum of Belarus displays two restored banners and Brilevsky Treasure

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two-headed eagle on the reverse, while martyred St. Onufry is depicted on a weavers’ banner, in addition to the ‘Sign of Weavers’ Council’ inscription. The

associations — known as guilds — were established in cities, granted an independent governing system. They existed until the mid-19th century, becoming guild councils after the division of Rzecz Pospolita and inclusion of Belarusian lands into the Russian Empire. Guild craftsmen were professionals who took an active part in public life, while also assuming compulsory military service and other duties.

Each guild had its own symbolic seals and banners, which usually depicted the images of saints and protectors, alongside an emblem given by the Grand Duchy of Lithuania Statute, or one which reflected the guild’s professional activity. Banners on show at the National History Museum are two-sided. One side of a musicians’ guild banner has the image of Tsar David with a lyra in his hand and a

exhibits will soon become part of the Minsk 1812 exhibition.

In total, the National History Museum is restoring seven banners from various guilds.

The rare Brilevsky Treasure collection is also on show. This largely comprises coins and other artefacts from Viking times found on Brilevsky Field near Borisov — famous as a crossing place of Napoleon’s retreating troops across the Berezina River during the Patriotic War of 1812. The treasure comprises 290 Arab dirhams and fragments, ten small weights for weighing silver, a fragment of a silver neck grivna (a torque necklace) and a Frankish sword.

The restoration of banners and the Brilevsky Treasure collection are part of a joint project by the National History Museum of Belarus and Japan Tobacco International, which provides financial assistance to the museum.

By 2013, this foreign company will have injected up to $200,000 into the museum’s cultural projects.

anners once belonging to guilds of musicians and weavers from the first half of the 19th century are among the unique exhibits on show for the first time, having required extensive and costly restoration.

In line with the Magdeburg Right, professional crafts and trade

Vitaliy Gil

for dancing ‘karagods.’ Wreaths were also thrown over the bonfire and floated along the river, with the fate of the wreath’s owner forecast by the wreath’s ‘behaviour.’ If the wreath immediately sank to the bottom, the young girl wouldn’t marry that year; if it floated further and smoothly, she would have a happy marriage.

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Theatrepremieres

Art of reconstruction The Yanka Kupala National Academic Theatre has premiered The Abduction of Europe, or Ursula Radziwill’s Theatre, staged by its artistic leader, Nikolay Pinigin.

After staging Wincent DuninMarcinkiewicz’s engaging Pinsk Gentry and serious Translations, by Ireland’s Brian Friel, which boasts similarities to THE 20th century Belarusian drama, the theatre decided to try a comedy

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he performance’s three parts — a ballet, an opera and a commedia d e l l ’a r t e ( a n Italian comedy) recreates a theatrical evening at Nesvizh Castle.

E ach is linked by playful miniperformances, performed by young actors Valentina Gar tsue va and Alexander Kozello. Recently, these Yanka Kupala Theatre young actors received a prize as best acting duo at the Slavonic Theatrical Meetings Festival, for their performance of Alexander Gartsuev’s Not Mine.

All three parts of the performance, interpreted by contemporary Belarusian playwright Sergey Kovalev, prove that a truly European theatre

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existed in Nesvizh in the mid-18th century. Its repertoire included ballet, opera and Ursula Radziwill’s commedia dell’arte. She was wife to the owner of Nesvizh Castle, Michał Kazimierz Radziwiłł Rybeńko. Curiously, Ursula Radziwill’s works possess irony and, even, sarcasm when referring to the imperfections of human nature and the frailty of human passions: acute themes centuries later. Her situational comedy is a genre still successful in modern theatre; A Too-Married Taxi Driver, # 13 and Boeing-Boeing are written in a similar manner.

Director Nikolay Pinigin again shows us his views on national identity and self-awareness through laughter and tears. His verdict can sometimes seem pessimistic and bitter, but this staging is not one such example. “For me, the play is contemporary, showing

how public consciousness is influenced,” he explained to journalists on the eve of the premiere. “Belarusians must change their consciousness, ridding themselves of complexes and returning to a European outlook.

We’ve had enough talk of clogs and rushniks!”

Set designer Olga Matskevich agrees, creating a world down to the tiniest detail; the costumes are bright and alive, like animated comics with their own character. You cannot help but notice every aspect.

Undoubtedly, after the curtain falls, you relive scenes from The Abduction of Europe. Its palette of colour is so vivid that the performance has its own special character and aesthetic nature, living and breathing. It is currently being staged at the Central House of Officers as the Kupala Theatre is

Theatrepremieres

Alexander Dmitriyev

undergoing reconstruction; however, the alternative stage is embracing the ‘Kupala Theatre’ spirit.

The Abduction of Europe is so full of irony that it seems nobody speaks seriously; the plot and set accentuate this quality while composer Andrey Zubrich’s 18th century style score seems entirely authentic. The melodies transport us to another age, in which we can imagine playing our own part.

The Kupala Theatre actors sing a great deal and very well.

Yulia Shpilevskaya — a true ‘star’ of the performance — plays her role regally, while whimsical Olga Nefedova reinforces the comedic effect. Svetlana Zelenkovskaya, embracing the grotesque, isn’t afraid of being ridiculous, while Sergey Zhuravel, the image of sickly merchant Banut, is deceived by ever yone except his young wife. It is another quaint character for him after playing the Halfwitted Jourdain at the Youth Theatre. Flexible Harlequin, performed by Alexander Kozello, adds some stylish harmony and a peculiar rhythm to everything happening on stage. Like a street barker, he finds the correct intonation for speaking to the audience — not false or vulgar, simply confidently witty.

Everything resembles a true Venetian carnival; nothing can be taken for granted, with masks swapped in rapid rhythm. Animals remove fairy spells and turn into wonderful princes while Nesvizh’s y ou n g g i r l s tu r n i nt o eastern beauties. Wheathaired shepherdesses sigh of love to the tune of the zhaleika (a wind instrument). Moreover, this true

human comedy mocks the imperfections of theatrical genres. Life is broader than theatre. The director asks us to see how everything is conventional and unstable. How appealing is this smartly invented illusion?

Will the performance be understandable to European audiences? Of course, no other performance in the repertoire of the Yanka Kupala National Academic Theatre reminds us so much of the common European roots of the Belarusian, Polish and Lithuanian theatres. Certainly, our theatrical art

somehow loses to our neighbours from Lithuania and Poland but perhaps our theatre can make a breakthrough, despite failing to always do well at international festivals.

It sometimes seems that stage directors of the older generation have satisfied all their ambitions, while their younger colleagues are satisfied with independent performances. However, we want to believe that there will be a breakthrough — evident to critics and ordinary spectators. With such a brilliant

Will the performance be understandable to European audience? O f course, no other performance in the repertoire of the Yanka Kupala National Academic Theatre reminds us so much of the common roots of B elarusian , Polish and L ithuanian theatres

legacy, our theatre should not fade.

Something ground breaking is due; we simply need passion and clear understanding of our own theatrical identity. We shouldn’t lose ourselves between the East and the West; we should rather absorb the very best o f c o nt e mp o r a r y w o r l d theatre, reshaping it to suit ourselves, with extreme dedication to detail.

Myths, traditions and national materials are a good foundation for continuing progress. It’s not enough for us to just transfer a historical play to the stage; rethinking is necessary. We hope that The Abduction of Europe will inspire young stage directors to further investigate Belarusian theatrical material, presenting more of these unique plots.

A scene from performance

By Valentin Pepelyayev

2011 беларусь.belarus

51

Career

Light night Leila Ismailova recognised in Minsk, Athens and Paris

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Al

ex

ander

R uzhechka

eila Ismailova is an unusual girl. She studies at the Belarusian State University’s Institute of Journalism but, unlike most of her peers, is already making significant steps in her career as a Belarusian TV host.

Her star rose in late 2010, when she demonstrated her artistic potential to the full while hosting Junior Eurovision-2010 in Minsk. This May, she was awarded the national ‘Televershina’ award for her work, in addition to the title of ‘Best Host of a Musical Entertainment Programme’. In September, Leila will again appear on TV, participating in Fight of the Titans — shot near Paris.

She’s already well known in Greece, having studied there and regularly participated in fashion shows.

Leila is also i nv o l v e d i n social projects.

We share a cup of tea and chat, allowing me to find out more about this extraordinary young woman.

Leila, what does your name mean?

It is translated as ‘night’ from Arabic. I’m an Azerbaijani by nationality and love Eastern

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culture. My father originates from Nagorny Karabakh while my mother is a Belarusian. My mother, sister and brother returned to Minsk during the war between Armenia and Azerbaijan in the early 1990s, so I grew up in Minsk. I studied Belarusian, which I love, but also know well the history of my homeland.

At the age of twenty, when you had just started your studies at the Belarusian State University, you implemented a project entitled Moral Intimacy; it even received a church blessing. Why do you get involved with such projects?

My goal is to explain to teenagers that intimacy should not result in abortion or catching an STD. My project aims to encourage good relations between men and women; it’s an issue receiving huge global attention just now. Much depends on the actions of teenagers and their choices when it comes to relationships. Moreover, on the eve of ‘Eurovision’, I participated in a UNICEF project devoted to physically and mentally disabled children, alongside those from disadvantaged or broken families. It aimed to show that former ‘Eurovision’ participants and winners are ready to offer support and friendship.

You probably have many fans.

How do you ‘cope’ with them?

Fans don’t hinder me. Can someone who sincerely sympathises with you and wishes you the best be boring or a hindrance? I agree that it’s quite

Career difficult to explain diplomatically your unwillingness to form true friendships with strangers. I’m always afraid of offending people. Of course, I’ve many times faced gossip but I prefer to keep away from such rumours. Let evil people revel in them alone; I’d rather ignore them. Of course, I learn lessons from such experiences but, more often, I meet wonderful, reliable people who help me greatly. I’d never achieve all I do independently.

D o y ou hav e a compli cate d character?

I’m very individualistic, so I’ve always fought for my personal space.

I never had my own room as a child, so would go to my parents’ or sister’s room to build my own den, using walls of books: it was my own world.

I remember my mother once leaving me alone with a younger brother, for a short time. I suddenly decided that our flat needed rearranging, so my brother and I moved a heavy wardrobe from one corner to the other! Not long ago, I tried to shift this wardrobe again, with my sister… and failed!

Where did you learn such good English?

English is a very beautiful language, as is French. I like its tone and melody. I had a teacher from London who always drilled me, saying that, if I pronounced a word incorrectly, I’d remember her and feel shame. It’s of great importance to me to speak true British English, showing that Belarus has not only beautiful ladies but a high level of education, being part of Europe and the European community. I want others to know that local people can speak perfect English and that it’s not difficult for us: it’s natural.

How do you view the Belarusian education system?

Wonderful teachers lecture at our Institute of Journalism. Some inspire me greatly

and I’d like to continue studying at the Department, probably entering a post-graduate course. I see our level of humanitarian education as being very high — especially of culture and language. It has helped me to develop and choose various professions related to being ‘on camera’. For example, I can work as a model or in advertising.

The fundamentals of my personality were formed at the Belarusian State University’s Lyceum, over three years of study. I was told: ‘You are the future elite of Belarus. Do everything to prove yourselves worthy of this title’. The mood at the Lyceum was so wonderful, with everyone trying their hardest to do well.

Someone’s good example was always on show. Of course, the level of lecturing was extremely high. As regards the Institute of Journalism, my favourite subjects are art and literary classics. I adore the latter, which inspired me to study in Greece.

Leila, Junior Eurovision opened your path to TV. How did you come to apply for the job of host?

I went to the casting for ‘Eurovision’ host without thinking I’d actually win. I was hugely surprised to know that I was a favourite. People believed in me!

Would you like to host adult Eurovision?

I don’t know. It was easy for me to host a junior contest

as I love children and am quite childish myself. I like to try something new, so I might give it a go. I’ve recently returned from Paris. ‘Fight of the Titans’ is a serious show but I managed it.

How do you keep fit?

In Greece, I took Latin dancing.

Moreover, I adore swimming and I go to the gym, spending a great deal of time on the treadmill. You may not believe it but I put on weight easily; I can put on an additional couple of kilos without any problem! In childhood, I was very shy — even afraid to speak in public. There was no talk of a career in modelling or TV hosting then.

However, my tenacity brought me to my goal. I think that appearance is extremely important for any woman but beauty is more than skin deep.

God gives us a beautiful face but we also need to behave beautifully and take care of ourselves.

What do you do in your spare time?

Dancing is my passion. I’m yet to choose a specific genre though. When attending a ballet class, I was mad on the bar, gentle pliés and classic fiveposition exercises. While dancing hip-hop, I feel free and independent.

I’ve even learnt the fundamentals of disco. I’m attracted by everything; as a butterfly, I fly to every new trend.

What are your plans for the future?

As regards my professional activity, I’d like to continue my career as a model. In Greece, I was among the most popular Top Class International Agency models. Of course, I’d like to continue my education. As I have the time and the opportunity, I’d like to develop in so many areas: artistically, intellectually and personally. I’m also pleased with my work on Belarusian TV and might travel abroad — probably, to Los Angeles; I have many friends there.

Some might be surprised by such a long list of wishes but I believe that, if I make the effort, everything will come true!

By Viktor Korbut

2011 беларусь.belarus

53

Sportive character

Everything still lies ahead The European Basketball Championship hasn’t been a success for the Belarusian team. After losing to Turkey in the final match of the group stage, our girls lost out on their chance to go through to the Olympics in London. However, women’s basketball still has many fans and interest continues to grow in this new ‘phenomenon’.

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n 1923, Belarusian basketball was born, with Subbotnik men’s club appearing in Vitebsk. We have no idea when the first female team appeared but all the most prominent achievements in Belarusian women’s basketball are connected with Minsk’s Horizont team. Its history is divided into ‘before’ and ‘after’.

Initially, the team enjoyed victories over skilled Soviet basketballers and began taking part in European tournaments. It produced three Olympic champions and most of the players are still making history on our national squad. A new stage in the legendary club’s history began only recently – just one year ago. The Minsk team was brought back from ruin, uniting most of the players from the national squad, including its main coach, Anatoly Buyalsky. It became the Belarusian champion in the first season and we have no doubt that a bright future lies ahead - no less glorious or intriguing.

Semen Khalipsky

Semen Khalipsky is a legend in Belarusian basketball; Horizont’s ‘blossoming’ is closely connected with his name.

Among his pupils are Olympic champions Tatiana Beloshapko, Irina Sumnikova and

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Ye l e n a Shvaibovich, many-time Europ e an and worl d champion Galina Savistaksya, as well as world silver medallist Irina Guba and other

Sportive character outstanding female basketball players. It was no surprise that, in choosing the best basketball coach of the 1980s, specialists and journalists were unanimous in naming Mr. Khalipsky. He created Belarus’ own basketball school known across Europe and worldwide.

It is perhaps Mr. Khalipsky who can claim the most significant achievement in the contemporary history of Belarusian basketball, rather than Anatoly Buyalsky. In 1995, the Belarusian national team, headed

by Mr. Khalipsky, came fourth during a qualification tournament, one place short of reaching Europe’s major tournament.

This doesn't negate his contribution to the current victories of the country’s most

Belarusian team sports. Although the squad failed to bring home a medal from there, they did well.

“We’ve always had a good women’s basketball team,” explains Mr. Khalipsky.

“After the USSR collapsed, we managed to preserve our leading players at the level our female basketball players demonstrate today. This shows consistency and indicates that we should build on our success.”

To the stars through difficulties

When we speak about the national squad, we often mean Mr. Buyalsky. He created a unique team from scratch, earning us a reputation worldwide. The team was one

Yes, sometimes we lose or don’t demonstrate our best basketball. However, you can see that the girls are straining every sinew, leaving their hearts and souls on the courts. They ’ll definitely achieve the desired results, although maybe not today successful squad. Under Khalipsky’s leadership, our young girls claimed silver at the European Junior Championship in 2003 and we can be confident that they’ll repeat this success in future.

A dream team

In 2007, most of us were astonished at the phenomenon of Belarusian women’s basketball. Sparkling teams regularly appear on the European basketball horizon. At the recent European Championships, teams from Montenegro and Croatia played brilliantly, to everyone’s surprise. Just like our Belarusian girls in 2007, they defeated their well-heeled rivals from Spain and Lithuania, making forecasters scratch their heads in bewilderment. However, the Belarusian team is a phenomenon of a different type.

Established many years ago, the squad trained in the style of leading Russian and European clubs. It took bronze at the European Championship and even reached the Olympics and World Championship – a first in the history of

of the leaders before the current European Championship, yet our dreams failed to come true. According to the coach, our girls’ mistakes come from the same source as their previous victories: enthusiasm.

“I’ve said before and I repeat now that the ninth place in Europe would have been perceived as a great success just a few years ago,” notes Mr. Buyalsky. “Of course, now, we have different targets. I don’t have the heart to call our performance a failure. If I did, it would mean that I’d lost touch with reality. However, we should understand that the national team has a different lineup than before.”

Stars attract luck

Of course, the girls are admired for their emotions and beauty – even envied by their rivals. Their extravagant uniforms shocked audiences two years ago but, at the last European Championship, they tried them on for the final time, promising to invent something new. They are known for their openness. Never before has Belarus had a team appear so much in magazines, on bill-

boards and on TV; their relationship with fans is impressive.

Yelena Levchenko won the ‘PR of the Year’ nomination, being both successful and beautiful. She is a unique personality and a great player, being the only representative of Belarusian basketball to have ‘conquered’ the world’s strongest league – that of the Women’s National Basketball Association.

Yet Yelena has kept her feet on the ground somehow, despite her huge collection of titles and awards. She eagerly organises and comperes charity matches between journalists and representatives of sponsorship companies. Being the most valuable player at most of the tournaments in which she takes part, she enthusiastically accepts invitations to organise master classes. She recently spent all day at one Minsk school, patiently teaching children the basics of basketball.

With her own Internet site and plenty of fans, she devotes time to writing her own blog and column, while giving interviews.

She ‘lost herself ’ at the European Championship in Poland’s Bydgoszcz but perhaps deserves less criticism than her team mates, having taken part despite an injury. Her operation was scheduled for immediately after her return so she might easily have used this as a reason to bow out from the event. Nevertheless, she decided to attend and played wholeheartedly; she could have undoubtedly won a ‘For Courage’ medal. “Yes, we sometimes lose or don’t demonstrate our best basketball. However, you can see that the girls are straining every sinew, leaving their hearts and souls on the court. They’ll definitely achieve the desired results, although maybe not today,” noted Yelena after returning from Poland.

Revamped Belarusian basketball, which has achieved more in its twenty years than basketball in any other leading country, is gradually gaining recognition worldwide.

Our female basketball players are doing their best and are confident that they’ll be able to at least repeat their success of four years ago at the European Championship in France, in 2013. The most vital thing is for them to believe in themselves; it is the secret of this team - a team we can’t help but love.

By Denis Komarovsky

2011 беларусь.belarus

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Mosaic

World is beautiful when we’re together International Slavonic Unity-2011 Festival of Slavonic Nations takes place near Friendship Monument, at border of Belarus, Russia and Ukraine

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he event was attended by official delegations from the border regions of our three Slavonic countries, as well as participants of the international Druzhba-2011 (Friendship) youth tent camp. The Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, Kirill, was also among the honorary guests of the festival.

A traditional festival, organised by Russia this year, was held under the slogan ‘The World is Beautiful When We are Together: a World of Faith, Brotherhood and Love!’ Meanwhile, the forum included a festival for the historic towns of Bryansk, Chernigov and Gomel regions. They met near the Friendship Monument, enjoying sporting competitions and a concert by famous performers and popular bands. Numerous guests visited the creative stands of Belarusian, Russian and Ukrainian regions, particularly ‘The Planet of Childhood’ and ‘Space and Us’, while trade fairs offered a wide range of goods by domestic, Russian and Ukrainian manufacturers.

The International Slavonic Unity-2011 Festival of Slavonic Nations, held near the Friendship Monument, on the border of Belarus, Russia and Ukraine, is the biggest international event for our three countries and has won great popularity far beyond the border areas.

Delegations from the Gomel, Bryansk and Chernigov regions first met in 1969 and, in 1975, the Friendship Monument was erected; now, each year, the holiday brings together dozens of thousands of guests.

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Tangible shades of imagination Republican Theatre of Belarusian Drama stages final premiere of the season

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he plot of The Happy Husband — a musical comedy based on a play by prominent Belarusian political and cultural figure Frantishek Olekhnovich — takes

Seaside in Berlin blue Minsk master Natalia Yevmenenko takes photos in Berlin blue

place in Western Belarus in the 1920s.

A young and dreamy noblewoman, Magdalena, tired of life and her predictable husband, Gaudent, decides to indulge in a love affair with Duke Matsalsky. She is even ready to leave her husband but Gaudent won’t surrender so quickly…

While writing the play, Mr. Olekhnovich was in the grip of serious family difficulties himself (his wife wanted to leave him); accordingly, his feelings clearly transfer to the tone of the comedy, in which women are presented as egoistic and self-righteous.

The Happy Husband is based on true events from the playwright’s life, when he, as a poor young artiste, had to pretend to be a ‘celebrity’ at a middle-class house.

Polish producer Stanisław Potocki once wanted to bring Mr. Olekhnovich’s work to the big screen, with famous American actor Charles Boyer in the leading role. However, these plans were interrupted by WW2 astronomer John Herschel invented this method of photographic printing back in 1842, allowing shots to be given a blue tone. Beforehand, a similar technology was used to dye fabrics. Now, this ancient and rather simple method is in fashion

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round 30 works are on show at the Ultramarine exhibition at the Modern Fine Arts Museum in Minsk.

“I’m an economist by education,” notes the photographer. “However, after graduating from the Belarusian State Economic University, I worked only three months within my speciality.

Unexpectedly, I became keen on photography and independently mastered my new profession. Now, I can’t imagine my life without photography. My favourite place is a small town near Odessa; the Ultramarine series was created there. It’s a surprisingly poetic corner and I wanted to make it even more beautiful. This is how the blueprint appeared. English

again. It creates photos in shades of blue to indigo, tinged with sepia.”

Natalia is most keen on Berlin blue: a colour which suits her mountain landscapes. Moreover, to capture mountains, she has climbed many herself.