Belarus (magazine #12 2018) by BELARUS Magazine

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No. 12 (1023), 2018 Беларусь. Belarus

belarus Politics. Economy. Culture

ISSN 2415-394X

moving into — 2019!

Newspaper from Belarus

Голас Радзімы edition of the “Голас Радзімы” is available at www.zviazda.by

The newspaper for fellow countrymen: well-known and well-read Газета з БелаРусі

Голас Радзімы Голас Радзімы пятніца, 14 снежня, 2018

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А яно та к ое: скія м а ш ы ў Бе л а р у с і, мы імк н ем с я пе в г д ы я zd я ы зе з нар жос ры од ае l ма д сво к а ы х к кі элемент не ы Яра лабе р буд між ыга Ма уключыць ларус несці ў гарадскія ўмовы, адаптавацьпда н a. , 23 л ір Р тн і ”ч р ы ы я ы у by іс р р. 5лій.Ладзімкірмашякмасаваеым т на е пр 018” куровінцыал нкнаай спад ы закуль матэрыяльнай тур су чася ныхрэа ню кр га та с м а Ч ве рс у 2 ім а ц у ін л т х п а р о С та,уасновеякога—даўніятраі с ку ет чыны“Святкаваннуеўго п ф ка ад разны п на га наріко Ста й” дз мраоднаесвя в там ай н а, вів Маці Божай Будслаўсікай дыцыі як гандлю, так і вясёлых гулянняў. ко іс с евіч? адлё айск ойдзе евіч віцца т р. 5 бел(Будс 20 Ра іл М 18 лаўскіфэст)”уРэпрэзента таыў КірмаштакіўДаўгаўпілсеўпершынюпрай “ асіл ерад ьякіт пр Вас оста шмаку, р нсыаецца ас В П ан дзе ыя шт Бо оў “ С спіс нематэрыяльнай культурнуай шоў у 2011 годзе, перарос у міжнародны кіх ол с ад нь, Мар ам, ы: ыхт й — Іва “Г нЖ гор йна су, ліст рац падр маё амім а суп упра спадчынычалавецтва. форум, які збірае самадзейныя беларускія да Ха нкур урна да п у лькі на с ацц цоў На о не но гуртызрозныхкраін.Восьмыпалікуфэст Хто яшчэ не чуў, што та А л в о о н в д к с т іл — дп к лаж я ак іч с е й ла ус зы За ў дадаў у сваю яркую палітру новыя фарбы, кое Будслаўскі фэст, а таксама тр Пр ніцтв за яго на ы н . То вык отка штоБа в ае г ало аl да е я э д с зе ц с ч е П а в ц ц у о ыб ы д лад пра нды ба оад ам ецн лар ца акд ы фарматы,знаёмствы.Доўжыўсядвадні,ад шматтысячныяпілігрымкізроз да ал ень Вы Пр 5г айк а Бел ук ат ама трэ аст е, т аўляс овы а усі , сам ан зн ы эз 95 Ас есс са Як крыўся ў ЦБК канферэнцыяй “Культурны ныхкуткоўБеларусідызамеж Ад ідэ з1 алл ару шм яе к се ньн сяб даст ш феыр ццяпр з Ірк саб атат Ро раз ы та я рач ндр пры ыд нтў Даўгаўпілсе а р к уц“Беларускім а іншыя артысты о мост:Латвія—Літва—Эстонія—Расія— жадасвятыні—паглядзіцехаця Гурт кірмашы” ца сі ус “Купалінка” б н Лу кл а аБ ку дзе аць ды я ага е к на Го зін з н к ю аў пр . л оўыжм І н ец п аасза тыў ай , ка вы ел кон жны адав ец цці” Прадяліпўаізм во чы тар. 2 Ста ы Беларусь”. Гэта быў цікавы абмен ідэямі, бунэцешматлікіявідэасюжеты. д пер а агаза каш э д па ар да к ан ы кіп рнэ у сляаадвнедурмал роз вобл лі с плы а й р. 8 шк мель нАс ко бе ёт тнурным к аім ў, дзі Даўгаўпіл онзайк пес ўш С р н а тася ш рус сі Над х куль а род завязванне новых кантактаў між прадстаў пілскія гурты: кж ай на “Будслаўскіфэст—гэтаадзінз вы ,які шоўдв ода“нка пспяхо суа. ,я рзод Вы не кілаш зГ зу рсе лкаСр ярпрідыэныкоэднзійнныілік аб уд ыхс сц ю лав што ол ск ка жы пуск ўна ап Мо рыв вай Бе у , за енн ок”,ва на няа уБе г еар ктааль а звы фе і Паў ацавналь ра ннкы“Ля а а н ь ні к а м ідэ л е г а ц ыйадпя ц ікра і н. “Ку п а л ін к а”,тан сім в а л аў бе л а р ус к ай ідэн т ыч ч ай н ы м оц н ы Ам б а с а д ар е ы б д т м в ы л р с ги Б л а а ц ер т емд ы елы ісць ег і анн р ах мя ома а ц наніцагіз ц Як зак ў П сам туп ад у ле ёў раб Ге лар ! я дзіыУ“Пра ко есялцес т апр ч асю ан ,а втак арауда ла зБў Лат : уМарцкоы я. в— вятдаючынат насці,—чытаемнасайцеМЗС. на ус ЗадоўгадапачаткуГалаканцэртаўфае наінструменталь с:а ііаВа вйіч, яна пгранаа уп рэ алё ны кц ы вли ств оты ,аусі Ба реа Л на ві еўм іль Бельк і”, п м я т П а м е -п з зе д м я ы к р с н х а ц д о а ы ф л ч л р т і за ро лАарр тэарадотраль пе ную рк дл малю — амСвяткаванне адбываецца А м аа а рэс лы ўдна”, аіўцаб’ мду,Тпад гіанк аіргра а яд Мналь ДомаАдзінстваўжобылошматлюдна.Там харавая капэла “Спад бо ўы в і, а дэнт, аМ год іІрк тма р энн Ал пр ў ча зь К раг ікіаз ная цэ цачызн а прлыякса інс к А,ш тоеп гра го інс р з’я патр , у Ірк інач.н ісуясьа,лдьн ыя уавран а . М пврагк уі п ытво так ра С21 зепл уцка шУ е зб як сп эст рго ара рам , Гі д арнабе ка лаўрускаа іл іцга,нумеЦэнт разгарнуласярамеснаявыстава,наякойна студыя“Паўлінка”.Упес турсыіБе улартус уе о кайкуль юц 0кгарнанях,тан б гаІр атмасф галвьш рьэант е цркы ўсеагульнай па ов а упцахітэ дат ц юз гаа ляюц ав ан куцк зав адп р артн рчас сама згля .Бе ануе г аав соль о ра або ыжн вую ткев іст сцубперрадр аЛюсус асвя р азе ай аб’ядноўвае роз лра дкы а дмдл і,ўу кптаэр ата 12бпыўлюс р ыл нспуа родныяўмельцызМёраў,Браслава,Дуброў ральныхмініяцюрах,ні бы, варыства “Уздым” ва в бяокіу,бач ца ыя й адруж вялрікўай т аз пра й а о вя во чсаунартіл д, ыем ёра ц і пра дае лар у рас іяз а е”. прўсёй — ноыя нёе г Ам з — рніц ых пер іч а чд клаа,с асдыс ыйц ьве дн ыата ука трэч т ерэ мл у і а б бл незалежна п ые нге, р анмая нуы жпа облюдзей, во не і м нав па ма сь, п ач в о к фая ел пвы ер у з тва між ам тры ай на р ванш льм у захМаван ыжыінцчсьы абліхнов с твы м ныпаказалітворыдэкаратыўнапрыкладно як духоўная, так і мачтаэ намяан арцы, гру ад рйа ш раэн а ыі скі ас .еПкттаспад , ль і дэы ны ы о с ур М гпр аавс ацс ій дзеіама м а энкі ц інс мс тв экал цьув да.П ўт об ар ус ласц і ы , ог ін нуе гчы прад аць Шяль цьза на Ён кі. луча х. н наро гу н к”віі.АМі краус улігій ус ла дд турыўЛат дз і погляцдіаў, пса а о ела яюго а цы га мастацтва, далі майстаркласы. Вялікую беларусаў.ЦягамгодБашто м есптряцусвой“Ку рэ лс ю то зуН я в ат уц кі. к м аністаэр ыа краыз бгуо зіаі,кгазачлізбе к ных ккбайкуль а ны а г дн а ю пр ўніц . Яш ў “Б гічн г уін рэзід сы в іяБ трад Пр дарц да ацы ыт во акса ь бы З б аа пе сць оў бо роз ужо э ыкцытірэрчэнг та рсаагата а р у сарцандэянат м чуывам лкюр р л у е х Ш эты ых у а т а р ь ы с ы , х к р ці к а в асць вы к лі к аў прэ з ен т а ц ый н ы стол фарбе л а р ус к іхскар б аў”мысклад в а л ісак на г аста т у с уйген д эр н ыхад р оз ства за м еж н ых спраў Бе л а р у с і ад з на ч ы л а э э ы э і а н ц е а е м г і ку ы,ай ггл с юсту ейуц льін адам апю св ўза цоў ва, чэ лк а юп ано нтп тво лАЗ ра зід , то ўза яна рчы аі ь а л ар ац ы іх пр н іц ых не ц гамт а іён аі а с знда тцц25га ів гншавы та ыя адн м анваяўмза н насць ет вы рч ы, “Уз ву няў”. р ем дьвы “Адкрый для сябе Беларусь”: рэкламныя ральныя аўтэнтычныя вауюц па уюкадзей бехл оевм на сійск энт, ў емад льна я ма Авія дп а уск а ю ме агра твах між ра . спя та у ра нен агтыя а ач К аз йлр дао дзе ая бабл г асвцш Аліп рацбяоы: дн еп одвзеая з х го ым нма дукц юсу апан асц і г у а у аавтыай—запод о Бе зе га р ведн г а із найадсыцюа.ўкС а а аль “В водс імі рКдА Да льс к мав а п нар з пе і м прцлы меясы, ш” ыюУклю буклетыхуткаразышліся.Можнабылоаб ручнікі, плеценыя Гопа час чаэн адс ійымян ынма оГ на ваўнеўспісЮНЕС Ро това р м ск а гадн л ав о думпіксірам ып тве эг свед лару яння аэра тнас ам яркг іху”Га лін аг а нн а а ,цшай ды авреов од рам жсняц н кбайгра он ыя юялдьіту,ннтыя п а а е я іт н у н а я ў і і п й в к н ы с к , л і. т в с а н ц н і е і т ё с е , с а ую гадод ы ныід аэвра аоМі ас Ма к л дбасу, укнаайна уп і ў ў ор і я ны кяія Ула ў, йа рыа к е русы,ды мя янсое ад янды,іль йймкіра ке кдоЁзі ш няць кнігу на беларускай мове (збіраем касцюмы,тканыяаб п ея.х Ам “ днпікшмат марка —вы а вінмнес гат вайсу ма аў д каг а выкл Гэт спар ых с аг аў а ліва рёал парлаенніст сац інвал нцаьм р н мі ў рац жо сел таМ ког ум л л нашч радп прае раўн ож м д Шта рад , аЛреўі с усо ым мпо аўзна вае бачл іятэку!) на сувенір, пабачыць багаты палатно,кілУім ым ты ты п ліз ка овынб а , я ад а ь ў.ў ую тар .йчМ іч о ор л цы На кі…Тыяру наль ай вор в ісаіі а рэаты я гароду Жанне Ра а пра ныяскар шыў цыя— анн ьз вуру з учы ыбхы атр тк сха побіб раік л ў вы п кіх еда енні жыв ўніц ёсць, скай інск Кяго ш ц ый алім кі р ч ык вучан ўн ы а Бк лаекс су аць рые ктаўуіны ста я су дл ер каз паахЮНЕС юотм адзФ пасртавк а іх Сус ярж е з ье Бтеыш да в н рыацрасма ць пе ёл тв масікай, мс дымгу”.і р Бе ч а чалле ам увр ам а ы ц ларпусіпаспра наканцкэр ляігле оў д ад ірКА, лця ь м га . п а і, на а к п й рункаміпрыроды,сабранымійна м а,па л р еП е ус, лі!ізкуф а нцеда а аряуп ер а сцц сен іжадэл ллісякая і н сіх столзда с н еса“Уз тв цю э а эал ьпе ра ўА ў,што крэс зяліц одн ,што рада агад а з нагад с М р атк олу раг іяда хтуе Міх го ро ла ств лідн Удзель на бел ых н су зачру кыан к ні ў ас рааф ы м яаўігас усунейфэс сі, яктіяуві р асамта ін ка . м ык— й Мін ал такцсамаы талпатак о в і крультур➔ы, аст тыамванымі сябрамі беларускай суполкі дачаам. я ПМЗС, шэ за с бвеелт аабсру алріасм ямі дн у а ў па шко аіл а ме іхаіл ев іч й п рам нрых ёй інва ат ных пенці эогцьгяажцьм ьо. і КБ пас іў А аўс хлю мыс ыхт ўлі,р шы аў ўР пр і л амы “Амк сфе зац ы а ш ды — еплы в р д ц о н д р ў . ч р в у л р н а з ы а а е С с м р м , ім с ш л е с т п е жкраальна агакон а Фэстад р ы яц овыхор л эх аш ” ц ш ні кон улса н сс дбар о укмрыўпер в не кх ветнікГе т аамес на ьс к Ся Ад айш анн інф ь т а а лсатваад ймяс е д янікстар і я ды,су тгаанаўула з ы ы “Уз пе дсіым”.6 кеаына сіі айшл сс ауль н дзя ая м ш йчы лі й сці, аам:б праанктцаа чрээ ш леяплацгайв вы еш я д к а усаў і р. лару ховы яксан тым зей. авім нало аслі рП бн дае оў і.Я ар у 52 н а р в іко ор” .Ан ды ітўавна й птаал айпскойду лала 3 ц рдад сяпіл ку ал ынхчэ!Тазм ёт Даўагдаў ііо ў Даў р ьм сьу гпанідр ,ш М сяд гій — ш ён цсйкайга га сж 2 эн ую тэму ў тэатралізаванаму лю н ім ар Асноў тйн піл но сталя Пус а Ра га асцяў,няўра2давыхар Граосе На жы нк гааў р н енл ааыІгарПрэ н ж лыава.ў поль ры лі хв . іП ч ел дзіваг і,Нешячэж2ыв цаеам: яыкгон ма Ген ад кола авічу м н Ген кр аз зе галаканцэрта вялі даўкгааў адупама ыгаСтар. жа даў Бел зіўн ай жо рык Лу тоў ыза ав . ід рпарэ п, её к наль б пв ьча зей оарў. ў, ко выя ўл яц аін оап хто ў Прза е 1фар зі ат наы ў н есад р в які нсауўні ь ур яго м ла ка н ўс ас ка нае дру ня аў зыч я зкна д ,ряачыў сь я ы од рэз нім ў ь ч ыцый,экспертаў. атаў, ад0 ям T ўп адзь ч у ўп :м але адзь р да пр➔ рэл уд 4 ыг ш р 7 эн 8

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contents

Беларусь. Belarus Social and political magazine № 12 (1023), December, 2018 Published since 1930 Founders: Zviazda Publishing House editorialand-publishing establishment Editor-in-Chief: Viktor Kharkov Executive Secretary: Valentina Zhdanovich

Union reposes on equality of conditions

Initiative aimed at development

16 Secret of Great Stone 11

Right to become a volunteer 75 percent of 2nd European Games staff are volunteers. The Head of the Volunteer Services Department for the 2nd European Games Directorate, Nadezhda Anisovets, announces volunteer figures at extended session of interdepartmental co-ordination council

Unanimous decision Budslav Festival registered on List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

Giants from Nalibokskaya Pushcha UN Development Programme is improving conditions for European bison — the Belarusian forest symbol

First Green Office Venue encouraging sustainable development integrated into everyday life

Friends united by one road Museum of one of the world’s largest media — The People’s Daily (Rénmín Rìbào) in China — has a display dedicated to its joint project with Zviazda Publishing House, as outlined by a memorandum signed by the editorial offices of the two newspapers

www.zviazda.by E-mail: belarus.mag@mail.ru Subscription index — 74977 Registration Certificate No. 8 issued on 16.07.2018, by the Information Ministry of the Republic of Belarus Design and Layout by Tatiana Storozhenko Liubou Malyshava Proof-reader Alisa Gungor Беларусь. Belarus is published in Belarusian, English and Chinese. The magazine is distributed to 50 countries worldwide. Final responsibility for factual accuracy and interpretation lies with publication authors. Should any article of Беларусь. Belarus be used, reference to the magazine is obligatory. The editorial office does not bear responsibility for contents of advertisements. Signed for printing on 21.12.2018 Offset printing. Coated paper. Format 60х84 1⁄8. Conventional printed sheets 6,51 Accounting published sheets

Total circulation — 1,648 copies (784 — in English)

Order Divimax JSC Licence No. 02330/53, as of 14.02.2014 220007 Minsk, Belarus, 125 Aerodromnaya Street

Encouraging tourism Minsk Guest Card for 2nd European Games — a very interesting project for tourists

Editorial office address: 220013 Minsk, Belarus, 10a Bogdan Khmelnitsky Street Tel.: +375 (17) 287-19-19, +375 (17) 292-66-92 Тel./fax: +375 (17) 287-15-26.

Meaningful image

Cover designed by Liubou Malyshava

беларусь. belarus 2018

more in the issue 1 2

беларусь. belarus 2018

32 Frantishek Zhilka: ‘I don’t preach to the winds’ 39

British presents a guidebook to Belarus

Lawyer and writer Nigel Roberts shows his edition at the Sports and Tourism Ministry of Belarus

‘Lighting up’ hundred percent

Delicacy of paper laces Vytinanka is the art of cutting paper to create a lace effect, most often creating snowflakes that are attached at windows through the Christmas and New Year holiday. However, those who are skilled can make all manner of designs. Professor Yevgeny Sakhuta, a researcher of Belarusian folk culture, singles out Molodechno Vytinanka as a separate phenomenon

Badminton is a real sport In September, Minsk hosted the International Badminton Tournament — Belarus International — for the first time. With results counting towards the 2nd European Games, being held in Minsk in 2019, the event allowed competitors to view their rivals

Diploma holders with balalaika Female Balalaika octet — ‘Vitebsk Virtuosos’ — among winners at National Collection 1st International Contest-Festival of Ensembles in St. Petersburg, impressing the international jury with their full sound and original arrangement

Pleasure, beauty, inspiration… ‘Masterpieces of Сhoral Operatic Music’ concert at Bolshoi Theatre of Belarus — which is traditionally presented every two or three years — unites not only a modern repertoire but works from the past

Hot december

`` Information brings benefit

`` Interest in partnership

Possibilities for investors in Great Stone Chinese-Belarusian Industrial Park and Belarusian free economic zones presented in Swiss Horn

Co-operation with Belarus in IT sphere is attractive for France

within the machine building com plex, as well as those operating with logistics, consulting companies, and financial institutes, and manage ment from the Great Stone Park and various free economic zones. Representatives of Belarusian and Swiss business communi ties also took part in the business matchmaking event.

uring the recent meeting in Minsk with a delegation of more than twenty heads of French companies, the French Ambassador to Belarus, Didier Canesse, underlined that favourable conditions have been created in Belarus for the development of the IT sphere, which is of special interest for French partners. He notes that five or six French companies are already successfully functioning in Belarus and this year has seen their number increase. Moreover, Mr. Canesse notes major prospects for BelarusianFrench collaboration in the sphere of water purification and waste processing. French firms occupy leading positions in these spheres. Automobile building and inter national transportation, distribution of industrial materials and packaging, industrial co-operation, services involving industrial enterprises, crediting and financial servicing also hold interest for the French delegation. The French delegation met representatives of the World Bank, and leaders in the distribution of passenger cars in Belarus. They also chatted with heads of leading companies of our two states working on the Belarusian market in the area of international consulting, high technologies, industrial cooperation and banking. The delegation also made time to tour BelAZ quarry machinery enterprise and negotiated with the plant’s leadership.

By Olga Korneeva

By Oleg Bogomazov

Alisa gungor

he Belarusian-Swiss Business Council session has been discuss ing prospects for increasing exports of goods and services from Belarus to Switzerland. Also on the agenda were preferential terms being offered at our free economic zones and at the Great Stone Industrial Park, as well as issues relating to innovation and in vestment activities, logistics and cus toms regulation of Belarusian-Swiss projects, and financial and banking instruments to promote business. Taking part in the meeting were about forty representatives of large Belarusian and Swiss companies

`` Robots making themselves

Many countries have plans to manufacture robots but China remains the leader in robotics production, with Reuters reporting that the latest factory will see machines working alongside people to create more robots

new.abb.com

panorama

he new plant will be built by Swiss ABB Company which produces not only electrical equipment but industrial robots. The facility will be located not far from the company’s robotics campus in Shanghai, China being the second most important market for the ABB after the USA. The plant will be equipped with special software enabling industrial robots to work alongside people; YuMi robots — one of which conducted a human symphony orchestra in 2017 — will be used to assemble small details. Robots are being produced for use in China and for export to Asian sta tes. According to ABB data, in 2017, one in three robots worldwide was located in China: 138,000 in all. De mand is connected with the rising cost of the labour force, and many companies endeavouring to automate production processes. Increasingly often, robots are per forming human tasks. In May 2018, Starshіp Technologіes Company be gan using robotic couriers in the Cali fornian city of Mountain View. Mean while, in June, San Francisco’s Café X began using robots to make coffee. By Ivan Kuparvas

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Omar Hassan Ahmad al-Bashir:

‘Liaising with Belarus we can achieve so much’

Minsk officially visited by President of Sudan

This visit is a logical continuation of developing bilateral relations between our country and the Eastern African state, following on from the President of Belarus’ first official visit to Sudan 18 months ago. “At that time, we managed to reach a range of agreements that will undoubtedly raise us to a very high level of collaboration. At least, we’ll be able to create the foundation for our relation ship in fulfilling these agreements,” noted Alexander Lukashenko welcoming his African colleagues to the Palace of Inde pendence. “We’re ready to implement all agreements, as quickly as Sudan desires.” The President of Sudan confirmed the efficiency of our joint work, as con ducted 18 months ago in Khartoum, and friendly relations between Sudan and Belarus. He said that our countries have much in common, with political, economic and military-technical collab oration developing. “A real result of your visit to Sudan is our decision to open an embassy in Belarus,” said Omar Hassan Ahmad al-Bashir. “Together with Be larus, we’ll be able to achieve so much, including issues relating to peace.” “With the aim of improving mutual trade, we’ve agreed that Belarusian com panies will be extracting gold on your ter ritory. You’re very rich in this metal and I’m grateful to you for your decision to give us the second gold deposit,” he said.

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Another major achievement of re cent negotiations between our two presi dents has been an agreement to establish assembly facilities and a full-cycle agri cultural complex in Sudan. “Very soon, we’ll open a machine building centre in Sudan, assembling tractors, automobiles and construction machinery. We’ll also establish dairy farms and covered green houses, to grow vegetables and sprouts,” the President of Belarus underlined. He added, “We’re ready to train your spe cialists to work with the equipment we’ll be producing in Sudan. We’ll train your citizens at local centres.” The President of Belarus also ex pressed readiness for collaboration in the humanitarian sphere: education, sci ence and sport. “Mr. President, you’ve adopted a fateful decision for BelarusianSudanese interaction, abolishing tax on machinery imported for the joint venture in Khartoum,” asserted Mr. Lukashenko. “This will enhance competitiveness and we’ll be able to trade not only in Sudan but, as we’ve just agreed, across all Africa.” The Belarusian leader thanked Omar al-Bashar for his personal sup port of joint initiatives and projects, say ing, “We’re ready for open dialogue and discussion of acute issues of collabora tion in the interest of our states.” After the meeting in an extended for mat, ministries and departments signed

a range of inter-governmental agree ments in the sphere of law and taxes, while companies signed co-operative agreements. The heads of state signed a joint statement assessing collaboration between our two nations, and expressed mutual respect and support while con firming the importance of developing trade-economic relations, as well as in teraction in industry and agriculture. The President of Belarus assessed the results of the talks as fruitful, com menting, “Co-operation between our countries is developing. Over the past 18 months, we’ve seen significant pro gress.” Speaking after the signing cer emony of joint documents, he noted, “Sudan remains our important and re liable partner in Africa. We have won derful political relations and welcome the opening of the Sudanese Embassy to Belarus.” He mentioned his desire to open a similar mission in Sudan. Trade-economic relations were to the fore, as Mr. Lukashenko stressed, saying, “I’m pleased with how bilateral agree ments are being fulfilled. Both Belarusian and Sudanese departments are making efforts to implement the outlined steps. We’re trying to reach more modern and multi-faceted economic relations rather than merely exchanging goods.” With this aim, Belarus is launching a project-based approach regarding ex

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BELTA

Alexander Lukashenko and Omar Hassan Ahmad al-Bashir

ports to Sudan. “In particular, we’re pro moting our services, technologies and equipment as part of various projects,” explained the President. “For example, we’re establishing a machine building enterprise and a dairy farm, as well as growing vegetables and sprouts under cover, using Belarusian technologies. There’s also a promising project to ex plore and extract gold. We view this ap proach as mutually beneficial. It’s a winwin situation for both partners.” The Belarusian leader notes that both states are located at a geographical crossroads within their important re gions. Belarus unites Europe and Asia, while being a member of the Eurasian Economic Union. Meanwhile, Sudan is a bridge between the Arab civilisa tion and Africa, a gateway to the Afri can continent. “We have much to offer this region,” asserted Mr. Lukashenko. “Therefore, we should continue work ing together, creating joint produce for promotion across Africa and Eurasia.” He emphasised that export of high-tech

goods to Sudan is to the fore, with fur ther creation of joint assembly produc tion facilities. “Expansion and diversification of Belarusian exports should not only meet our interests but should facilitate the economic development of Sudan, meeting the needs of industrialisation, the development of agriculture, and training of local, highly-qualified staff,” he explained. “As far as I understand, there are no obstacles. Over the first nine months of 2018, exports of Bela rusian goods to Sudan almost doubled compared to the same period of 2017.” The President of Belarus stressed that it’s necessary to continue work ing on Belarusian-Sudanese collabora tion, primarily in the trade-economic sphere, to achieve a higher level. “I’ve agreed upon this with my colleague, Omar al-Bashar. We’ve also agreed on co-operation with South Sudan, and I’ve suggested that our three states could es tablish interaction: Sudan, South Sudan and Belarus.”

The major task, now, is to bring signed documents to life in time for the next visit of the President of Belarus to Khartoum. A machine building centre should be established in Sudan, as well as an agricultural complex, greenhouses using Belarusian technologies, and joint gold extraction. The President of Sudan confirmed that our two countries’ leaders have co inciding views across many economic and political issues. “All the agreements signed today, and previously, have cre ated fertile soil for the development of our bilateral economic relations,” he said. “In Sudan, we’ll be monitoring the implementation of these agree ments, as they should bring major im petus to further collaboration. It’s the beginning of strategic relations for Su dan and Belarus.” Mr. al-Bashar added that all documents signed in Minsk will be implemented by the time Alex ander Lukashenko makes his next visit to Sudan. By Olga Medvedeva

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Union reposes on equality of conditions St. Petersburg hosts Supreme Eurasian Economic Council session, featuring the President of Belarus

ccording to the Belarusian Head of State, the Eurasian Economic Union has the chance to unite, closing ranks and driving forward co-operative development. “Let’s do this. Everything depends on us, sitting at this table. Belarus is ready for this,” asserted the President. Among the positive achievements, Alexander Lukashenko noted the Treaty on the EAEU Customs Code coming into force and providing Moldova with observer status. EAEU member states have also signed a temporary agreement for the creation of a free trade zone with Iran and an agreement on trade-economic co-operation with China. The President of Belarus added that important issues remain unsolved, with Mr. Lukashenko particularly accentuating each of them and presenting the position of the Belarusian side on their settlement. “I have to say it, but I am not going to complain. I’m going to speak about the unfulfilled agreements. Our union (luckily I was one the founders) relies on a certain freedom of movement of workforce, capitals, services, goods. And the main thing is that we’ve agreed to provide equal conditions for all economic operators and our people when we created a common economy. A Union is impossible without such equal conditions,” noted the Belarusian leader.

Excluding protectionism The President stated that when presiding in the EAEU bodies in early 2018, Russia continued to remove barriers,

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exemptions and restrictions on the way to create the common EAEU market. “This is one of the most topical issues for our Union, and it was outlined by the Belarusian side several years ago. However, the progress in the resolution of this issue is too slow. Moreover, old barriers are often replaced by new ones,” accentuated the Head of State. Alexander Lukashenko believes that this situation is inadmissible as it violates the existing agreements. “As practice showed it’s important not only to eliminate barriers but also to create conditions to prevent their re-emergence. In this context, I suggest authorising our Eurasian Economic Commission to make decisions in case any EAEU member state re-extends the existing exemptions,” he said. According the Belarusian side, this will help prevent protectionism which has a strong negative impact on integration processes without affecting national interests. “All people partaking in this meeting criticised global protectionism and even called it economic wars. Why do we create it here then?” asked the President. “It’s also essential to toughen the responsibility of our executives for making decisions in contradiction with the principles envisaged in our EAEU Treaty.”

Shaping common markets Belarus is in favour of comprehensive and unconditional observation of EAEU norms and obligations by all member states, with Alexander Lukashenko reminding that it has been agreed to create a common market for gas, oil and oil products by 2025.

P “We should accomplish these goals on schedule and ensure that the Union provides a stable and fair fuel and raw materials policy,” asserted the Head of State. “Suppliers and consumers’ interests regarding energy resources are equal under allied relations. The Eurasian Economic Union is an integral system and we’ve adopted this concept.” The President of Belarus has expressed solidarity with Russia in the need to develop new forms of interaction, including for nuclear and renewable energy. However, he noted that a lack of agreement on principles for creating a common oil and gas market will hamper the EAEU’s efficient development. The resolution of this key issue will make it possible for member states to develop co-operation in other fields.

Digitising economy

“The digital agenda has been in the spotlight in Belarus for a long time. Judging by our experience, I should say that it’s now popular to speak about digital transformations and IT development. This is a very important industry and it helps reduce prime costs. It accounts for 20-25 percent, with the remainder — 70-75 percent — belonging to traditional economic spheres, but we shouldn’t forget about it,” added the Head of State.

Expanding space services The agenda of the current EAEU summit also included discussion of co-operation in space exploration and geoinformation services, using state-owned satellite equipment for remote sensing of Earth. “Implementation of this initiative will bring strong impetus to our innovative and industrial collaboration, including the onward effect on adjacent industries,” the President is convinced. Speaking about prospects for further EAEU development, Mr. Lukashenko remarked that the Eurasian integration project should embrace new co-operative avenues. “It’s especially important to see tangible results in the year in which we’ll mark the fifth anniversary of our Eurasian Economic Union. There should be no doubt that the EAEU is an efficient joint project aimed at raising the level of economic well-being of all member states,” resumed the Belarusian leader. Based on BELTA materials

BELTA

This topic was discussed in detail at the meeting between the heads of state in a narrow format. The countries have ambitious goals to promote the use of modern technologies and models of production. “Our concerted efforts to integrate the potential of our states through digital solutions will impact on the efficiency of integration as a whole and the future of our Union,” noted Mr. Lukashenko. “Belarus is ready to take an active part in implementing projects and initiatives concerning the digital agenda of the EAEU.” Primarily, this pertains to digital trade and co-operation, electronic logistics, formation of digital transport corridors, and development of precise technologies in agriculture and industry.

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At the session in St. Petersburg

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initiative aimed at development

This autumn has been very special for China, in so many regards. Five years ago, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced key historical initiatives to revive the Silk Road, under modern conditions, first in Kazakhstan and then in Indonesia. At that time, it seemed a wonderful idea, but many doubted the practical implementation of such a huge, transnational project, uniting continents. However, time has

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proven that the idea is more than a pipedream. At present, all proposals suggested by the Chinese President have been realised, as reported at the 5th Media Co-operation Forum on Belt and Road, organised by The People’s Daily (Rénmín Rìbào) newspaper, together with the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the Government of Hainan Province.

The event was hosted by the capital of the annual Boao Forum for Asia on the eastern coast of Hainan Island, gathering over 250 representatives from ninety countries and international organisations, as well as 205 media representatives, including those from Belarus. The gathering allowed discussion of interaction between the media while encouraging the sharing of opinions on the global project. How did

B the initiative of the Heavenly Empire become a global trend?

‘Paper’ project Over recent decades, some countries have suggested their own concepts for restoring the Silk Road. Back in 1996, the Japanese Government proposed the ‘Silk Road Diplomacy’ while, in 1999, the US Congress adopted ‘The Silk Road Strategy Act’ which envisaged strengthening US assistance to countries in Central Asia and the Caucasus, aiming to reduce the influence of Russia in the region. In autumn 2011, the USA renewed its ‘New Silk Road’ initiative, aiming to improve the economic position of Afghanistan by redeploying Central Asian energy sources to the south. A free trade zone was planned, alongside transport routes and gas pipelines from north to south, integrating the economies of Central and South Asian countries (including Pakistan and India). However, the idea failed to be realised. Several similar initiatives were voiced by South Korea between 2009 and 2013, aiming to lay transport routes for raw materials, particularly in Central Asia, and to strengthen the presence of Korean business in the region. Later, Japan, India, Australia and the USA spoke of creating a joint ‘alternative’ Silk Road: an ‘AsianAfrican Growth Corridor’. The principal difference would be its orientation towards co-operation with the private sector, to facilitate investment into developing markets. None of these initiatives was of universal character, nor had a comprehensive approach, b eing restricted by the fact that one or more of the countries involved aimed to profit from their own access to cheap resources from developing states.

Five areas The Chinese initiative was initially based on other principles. In 2013,

the President of China suggested five key areas across which joint projects could be realised as part of the Belt and Road initiative. Primarily, he wished to strengthen political consultations between states. Xi Jinping proposed a regular exchange of opinions on strategy and tactics of economic development. Being guided by the principle of achieving unity of opinion via consul tation, while respecting differences, he suggested programmes to develop regional collaboration and to inspire regional economic integration — from a political and legal standpoint. The Chinese President expressed China’s readiness to support a single transport system, improving transboundary infrastructure to create a network uniting Eastern, Western and Southern Asia. This would create

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competitiveness for each regional economy. Another weighty argument is the strengthening of interstate relations, building on the mutual friendship of nations. In order to achieve success, public support is needed to activate friendly contacts and reinforce mutual understanding. Regional interaction would thereby gain a solid social base. These were the principal approaches of the Chinese leadership during the creation of the Belt and Road initiative. “Everything is happening openly and transparently,” asserts Wang Yi, the Chinese Foreign Minister. “There’s no dominating power; only equal participation of all countries. There’s no shady business; only openness and transparency. There’s no ‘winner takes all’ mentality; only the aspiration towards mutual benefit.”

“The Belt and Road initiative suggested by China provides an important platform to promote international co-operation and suggestions” favourable conditions for economic de velopment and movement of citizens between regions, as well as strengthening trade ties. More than three billion people reside within the Silk Road economic zone: a huge market with enormous potential for trade-investment cooperation. It’s rational to seek ways to simplify conditions for trade and investment, removing obstacles to trade and reducing unnecessary expenditure, to enhance the speed and quality of economic operations. Logically, it’s been suggested that more payments be made in national currencies, to save unnecessary ‘loss’ incurred through currency exchange. This would strengthen countries’ financial systems, while reducing financial risk and enhancing international

To embody global projects at t he Nat iona l D e velopment and Reform Commission, a management secretariat has been set up alongside the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Moreover, a Joint Investment Foundation, headed by the Chinese Government, is operating. Over the past five years, China has signed 103 documents on co-operation, with eighty-eight countries and international organisations. The aggregated trade turnover of China with countries within the Belt and Road initiative exceeded $5 trillion in that period (while aggregated volume of Chinese investments into those countries has exceeded $70 billion). China has launched seventy-five zones of t r a d e - e c on om i c co-operation within page

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the countries of the initiative, prov iding 200,000 new jobs. A new model of collaboration is underway to develop a global economy and regional inte gration. “The Belt and Road initiative suggested by China provides an im portant platform to promote inter national co-operation and suggestions,” comments the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, stressing that this strategy has enabled the launch of new infrastructural projects, attracting investments into developing countries and reducing unemployment. “The construction of the Belt and Road is mutually beneficial and profitable for all sides.”

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Without barriers The Chinese Belt and Road initiative is aimed at overall development, and is shifting to a new level of realisation, underlines the Editor-in-Chief of The People’s Daily newspaper, Li Baoshan. Speaking at the Media Co-ope ration Forum on Belt and Road, he stated, “Humanity faces serious challenges and efficient answers will only be found through joint effort. We believe that the Belt and Road initiative could be a model for settling various modern problems, facilitating the maintenance of peace and expanding global co-operation.” He emphasises that developing countries’ interests are being taken into account, rather than only those of global leading economies.” Speaking about China’s foreign polic y, Mr. Baoshan underlines that the PRC has made a significant contribution to maintaining stability in the region and worldwide. “China isn’t building barriers or obstacles for other countries and is against the application of force, welcoming interaction across all spheres. It’s important to note that the Belt and Road initiative is being implemented in line with existing international rules. Over time, we’ll see the necessity

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of improving our international legal system but it should be natural evolution, occurring objectively and transparently.” Welcoming participants of the forum, Mr. Baoshan asserted that, annually, the event has grown, finding support among many states. “Our forum is a solid platform for media dialogue. The People’s Daily wishes to encourage international exchange and collaboration and we’ll be trying to keep pace with new trends in the spheres of media and information technologies. Innovations will be a focus of our international meetings.” A member of the Political Bu reau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, Huang Kunming, noted during the meeting with participants of the Media Co-operation Forum that the Belt and Road initiative is being actively implemented. He hopes that the media of interested countries and regions will strengthen interaction and help spread information about the initiative. Foreign representatives expressed their readiness to reinforce

media collaboration, helping facilitate the global project. Belarus in an important partner for China in the construction of the Belt and Road, as has been un derlined many times by Chinese President Xi Jinping. “Our countries need to make even greater efforts to reinforce trade-investment relations,” Mr. Jinping has noted. In fact, next year’s Media Co-operation Forum on Belt and Road is being hosted by Belarus, at the Great Stone ChineseBelarusian Industrial Park. Regarding media interaction, there has been fruitful co-operation between The People’s Daily newspaper and ‘Zviazda’ newspaper, as stipulated by a corresponding memorandum signed by the editorial offices. We’re implementing a joint project online: ‘News from China’, on the ‘Zviazda’ website, as well as on the pages of those editions, aiming to represent a wide palette of life from Belarus and China. Remarkably, The People’s Daily museum even has a display dedicated to our joint project. By Nikolay Litvinov

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e chat with the Direc tor and Edit or-inChief of Zviazda Publish ing House, Pavel Sukhorukov, about how the inter national project is being implemented, as well as his trip to the Chinese Prov ince of Hainan, and participation in the 5th Media Co-operation Forum on Belt and Road. Mr. Sukhorukov, where can we read articles prepared by our two states’ journalists, as part of the ‘ZviazdaPeople’s Daily’ joint project? You can read online. Our web site has a section entitled ‘News from China’ (http://zviazda.by/be/vestkiz‑kitaya‑0.) while Belarusian news is available on the Chinese newspaper’s Russian-language website: Rénmín Rìbào online. In preparing such mate rials, we try to show how people live in Belarus and China today.

What are your impressions from your recent trip? All positive. It’s very pleasant to have been twice asked to take part in such a major forum. As we understand, the Belt and Road is an integration and multi-profile project… Yes. We’re taking part alongside oth er countries, covering not just econom ic, social and humanitarian aspects, but media issues. Our global aim is to re store trade routes, as existed centuries ago. The project covers many states; not only those once officially situated along the Silk Road. It encompasses the Afri can states, even. China is also develop ing the Maritime Silk Road. We’re observing a worldwide format of integration, led by China. Most inte gration structures experience crisis at some time or other. Think of the EU, which is shaking because of the UK’s Brexit, and the USA leaving the Kyoto Protocol. The latter is an international agreement adopted by the United Na tions Framework Convention on Cli

mate Change (1992), signed in Japanese Kyoto in December 1997. It obliges de veloped countries, and those with tran sitory economies, to reduce or stabilise greenhouse gas emissions. Meanwhile, we all remember how the USA an nounced its withdrawal from the Paris Agreement of July 1st, 2017. China has seized the initiative. This huge country is becoming a centre of integration processes, active ly developing them. Moreover, almost all developed countries are taking part (to some degree) in international en deavours. As a state, China is tolerant and philosophical, offering friendship to everyone and opportunities to take part in this project. It isn’t rejecting anyone who wishes to join this pro cess. My Deputy Nikolay Litvinov’s ana lytical report [see Initiative Aimed at Development on page 8] shows truly impressive figures. Nikolay was also a member of our delegation, tak ing part in the forum. It’s evident that, since the project launched, participat

During the plenary session of the forum

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B ing countries’ trade turnover has sig nificantly increased with China. We’re seeing major economic effects for all those taking part? Undoubtedly. China is injecting colossal resources into all these events. We’re also taking part. My respected predecessor at Zviazda Publishing House — and now Information Minister of Belarus, Alexander Karlyukevich — signed an agreement on co-operation with The People’s Daily — China’s lead ing newspaper — several years ago. The ‘News from Belarus’ project is available online, via the Russian-language version of The People’s Daily. That’s right, with ‘Zviazda’ journal ists preparing some news content, in addition to interesting author materi als. The information is available via the online version of The People’s Daily newspaper. Meanwhile, our ‘Zviazda’ website offers news from China, pre pared by Chinese journalists. So, readers worldwide have access to the electronic version of The People’s Daily, learning about events in Belarus, while those reading our resource can see the latest Chinese news. Yes; it’s a very precious collabora tion. Probably, other Belarusian media will also be developing… China has chosen The People’s Daily newspaper as the major media outlet to liaise within the Belt and Road ini tiative. Other Belarusian media are also moving in this direction, such as Bela rus Segodnya Publishing House and the Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BelTA). It’s actually the second time I’ve taken part in the largest international media forum. Last year, the host location was Dunhuang, where the famous ‘old’ Silk Road began. Dunhuang is an oasis and an urban district in the Jiuquan prefec ture-level city of the Chinese Province of Gansu. It served in ancient times as a gateway to China on the Great Silk Road. This year, we were welcomed to the city of Boao on Hainan Island, with the event bringing together representa tives of ninety countries.

Which issues did you discuss at the Media Co-operation Forum this year? We exchanged opinions on the technologies of media development, focusing on electronic technolo gies. We chatted about innovative ap proaches in media development, with reporters raising other important is sues, such as how to counteract fake news, and terrorist threats (which are promoted via the media). There were rather interesting reports. In particu lar, the Russians mentioned how new technologies and promotion of infor mation products are influencing our lives. Representatives of the Chinese media shared their experience, includ ing from The People’s Daily newspaper, and there were reporters from the UK and the USA.

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Our people say that true friends are united by a joint road, even where the path is hard… Did you manage to examine China from inside? Only a very small part of it, as the country is huge and unusual. They or ganised interesting excursions for us, showing us infrastructure rapidly de veloping in China, especially on Hain an Island. This province in the south of China is home to the country’s largest resort and medical centre. Its latest de velopment is a colossal medical cluster, covering over 50sq.km. The chain of medical institutions is interconnected, utilising traditional Chinese medicine. Infrastructure on Hainan is growing at an incredible pace, offering treatment to Chinese citizens and foreign patients. They’re also seeking foreign investors, not

The atmosphere was almost brotherly. For me, as a citizen of Belarus and the head of a famous organisation, I appreciated that atmosphere What can you say about the atmosphere of the forum? A huge business centre, which annu ally hosts the Asian Forum (something like the World Economic Forum in Swiss Davos) was chosen as the venue. The atmosphere was almost brotherly. For me, as a citizen of Belarus and the head of a famous organisation, I appre ciated that atmosphere. Despite disa greements between countries, there’s mutual understating at such meetings. The world community faces challenges as never before but we need to unite ef forts to settle our problems, for the ben efit of the global community. Representatives of the Ukrainian and Russian media were present at the event but didn’t bring their inter-state problems to our discussions. Often, in the modern world, such internation al venues are used to promote narrow national interests but it wasn’t so at the media event in Boao.

just for their medical cluster but for an airport and a railway station. We visited a range of facilities being well constructed. There’s confidence that everything will be fulfilled on time, without delay. Are medical centres already operating? We attended one and met a young Russian-speaking woman among the fitness instructors. Of course, it’s a good idea, to make Russian-speaking patients feel comfortable while receiv ing treatment. Were you offered a procedure? We were, but we had a very inten sive programme. Is infrastructure in Dunhuang developing at the same pace? Yes, very quickly. It’s the centre of the famous Chinese Gobi Desert, which has around 3,000 Buddhist caves, reg istered on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list. The Chinese are creating a tourist page

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prised: our joint project has a dis play there. We spent three days in Bei jing, where I saw the exhibition stand. We failed to visit other places, where we might have seen traces of Belarusians, including at our em bassy. Meanwhile, in the Chinese capital, we had a very inter esting meeting with the Chinese Infor mation Minister at the National People’s Congress. We dis cussed the impor tant issue of consolida tion. Moreover, we had a Stand dedicated to joint project of ‘Zviazda’ and meeting at the editorial of The People’s Daily newspapers fice of The People’s Daily, featuring all participants cluster there, with an of the media forum. page How large is the staff of China’s airport, hotels and major newspaper? business centres, built as a small town. Apparently, there are 1,500 em They’re gradually conquering the ployees, including 500 journalists. The desert, bringing soil, so they can plant newspaper is a multi-profile holding, palm trees and breathe new life into the occupying around thirty storeys but, land. Just imagine a lake or an oasis in primarily, studios are located there. the centre of the desert. We were shown Chinese understand that fewer peo this last year. It’s truly impressive! ple are buying paper newspapers, so Mr. Sukhorukov, is it prestigious they’re expanding TV content and or for you to be part of the Belt and Road ganising various talk shows. project? It’s an absolute honour for Zviazda The paper version of the edition is Publishing House and for myself. All almost the same as it was previously: a entrants of the forum agreed that the printed body of the Central Commit project initiated by China is one of the tee of the Communist Party of China, most promising integration endeavours with a classical layout, similar to the So worldwide. Everything is transparent viet party newspaper ‘Pravda’ (Truth). and participation is voluntary. Psycho There are photos in various sizes but logically, this is important. You certainly the first page remains as it ever was, in do feel yourself to be part of something classical style. significant. Zviazda Publishing House is How do Chinese media representaa real part of this but you feel it most tives feel about us promoting their conacutely while in China. tent? Did you see anything Belarusian in I know that they’re interested in China? projects which promote China around Yes. In the museum of The People’s the world, to raise awareness and posi Daily newspaper, I was pleasantly sur tive public opinion far beyond China’s

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borders. This is a long-term investment, and I‘m convinced it’s a good idea. The more friends a country has, the great er its prospects. Any steps facilitating the promo tion of Chinese projects are precious to them. However, the Chinese are wise people, being followers of ethi cal rules, and they never make explicit statements. Each guest is a prospective partner, to be treated kindly. I watched how the Director Gener al of ‘Rossiyskaya Gazeta’ newspaper, Pavel Negoitsa, chatted with colleagues from The People’s Daily. His ties are long-standing and very friendly. He was among the first to speak at the fo rum, as Russia is viewed as a very im portant co-operative partner for the Chinese. It was subtle, but I noticed some small things. However, I want to repeat that our Chinese colleagues treat everyone well. I felt this in my of ficial and personal capacity. You’ve been telling us about the friendly atmosphere at the media forum. What about Beijing? Was it filled with smog? Yes. You can’t see the top of sky scrapers and people wear masks. Be larusian Minsk is a paradise in this re spect. I think our Chinese friends will understand me, as they also speak and write much about problems in Beijing, while taking measures. However, the climate in Hainan is a true paradise, at plus 30 degrees, with blue skies and palm trees. The island is close to Viet nam. They still work hard, of course. During the night, I saw workers bring ing palm trees from the breeding nurs ery in special containers. What about friendliness and hospitality on the streets? Did you see people smiling? The Chinese are a hospitable nation and we were warmly welcomed. We were all smiling during meetings and sometimes bowing. How many days did you spend there? Just five days and each was very in tensive. One day was dedicated to trav

B elling from Hainan Island to Beijing: a flight of 4-5 hours. Did you manage to walk around Boao? We enjoyed going to the city at night, taking a taxi to the sea. It was warm and we even swam in the evening, surpris ing the Chinese, because it wasn’t their season to do so, and there could be big waves. However, it was very exotic for us! Locals had a benevolent attitude to wards our night swimming. Which souvenirs have you brought home? In Beijing, I visited the silk street, where there are lots of Chinese goods: clothes, electronic devices and souve nirs. There I have bought some small items. It’s hard to know where to look first. There are quite a few who speak Russian there. I enjoyed haggling, which is a way of life for Chinese sellers. They announce an inflated price but then gradually re duce it, like a game. It’s interesting for a journalist to visit that street. China gives the impression of a rich country, with children playing, practicing gym nastics or dancing. People are smiling and friendly. I understand that there’s no need to confuse tourism with emi

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Church complex in Boao

gration. Undoubtedly, there are prob lems there, as all people have. However, the Chinese are able to settle them, set ting goals and gradually achieving their dreams. There’s a very sedate atmosphere and people talk calmly. It’s said that if you find China beneficial for you then it’s

also beneficial for China. No one press es an invitation on anyone and there aren’t any open charity activities. On the one hand, there’s openness but, on the other, people are modest and quiet. We can certainly learn something. Interviewed by Ivan and Valentina Zhdanovich

‘Live’ logotype of the Boao Forum for Asia

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Secret

of Great Stone Head of Great Stone Chinese-Belarusian Industrial Park Administration, Alexander Yaroshenko, tells us how the national economy and Belarusian life will be transformed after the Park’s launch

he Great Stone is coming to be known a s ‘t h e c a p i t a l ’s satellite’, thanks lar gely to the roads which will connect Minsk with this major economic centr e. I drove over to see for myself if the Park’s ambitions are becoming a reality. Within 35 minutes, I’d arrived, seeing constr uction in full swing, in lightweight concrete, surrounded by foreign flags. A large electronic board hangs from the main

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administration building, housing residents’ offices and the ‘one station’, which issues information on global

weather and tracks flights schedules f rom M i n s k Nat i on a l A i r p or t , situated nearby. Looking at the board, you can’t help but imagine the world’s investment flows. In fact, these services are placed together only temporarily, as the Press Secretary of the Park’s Administration, Olga Rudaya, explains as she takes me on a tour. The business centre built by the China Merchants Corporation is nearby, with a huge clock on the roof, set to show Beijing time, five hours ahead. A monumental exhibition complex is located close to the business centre — the largest in

P Belarus. Next year, several exhibitions are planned but the first exhibits are already on display: fire-fighting robots, super capacitors, and LED products. There are customs warehouses (cons tantly being approached by trucks) and impressive buildings housing foreign residents. Afterwards, we head to Alexander Yaroshenko’s office.

Almost communism Mr. Yaroshenko, I remember, as a child, in the 1990s, asking adults about Communism and my mother explaining, “Communism is when everyone has everything, and money is no longer needed.” It sounded like heaven, I thought then. Probably, if at that young age, I’d have seen your Industrial Park, I would have decided that ‘communism construction’ looked like this. Do you agree? Comparison with heaven is rather pleasing. When I presented the project at the Shanghai exhibition in November, and said that we’d created a tax-free heaven for investors, Chinese translators were confused. They did not know how to translate the meaning of this sentence. It was funny… The President of Belarus was first to speak, stressing that the Great Stone Park offers unprecedented conditions. For the entire duration of the Park’s ‘life’ (until 2062, or half a century if we calculate from the date of Presidential Decree No. 1 entering into force on June 12th, 2012), we’re relieving residents of taxes on land and property, with legislation to be kept unchanged, as enshrined in the regulations. Conditions for investors can only improve! Also, for the first ten years, our residents are exempt from income tax. Tax is collected at a 50 percent reduction and, importantly, from the moment income is received (rather than invoiced). There are many preferences, including visafree stay in Belarus for up to 180 days, exemption from customs duties on raw materials and equipment imported

for the Park, and reduced income tax of 9 percent (rather than our usual 13 percent). This also provides the opportunity to buy land in private ownership — another confirmation of our paradise! You’ve repeatedly reported to the media on Chinese borrowing experience. Do tell us more… This unique project covers land of about a third of that of all Minsk, so we turned to Chinese experience of similar projects. Over the past forty years (since China began its policy of greater economic openness), the PRC has achieved fantastic results, thanks to its special zones. Among them is the Chinese-Singapore Suzhou Industrial Park, created in 1998. Meanwhile, in Shenzhen, there is the famous SheKou Park, which has driven development across South China. Even the Chinese have been impress ed by the scop e of our prospects concerning our Great

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Stone Park, which Xi Jinping has called ‘a pearl of the economic Silk Road’. It’s the largest point on the economic belt of the Silk Road, and the largest Chinese project. We’ve followed the management mod el of two legal organisations, who se interests do not overlap. The Administration of the Park which I head deals with administrative issues: we conclude contracts with investors on the status of each resident, giving them preferential policies and so on. Meanwhile, a closed joint stock company oversees the Park’s deve lop ment, uniting such major state corporations as SINOMACH and China Merchants Group. 68 percent of authorised capital is owned by our Chinese partners and Belarusians keep 31 percent. The company controls the commercial development of the territor y : its arrangement and page infrastructure, while

Alexander Yaroshenko

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keeping an eye on en v ir o n m e nt a l s a f e t y. Inv e s t or s s h ou l d fe e l s afe an d comfortable. When we presented our Park at the Luxembourg Forum in Germany — d e m ons t r at i ng it s t e c h n i c a l characteristics and the system of Inter net capabilities (10GB per second) — German businessmen were very sur prised. They said that even they lack such facilities! We do, thanks to our optic fibre network. Meanwhile, our intergovernmental governance structure, which is develo ping a strategy for the development of the project, is dealing with global issues and supervising us. We know about the Great Wall of China. China is now building a Great Stone in Belarus. Who owns the ‘name’ of our Park? Let’s take our map and look at the area where we’re now situated. You may be surprised, but there are fifteen villages, and one is called Veliky Kamen (Great Stone). So, our international project has a native Belarusian name! Discussing it with the Chinese, we offered them Blue Mountains, Zagorie, and Red Meadow but they chose Great Stone, which chimed with their own outlook. It’s now a patented name for our Park.

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Belarus’ biggest exhibition complex

Great entry

Spacious interior of exhibition complex

First exhibits on show — firefighting robots and supercondensers

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Who can become a resident of the Industrial Park? Any legal entity. You just need to register at the Great Stone, becoming a resident of Belarus. The procedure is simple and can be quickly realised i n ou r ‘one - stop - shop’ re g i me, created for maximum convenience. You write your application, provide the constituent documents, pay a symbolic fee of around $10 and then wait to receive tax registration, which we set up. If necessary, we invite representatives of B elarusian ministries and departments to look at the application but everything is done

Alexander Yaroshenko: ‘Prospects for construction better seen from above’

on the spot, so there’s no need to go somewhere else. The procedure takes a couple of hours. On one occasion, it took just eight minutes to register a resident: German Dieffenbacher, which is working jointly with partners from China, Belarus and Russia, creating composites from new materials (not metal) for use in mechanical engineering. The project is worth 220 million Euros. Apart from formal legal nuances, in order to become a resident, you need to present an investment project that focuses on high-tech innovation, such as СT technologies, electronics, new materials, pharmaceuticals, or engineering. Belarus views itself as part of a machine-building cluster, so engineering is welcome. It’s the basis of our economy, alongside E‑commerce. Also desirable are businesses processing and storing large amounts of information, or conducting research and development. The investment entrance ticket is $500,000. If a resident declares a project for the long term, then investments should be at least $5 million. Small and medium-sized business projects need to forecast investments of at least $500,000.

How many residents can join the Great Stone Park? It’s hardly possible to guess but there are thirty-nine now and we’ll soon have forty-one. By 2020, we hope to have a hundred enterprises, housed over an area of more than eight hectares. That’s a high volume! Don’t be surprised; the figures are quite real. Two years ago, while sitting in this chair, I talked about doubling our residents. We’ve actually seen a

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fivefold increase. Figures may not grow as rapidly in the future, but we need to set ambitious goals! The volume of declared investments is at least $2 billion, while the volume of production is worth $1 billion. There will be at least 6,000 new jobs created. Given that the project will be located over 112 square kilometres (11,247 hectares), there will be enough space for everyone. Tell us more about those who have already joined the project and about our Belarusian representatives. Most residents are from China; there are twenty-two of them. There are also companies from Germany, America, Israel, Lithuania, Russia, and Austria. We position ourselves as an international platform and attract investors from all over the world. There are nine Belarusian residents and this is enough. For example, Levant Group produces equipment for air-conditioning, used at domestic and foreign nuclear power plants. Assomedica is another Belarusian project, also focused on export deliveries. It produces medical products for various purposes and plan to master production of equipment for ultrasound diagnostics. We’re waiting for a few more enterprises, making biodegradable food packaging, which we h op e w i l l f i n d custom among our page

Exhibition complex visited by many delegations

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Chinese guests get acquainted with the Great Stone Park layout

companies, such 19 major as Santa Bremor. Other

promising Belarusian projects are in the field of metal products in 3Dformat, for shipping and aerospace construction. I emphasise in every interview that we’re very, very happy to see Belarusian investors at the Great Stone Park. They’re eligible for the same preferential terms and we want to see them develop interesting projects alongside foreign companies, learning from their technological expertise, and adopting best practices, as well as gaining orders from those foreign residents. Believe me, this is how you can achieve great results, working, as they say, in the neighbourhood. For example, our American resident Rohtak — which produces laser equipment — boasts technological processes not yet mastered anywhere else. Accordingly, there are no locally qualified personnel and the founders of the project have set up a training centre (built by Belarusians). Our Belarusian labour force is benefitting, being able to train while working.

City as pure ‘emerald’ Press Secretary Olga Rudaya describes Park’s residents

In the administrative building’s hall

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Seeing the magnificent lemons growing in your office, it makes me think of how we can combine ecoawareness with major production. On the Park’s website, there are lines from a well-known children’s song: ‘We’re going to the Emerald City along a difficult path…’ Is it difficult to combine major production and environmentally friendliness? Modern production and ecology can be compatible. Our project is the first and, so far, the only one in Belarus to have received the European EMAS cer tif icate (Environment Management System Standardisation). We received it from our foreign partners; in particular, from German experts. They examined the site several times, assessing existing and possible

P so fast! We have ambitious plans. Of course, time is needed but we plan that the main milestones of development will be implemented by 2030. Residents and those involved in building the future economy of our country will live in eco-cities, so it’s good to solve problems as we go along. We foresee a population of 130,000 eventually, with a workforce of about 120,000.

All the best — to us What benefits are there for Belarus from hosting foreign companies, who are exempt from many payments? We gain access to technologies and innovations in return for preferences. I’ll try to explain. We want to inspire new industries and sub-sectors, to introduce high-tech elements into our economy. This is one of the main points that explain our goal. I have some more examples. MAZ-Weichai has already

started production of diesel units. Prior to that, our Minsk Automobile Works, despite all its recognition as a Belarusian brand, lacked a domesticallyproduced engine. We used aggregates of the Russian Federation and other corporations. Now, we’re writing new pages in the history of the Great Stone Park, building a plant to produce its own diesel unit. Meanwhile, Zoomlion Corporation is a world leader in construction equipment, making heavy-duty truck cranes, concrete mixers and other construction equipment, at Minsk Automobile Works. Another example of technological and profitable economic co-operation is the production of supercapacitors by one of our first residents — Chengdu Xinzhu Silk Road Development Corporation — making the heart of our Belkommunmash electric buses. Finally, we’ll be focusing on exports, to ensure profit. By Alisa Gungor-Krasovskaya

photo presented by the great stone chinese-belarusian industrial park

production, and conducted serious monitoring. We’ll need to be inspected annually but the Chinese take the issue of env ironment a l prote c t ion ver y seriously. They noticed that my office lacked the colour green, so they brought me lemons. You can take one as a souvenir. We’ve tried to preserve the natural landscape as much as possible, to create a ‘green atmosphere’ for our Park. In its northern and southern parts, there are republican reserves and, in the south, we have Petrovich Reservoir, where the Volma River flows. We also have plans to make a recreational area, for relaxation. It sounds very attractive! Who is allowed access? It will be an open area and I think, in 10-15 years, Minsk residents may come with their children. I may come with my grandchildren or, even, with great grandchildren. Time is flying

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A bird’s eye view of the Great Stone Park by night

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019 European Games

Encouraging tourism Minsk Guest Card for 2nd European Games — a very interesting project for tourists

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Games. It differs from others in being valid for fourteen days and including the most significant sights. You can plan your trip through Minsk and the Minsk Region, but it doesn’t include free travel on public transport. It costs about B r 3 0 ,”

agreements daily. By April 1st, the project will include more than a thousand venues countrywide. Since January, we’ve freely distributed six thousand of the cards and sold more than seven hundred. I think it’s a good result. I’m keen to see the project developed countrywide. I bought a card myself over the summer, using it to take my grandchildren to see various cities. Everything was simple and there were many places where we received a discount. Meanwhile, in Slonim, where the card isn’t yet operating, we faced a problem, as we didn’t know which museums to attend, nor what to see. We ended up walking aimlessly around the town.” At present, Mingorspravka is developing a new project for spring launch. Specialists would like to make a card for Belarusian residents, to include the major sights of Belarus, supporting domestic tourism. Svetlana Demeshko, the Deputy Head of Minsk City Executive Committee’s Main Department for Sports and Tourism, believes that the Guest Card will go from strength to strength. “Soon, we’ll be visited by many athletes, delegations and fans. Minsk is preparing for their arrival, with over seven hundred city organisations involved in tourism. We’re expecting to see tourist services generate more than $85 million next year.” minskpass.by

М Minsk often finds itself among the most attractive cities for tourism. Of course, participants and fans of the 2nd European Games, taking place next June, will have the chance to experience the beauty of our capital. To help visitors make the most of their trip, Unitary Enterprise Mingorspravka has developed a unique Guest Card of bonuses and discounts. Boris Vasiliev, the Director of UE Mingorspravka, has told that, “The Guest Card project was launched in January and includes a system of discounts and bonuses for entry to museums, zoo, hotels and other sites, designed to appeal to tourists. Some cards also allow free travel on public transport and the metro. When we launched the project, only seventyfour venues were taking part but their number is nearing two hundred and is rising daily. Russians are mostly acquiring the Guest Card but Americans, Chinese and Japanese visitors are also showing interest.” Each type of Guest Card has its own system of bonuses. For example, those keen to visit museums and the zoo will buy the card that includes those, while Belarusians tend to purchase the Economy Guest Card — which lasts 12 months. “We’ll be offering a unique branded card alongside tickets for the 2nd European

s ay s Mr. Vasiliev. He adds that the projec t is to b e expanded countrywide. “The regions and districts help us considerably and we’re now working with enterprises and organisations, signing

By Kristina Glushko

019 European Games

right to become a volunteer 75 percent of 2nd European Games staff are volunteers. The Head of the Volunteer Services Department for the 2nd European Games Directorate, Nadezhda Anisovets, announces volunteer figures at extended session of interdepartmental co-ordination council.

he multi-sport event being held in Minsk next year will bring together representa tives of fifty coun t r i e s . Fou r t h ou sand athletes will be c omp e t i ng a c ro ss fifteen sporting disciplines and there will be 18,000 accredited persons at the Games. In order to organise such a large-scale event, a huge number of people are needed and most will be volunteers. At present, permanent staff account for just 3 percent, while contractors account for 22 percent. The remaining 75 percent will comprise volunteers. “We’re involving them in organising committees,” notes Ms. Anisovets, adding that the majority of volunteers are, of course, young people. “They have time for taking part, although

some volunteers do have jobs. We also have pensioners helping out — particularly those who retired not long ago.” Over 12,000 people have applied to volunteer for the 2nd European Games (citizens of fifty-two countries, including one from Argentina). Russians account for the majority of non-Belarusians (2,725 people) fol lowe d by Uk raine (184) and Kazakhstan (91). Following registration online, each applicant has passed a personal interview and a test for knowledge of foreign languages. They’ll be undertaking several training sessions before being accredited. Ms. Anisovets notes that training is being conducted around school and university commitments, with weekends and public holidays being used, starting from next month.

The major motivation for volunteers is the chance to practice speaking a foreign language with native speakers, and acquiring experience which may prove useful for later employment,” explains Nadezhda. Those aged 14 and over are eligible, as are those with a light degree of disablement. Many volunteers have already gained experience at similar events, such as during test tournaments held in Minsk, and at the FIBA U18 European Championships. Five hundred Belarusian volunteers took part in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. Each volunteer at the 2nd European Games will receive a full set of uniform, a certificate of participation, souvenirs and a gift bag (the content remains confidential as yet). By Darya Lobazhevich

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resentation Andrey Sazonov

Meaningful image

2nd European Games mascot — Fox Lesik — presented to public

illions of people worldwide will be associating the mascot of Fox Lesik with Belarus, as the country prepares to host the 2nd European Games Like all mascots, Lesik has its own story, having been inspired by the fox in ‘The Little Prince’. When the little prince flew away, the fox stayed behind, wishing to find new friends. He was obliged to listen to everything, which made his ears grow hugely and, one day, he learned that a particular flower made dreams come true: the legend ary Belarusian paparats-kvetka (fern-flower). The fox went to Belarus to find it, taking a million steps, as proven by his fitness bracelet. An inscription on Lesik’s cap proclaims 2019 as the brightest year in his life, as well as in the sporting life of Eu

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rope. His green t-shirt stands for development and harmony while his yellow skin speaks for his cheerfulness, his blue boots represent invincibility and his red colour symbolises energy. A national contest to select the mascot for the 2nd Eu ropean Games saw around five hundred applications, with most from Minsk, although there were entries from abroad, including one from Egypt. Star Ambassadors of the 2nd European Games, UNICEF Representative in Belarus Rashed Mustafa Sarwar, and Olympic canoeing champion Alexander Bogdanovich, re cently joined representatives of foreign diplomatic missions, ministries and departments, famous athletes, representa tives of show business and partners of the Games, as well as pupils of children’s SOS villages and volunteers, in taking part in the mascot’s presentation. By Darya Lobazhevich

ontext

Unanimous decision

Budslav Festival registered on List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

man Catholic church. Even in Lithu ania and Poland, nothing comparable exists. The high and side altar are among the Historical and Cultural Treasures of Belarus, listed on the State Register as a first category mon ument, like the former Bernardine Monastery. In 1994, Budslav Roman Catho lic Church was awarded the title of ‘Minor Basilica’ (given to churches because of their age, size or histori cal importance). It may one day re ceive the title of ‘Major Basilica’, if the Pope of Rome decrees it, acknowledg ing the importance of the church. The pilgrimage festival’s inclu sion on the UNESCO List, as a global intangible cultural treasure, is the result of many years of work by the National Commission of the Re public of Belarus for UNESCO, the Culture Ministry, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus, with wide participation of local authori ties and public communities, as well as non-governmental organisations and experts. By Nina Shcherbachevich

Anatoly Kleschuk

he Budslav Festival — wellloved by many residents of our country — has received inter national recognition, being added to the List of Intangible Cul tural Heritage of Humanity. The UN ESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage adopted the deci sion unanimously at its recent 13th session, held in Mauritius. Budslav Festival brings togeth er ten thousand people of various confessions, who travel to the ma jor Catholic site in pilgrimage from across Belarus. Along the procession route, pilgrims spend nights of rest, singing songs and chatting with lo cals, before continuing in the morn ing, contemplating God. Why was Budslav chosen by pil grims? The building was originally constructed in 1633-1643, being Ro man Catholic (now, a chapel), with a new church built in 1767-1783. The more modern building still has eight original early Classicism frescoes on the walls and an early Baroque carved wooden altar remaining from the Ro

Budslav Festival. Parade.

Retiring from the game in a positive mood! Famous tennis player Max Mirnyi, whose career on the national team began in 1994, announces his retirement His career has lasted over twenty years, earning him the world number one seed in doubles and Olympic gold in mixed doubles. He also boasts ten Grand Slam doubles victories and has twice won the ATP finals, where Max debuted at 16 years old, in the Davis Cup selec tion rounds. Since then, most years, he’s made a huge contribution to the success of the national squad of Belarus. On November 29th, Max Mirnyi published an open letter announcing his retirement plans, aged 41. He has thanked his family, fans, childhood coaches and all who have supported him throughout his professional ca reer, as well as the leadership of the Belarusian Tennis Federation, the Sports and Tourism Ministry and the National Olympic Committee, for their support over his twenty-five years on court. He explains: ‘I’ve decided that 2018 will be the last season of my profes sional career. It was a very difficult de cision, as tennis has been my life since early childhood but I’m happy that I’ve managed to enjoy this game for such a long time! Looking into the future, the time has come to face new challenges. Un doubtedly, I’ll miss the game and the element of competition but, never theless, I’ll be closely following tennis and enjoying watching my favourite sport’. By Darya Lobazhevich

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cology

Giants

from Nalibokskaya Pushcha

UN Development Programme is improving conditions for European bison — the Belarusian forest symbol

It was in the Nalibokskaya Pushcha — the ancient forest in the centre of Belarus — that European bisons were first set free, twenty-five years ago. The European bison is one of the most recognisable symbols of Belarus. Back in the time of the Belarusian Renaissance, poet Mikola Gusovsky wrote ‘The Song of the Bison’. By the early 20th century, the bison had become almost extinct but saw a revival, making it again our calling card, depicted on postage stamps, sweets, billboards and souvenirs. The main children’s camp is named Zubrenok,

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while auroch Volat was the mascot of the 2014 IIHF World Championships. “The European bison is the largest terrestrial mammal in Europe and our national legacy,” notes Vasily Shakun, who heads the laboratory of the Scientific and Practical Centre for Bioresources at the National Academy of Science of Belarus. “As of early 2018, our European bison have numbered 1,824, with most living wild. Since 2005, we’ve ranked second after Poland for our number of the European bison and, since 2011, we’ve led in the number of the wild European

bison. Soon, we’ll be unrivalled in this respect. We’re only about forty-nine European bisons behind Poland, so need just one or two years to catch up.” In 1994, fifteen European bisons were brought from the Belovezhskaya Pushcha to the Nalibokskaya Pushcha within an experiment. However, after seeming to do well, something went wrong. “Around 2012–2013, problems began to appear,” explains Mr. Shakun. “Natural forage became sparse, which resulted in the European bison dividing into groups, dispersing through the reserve.”

E Over centuries of co-existence, some types of activity have become vitally important, including for wild animals. Belarusian villagers raise very few cattle, which has led to loss of pasture land, leaving the European bison without enough forage. Almost five hundred hectares are now set to be restored, with overgrown bushes being removed and waterlogged forest meadows drained. Alongside restoration of natural forage reserves, in line with the “Wetlands” project, European bisons can also be assisted by restoring the presence of other ‘ancient’ breeds, such as turs and tarpans. It is expected that in March 25 individuals of each species will be brought from Latvia, followed by more from Germany. “Tarpans and turs are a lost link, having been replaced by cows and horses, and their number falls annually,” explains Alexander Kozulin, a scientific coordinator of the “Wetlands” project. The first results of the five-year “Wetlands” project (which aims to improve the habitat conditions for t he Europ e an bis on in the Republican Naliboksky Landscape Reserve) have shown that, since early 2018, 146 hectares of meadowland have been restored, with almost five hundred hectares planned. According to Aliaksei Artsiusheuski, who heads the “Wetlands” project, forage reserves are being created in forested areas in the Nalibokskaya Pushcha, restoring the natural habitat for the European bison. In order to make the management of the restored meadows sustainable, special machinery has been acquired, such as that being used at Tyakovo farmstead. In late spring, bushes were over 2m high but those shrubs have now been cleared and the hydrological regime optimised, with an observation platforms built — especially useful in winter. Vasily Gurkov, the director of the Republican Naliboksky Landscape Reserve, explains that a network of highly-efficient forage reserves in

forestlands will help avoid conflict with local crop farming. The European bison has previously caused trouble by leaving the forests in search of food, due to the degradation of natural pasture within the Nalibokskaya Pushcha. According to Mr. Gurkov, the reserve’s tourist potential has also improved, with more Belarusian and foreign tourists arriving annually to observe the European bison in the wild. There are three feeding and observation platforms, enabling guests to observe the bison in their natural habitat all year round. Examining a self-feeding station at Tyakovo, journalists found fresh traces of a large wolf. In fact, all the ‘big five’ Belarusian animals (as registered in the Red Book) live in the Nalibokskaya

Pushcha: the European bison, bears, the lynx, the elk and great spotted eagles. This demonstrates the high environmental and tourist potential of the territory. This year, the Nalibokskaya Pushcha was visited by around a hundred foreign tourists, with most arriving for safari activities in the reserve, wishing to take photos. Recently, the Nalibokskaya Pushcha received its first Chinese visitors. The reserve can annually host 200–300 foreign tourists, as well as around 20,000 Belarusian tourists, offering the highest level of service. It’s planned to accommodate tourists at local agro-estates, with about thirty existing in neighbouring villages.

cology

The reserve is also opening a new administrative building, in Volozhin, where a visitor centre will be established. D ur ing my t r ip w it h fel low journalists, we saw a whole herd of the European bison at the feeding station near the village of Yatskovo. Three calves and six adults allowed us to take pictures from a distance; they initially turned to run but then stood in line, demonstrating themselves in all their beauty. Mr. Gurkov notes that this vividly illustrates the success of the project. Several live traps are being built, to allow scientists to take DNA samples, and generate ‘genetic passports’, so that the genetic diversity and potential of the Nalibokskaya Pushcha micropopulation of the European bison can be catalogued. Vasily Shakun, who heads the laboratory at the Scientific and Practical Centre for Bioresources at the National Academy of Science of Belarus, explains that these results will form the basis for genetic recovery of the Nalibokski micro population of the European bison. Moreover, as part of the “Wetlands” project, scientists have conducted the retrospective analysis of the formation of this micro-population of the European bison, assessing multi-year dynamics of population and reproduction. TheEuropeanbisonneedsbothpasture for grazing and a forest habitat to find shelter, so the creation of meadowlands between forests is ideal. This is what’s planned for the Nalibokskaya Pushcha, to help its population of the European bison. The“Wetlands”projectaimstoimprove the habitat conditions for the European bison living in the Nalibokskaya Pushcha, aiding the sustainability of the Belarusian population of this animal. The project is financed by the Global Environmental Facility and is being implemented by the UN Development Programme in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of Belarus. By Vladimir Mikhailov

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Green Office BSPU

First Green office

with BSPU

Venue encouraging sustainable development integrated into everyday life

ast December, the Belarusian State Pedagogical University (named after Maxim Tank) set up a Green Office resource centre on the pre m i s e s of t h e Natural Science Faculty. Now, this Green Office is being recognised at European level, listed among those in Europe and the wider world. Thirty-five green offices operate globally at present with another for ty-two s o on to be established. That run by the Belarusian St ate Pe d agog ic a l University is the first in Belarus, and the only one so far. Natalia Naumenko, the Dean of the Natural Science Faculty, initiated the launch, having passed her foreign internship in Germany, where she met representatives of the Green Office there, inviting them to Belarus. Over the past decade, representatives of the Hildesheim

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Green Office have helped raise awareness among teachers and students, aiding the Belarusian State Pedagogical University in setting up a similar structure. Having explained the steps to be taken, they sent over normative documents, helping promote connections. Within less than a year of launching, t he Gre en Of f ice at the Belarusian State Pedagogical University has become a regular participant at events, as well as organising university activities, master classes and educational games. “Our Green Office offers a window onto the surrounding world, enabling us to monitor modern trends in Green O f f i c e w or k , m ai nt ai n i n g awareness of the key principles of sustainable development and building a sustainable university on their basis. We’ve also helped build upon the BSPU’s reputation,” notes Ms. Naumenko.

By Olga Pralyuk

Good assistance to develop ties Senior Director of Penn Biden Centre for Diplomacy and Global Engagement (USA), Michael Carpenter, asserts Belarus should not be made to choose between eastern and western vectors

BELTA

The activity of the Belarusian Green Office has been praised by European colleagues. Co-ordinators of the BSPU Green Office have taken an online course: the Green office model by Anselm Grahl, a research officer with the Leuphana University of Lüneburg (Germany) and were granted a certificate on successful completion. Natalia Sologub, a scientific head of the Green Office BSPU resource centre, notes, “A co-operative memorandum has been signed between the BSPU and the University of Hildesheim, including interaction between offices and media exchange. Not only European states are keen to see sustainable development. However, we have to begin close to home, at local level, making the university sustainable. Our students are mediators who will pass along such ideas.” Natalia Tarnovetskaya, Green Office BSPU coordinator, adds, “Our Green Office is primarily a youth volunteer organisation which integrates principles of sustainable development into the everyday life of the student and teaching community. Our ideas also permeate the university’s scientific life. For example, there’s an experimental site for organic farming (one of our areas of activity), as well as a composting station at the university’s Zelenoe (Green) agro-biological station. It is located 20km from Minsk, where our chemists, biologists and geographers of tomorrow can visit.” Natalia Shevtsova, who’s also working on the project, notes that the university uses rather a lot of paper and has begun collecting used batteries. The BSPU Green Office is developing a project to install containers for separate waste collection and has set up various intriguing projects — from an ecological quest-game for schoolchildren at Zelenoe agro-biological station to a black-and-white path which visually explains the process of natural solar heating. There’s a ‘Green Classroom’ outside and, of course, various recycling ventures, including exchanging plastic bottles for apples. The office promotes healthy nutrition and has organised an eco-photo competition. There’s an ecoroute at the agro-biological station and the office also collects medicines, food and toys for homeless dogs. As part of the EWOCA project, an Alpine garden has been created on university territory, as well as a ‘hotel’ for insects (cells with various fillings, where it’s possible to observe insect life). The latter could become a fullyfledged zoological venue. EWOCA are European youth volunteer camps (in Germany, Italy and Belarus) facilitating young people from various European states getting to know one another. They encompass culture and education in the format of an international volunteer camp.

pinion

“Belarus is a sovereign country and, from my point of view, there’s no need to ask it to choose between its allies: between close historical and cultural ties with Russia and improved relations with the USA. It’s a false choice. We can improve our relations without this,” notes Mr. Carpenter. He adds that Bela rusian-US relations will normalise gradu ally but laments the lack of ambassadorial representation, since diplomacy aids wideranging co-operation, including economic. “Of course, it’s neces sary to develop rela tions at the level of nations while ensur ing close ties between Americans and Bela rusians.” Michael Carpenter Visiting the HighTech Park in Minsk, he praised Belarus’ achievements in the IT sphere, saying, “I’m astonished at the number of young and talented peo ple who work in this Park and the number of entrepreneurs who use this organisation as an incubator for their business ideas. Undoubtedly, we have a large number of contacts be tween the High-Tech Park and Silicon Valley in the USA. This assists further normalisation of our ties and strength ening of collaboration.” By Oleg Bogomazov

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ordial hosts

New trends in agro-ecotourism According to National Geographic, for the last two years, Belarus has been recognised as one of the best countries for agro-ecotourism

o d a y, m o r e t h a n 2,300 farmsteads are registered in Belarus, and t h is i ndust r y continues to grow, with new businesses setting up far more quickly than those leaving. Although farmsteads offer accommodation on a far smaller scale than hotels, recreation centres or sanatoriums, they’re growing in popularity, and fit well with our country’s image.

In the past and now The concept of agro-tourism is actually quite new for Belarus. Back in 2002, those wishing to travel through the countryside found it very difficult to locate a bed for the night, let alone one with a ‘proper’ bathroom. When infrastructure began to grow, many owners of the farmsteads realised that a business opportunity was opening up. Supported by local authorities and cultural workers, villages have been reviving, embracing folk traditions in a way that’s attractive to locals and visitors

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alike. Old handicrafts are growing in popularity once more, as are folk music groups, and schoolchildren are being given time to research their local traditions. For example, Zelvenskaya schoolchildren have recently released their own cookery book; tourists can order dishes prepared from the book at local cafes. Homestead hosts are creating their own, diverse tourist products, selling not only lodging and food, but ‘the making of memories’. Festivals, master classes, horse trekking and rafting are all popular ways to spend free time, while visitors also love museums, sp or t s e ve nt s and e du c at i ona l gatherings. In the countryside, the opportunity for outdoor activities is endless. Although each owner seeks to present their guests with a unique recipe for recreation, rural entrepreneurs are also liaising, to ensure they can offer a full programme to visitors. By forming clusters, they’re stronger together. For example, a farmstead owner in the Volozhin District who offers lessons in baking bread might advise guests to visit their neighbours, to

find out about beekeeping or go horse riding. Meanwhile, together, the cluster can offer a food festival. Everyone benefits, since tourists receive a more varied programme. Kukupolis has a corn maze for visitors to explore. Also, of course, if one guesthouse is full, they can recommend a neighbour’s accommodation. By working together, large-scale projects are possible. For example, the Volozhin Hotels Company plans to launch a cross-border route — ‘Along Vytautas’ Route’ — from Rakov to Trakai Castle in Lithuania, encou raging visitors to learn more about the history of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

In the future The Volozhin District plans to combine offerings from various farmsteads in a single basket: homemade breads, cheeses, honey and meat products — all organically produced. ‘Green’ farming is a direction for development for our rural tourism which is sure to attract guests. Meanwhile, farmers are offering farm tours, festivals and master classes. At

ordial hosts

Anatoly Kleschuk

Agro-estates in Belarus are comfortable and close to nature

DAK farm, you can visit the goats and see how dairy products are made. At a recent scientific and prac tical conference held jointly with Belagroprombank and the Ministry of Sp or t s and Tou r i s m , Va l e r i a Klitsounova — the Chair of Country Escape Belarusian Public Association — noted that homestead hosts need to show creativity and embrace innovation. Tourists are looking to create new memories of wonderful impressions, and will pay good money. While investment is useful, often, knowledge and creativity are more important. The rapid development of agro-tourism can be associated with the development of the IT industry, since the Internet offers agro-guesthouses the chance to reach potential visitors far and wide. Eco-friendliness, equality of gen der and ‘social responsibility’ are all popular ideas cross Europe, being a strong force in branding. The con cept of sustainable development is also important. Accordingly, Belarusian agro-tourism is turning to new focuses.

For example, there’s a new tourist route in the Volozhin District designed to be accessible to people with limited mobility, and a festival for the elderly, called ‘Creative Age’, being held at Belarusian farmsteads. Many hosts have a tradition of collaborating with the elderly, to find out more about folklore, handicrafts and recipes. Not just young people but pensioners are keen to become involved and it makes sense to combine the energy of the young with the wisdom of the older generation. Almost a third of tourist expen diture is on food, and 20-30 percent are keen to try ‘authentic’ recipes and ingredients, especially at the place of their production. Agro-estates can’t ignore gastronomy; however, not all Belarusians are experts in Belarusian cuisine. Country Escape is taking action to remedy this by promoting domestic recipes. Meanwhile, students are helping collect information on national cuisine, creating an interactive gastronomic map. The involvement of young people in rural businesses is another trend. For example,

students at the BSU’s International Relations Department planning to work with agro-tourism are networking with farmstead owners, finding out how to tap into the niche and create interesting projects in the countryside. Our villages could attempt to tap into the huge Chinese tourism market: approximately 145 million people who travel annually around the world. Last year, just three thousand guests from China visited our country but the potential is significant; this year, this number is set to double. Most are keen to see military-patriotic sites and to experience ‘red’ tourism. The question is how to entice them to farmsteads. The ‘Best Farmhouse of the Year’ competition has been held since 2008, with forty-six applications this year, from owners who’ve created an online presence, and have submitted photos and videos. Zapovedny Ostrov (Reserve Island) homestead, in the village of Sho (Glubokoe District, Vitebsk Region) was the last to claim the title. By Yelena Dedyulya

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Frantishek Zhilka:

‘I don’t preach to the winds’ In the Smorgon District’s Zhodishki, an old windmill is hosting a new cultural centre, encouraging visitors to learn about the history of Belarus and its folk traditions and crafts. Frantishek Zhilka is an advocate for drawing inspiration from the place in which we’re born, knowing that such locations hold special energy for us.

e has restored the old watermill which was owned by his grand father in the first half of the last century. Moreover, Fran tishek Zhilka contin ues its flour-grinding traditions, showing guests how they come by their delicious bread. He has also built a chapel at the nearby crossroads. Reserved and modest, Mr. Zhilka takes life at a steady pace. We might call him cautious, being in no hurry to promise anything or talk too much about himself. A typical Belarusian, perhaps! I met him twice in his small office, which is stylishly decorated, featuring photos of dear family members who have longsince passed away. Faded with age, they hold places of honour.

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After a little while, he seemed to re lax and our conversation flowed more easily, like water from a lake onto the wheel of his restored mill in Zhodishki. Mr. Zhilka clearly doesn’t like to boast, being content in his inner confidence, drawn from a sense of belonging in his beloved native land. Mr. Zhilka is a patriot, finding dignity in deeds rather than words. Here, he tells us about his love for his homeland: I was born in the village of Stavbut sevo. Once it was a ‘zastenok’ [a type of rural settlement beyond the village bor ders, which originated in the mid-16th century]. My great-grandfather arrived with four sons in 1900, buying property and settling. They came from the village of Slavchynyaty’s Roskosh, in the Smor gon District, where the family had lived

for two hundred years. Zhodishki is lo cated 6km from Stavbutsevo and has a rural council now. For most of my life, I’ve lived either in Stavbutsevo or in Zhodishki (where my parents Boleslav and Sofia worked their whole lives). For four years, we lived in Zhodishki but then returned and I began first grade, attending four grades in Stavbutsevo. The school was located on the estate of the cousin of my grand father, Felix Zhilka, who was exiled to Siberia after the revolution, sentenced to hard labour. He was given ten years but, because of heavy labour, one year was considered as two. Why was he sent? He was a village headman when Western Belarus was part of Poland, so was a representative of power: ‘an op pressor’ as Bolsheviks used to say. In Sep

tember 1939, new Soviet power came to Western Belarus and established its or der. Meanwhile, a village headman was an elected position, like our chair of the rural council. At that time, Felix Zhilka was a village headman of the Zhodishki gmina [a small unit of rural self-govern ment in Poland]. Moreover, he was one of the youngest village headmen across Poland at that time. Where did your mother live? She came from Zhodishki, being born there, in a house near the water mill. Her father worked at the mill all his life. Stavbutsevo and Zhodishki are your ‘homes’. When were you born? I was born on December 2nd, 1951. In the late summer of 1951 my mother was pregnant with me (I’m the elder son, having a younger brother) and was negotiating with the local kolkhoz. In spring, my grandfather had sowed all his fields: fifty hectares of land, includ ing forest. In the summer, they began to set up a kolkhoz in that location and wanted to take everything, including the harvest. The family would have been left with nothing. My mother was sent to the sessions, so I ‘took part’ in that process. Maybe, this is why I’m so active in life [smiles]. My mother managed to keep one field and we were given the opportunity to take its harvest. However, later, they claimed our cattle, agricultural equip ment and outbuildings. I remember that my granny had a barn but either in 1957 or 1958, it was also confiscated. As a small boy, I enjoyed spending time in the barn. Everything was clean, tidy and well-kept, in light-yellow colours. I re member the beautiful ladders. Those folk aesthetics made everything beautiful.

Now, we see those things only at the cinema or in old pictures… Not every peasant had money for such crafted buildings but my granny Stanislava’s brother was a forester and built her a good barn as a dowry when she married, for keeping grain and flour. It took place in Western Belarus later. After the war, kolkhozes were still operating but hadn’t been set up eve rywhere before the war. The chairmen weren’t drawn from the local popula tion, so they had nothing and relied on being given food by locals. Once, a former front-line soldier arrived from Russia, needing to build a house. So, the chairman of the kolkhoz took my gran ny’s barn to reequip it as a house for that front-line soldier. It was very painful for my grandmother. I remember her cry ing a great deal. Did those social upheavals inspire your work? I began in childhood and have been doing such work for as long as I can re member. I wasn’t shy. My mother liked to say that I’d manage to get into a pud dle even while at school. I was always clean and she dressed me very tidily, though I used to have adventures with the boys in the countryside. I remember having gunpowder explode in my hands and we also shot guns! These were our childhood games. Where did you study after elementary school? I went to school in Seravatki, 1.5km away, where I finished eight grades be fore going to secondary school in Pol yany. I travelled 6km each way on my ‘Riga-3’ moped, for which I still have

a license. After school, I entered the In stitute of Mechanisation of Agriculture, in Minsk (now, the Belarusian State Agrarian Technical University). There, I became a mechanical engineer of auto mobiles, and took my diploma at Dzer zhinsk’s Automobile Repair Plant. Did you want to return to the village to work? No. Actually, I wanted to be a steers man and sail on big ships at sea! After school, I even passed a medical exami nation. I wanted to enter the higher marine college with my classmates, in Kaliningrad. However, my father didn’t agree. He told me to study and become an engineer and if, later, I didn’t like this work, I could become a steersman. At that time, my father was working as a carpenter at a machine and tractor sta tion, while my mother was working as a cleaner for a psychiatric hospital in Zhodishki. She worked the last years before her pension as a cleaner in a laboratory. Did your parents earn enough to make a living? If a person is hard-working, he’ll never be without bread. My father also worked as a guard at the hospital and built houses in neighbouring villages with a brigade.

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Frantishek Zhilka at restored watermill

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Where did you go af33 ter the institute?

his previous job and we agreed to leave together in summer but, in the end, he decided to stay where he was, so I set up on my own. What did you begin from? One of the buildings on Minsk’s Smolyachkov Street housed a laboratory of labour and environmental protection. In 1993, it wasn’t being used by any of our ministerial institutes and, at that time, many laboratories were closing, having difficulties paying salaries and finding materials. I promised to fulfil

alexander kulikov

I served for two years with the army, in the Pruzhany District, where I helped head the technical repair station. Then, I went to Minsk to work at Mechani cal Transport Park #7, located near Se menovskaya Street. I was put forward for the post of chief engineer at the new Mechanical Transport Park in Smorgon at just 27 years old and, having no family, I agreed. I wanted to see what I could do in such a position. There was a lot to do,

at the Medical University. Her parents come from Zalesie, where the famous estate of Michał Kleofas Ogiński is being restored. Her father was a teacher and her mother was a medical employee: members of the rural intelligentsia. We married there and I already had a flat. I only went to Smorgon after stipulat ing that I’d be given a flat and admin istrative use of a car. However, my wife wanted to live in Minsk and, when I was offered work at the Ministry of Automo bile Transport in 1980, as a head of the

Ethnographic museum created inside old watermill

rebuilding and equipping, to allow con ditions to be comfortable, and I worked there for three years, alongside the build ers. Accordingly, I know this profession very well. Everything you’ve done in life has benefitted you. Each life experience is useful… It helps you gain confidence, and move forward. Didn’t you regret going to Smorgon? Not at all! I met my wife there. I went to gather cranberries and met her on the marshes! That’s very romantic… [laughing]. I remember walking through the marshes, with the ground shaking underfoot. Only small trees grow there. My wife, Alena Nikolaevna, née Melnik, was a student at the time,

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technical management department, we moved. Did you work there long? Until 1993. I don’t enjoy working with paper, sitting writing, but I per severed, knowing it was necessary to head the department. I studied orders and regulations: the whole normative base. Nevertheless, while working in the ministry, I dreamt of moving to an en terprise, close to machines and people. When, in 1993, everything was collaps ing, I decided to leave the ministry and organise my own business. Fra-Mil com pany stems from that time. What does the title stand for? Frantishek and Mikhail. My friend planned to partner me and suggested this name, which I was content to adopt. For just over six months, he worked at

all necessary works for the Ministry of Automobile Transport and they rented the premises. I kept everything and the laboratory is still operational. What sort of work happens there? Specialists make devices to measure levels of noise, vibration, illumination and various types of emissions in the workplace. They can probe the air and analyse it, for example, for dust or chem ical substances. This is important where there’s a harmful working environment. We travel all over Belarus and have a sanitary doctor and engineers among our staff. Are these services in demand? Of course. Previously, we could is sue reports which allowed an employee to receive a privileged pension, or a reduced working day and allowances,

because of a harmful working environ ment. Gosstandart is a special body also involved in certifying workplaces, with everything thoroughly verified, across various parameters. Are you the only such in Belarus or are there others similar? At first, we were the only ones, then a laboratory began operations at one of the chairs at the Polytechnic University. Your company now has various areas of activity. How did you enter the footwear market?

One was in Klin, near Moscow: a workshop at the rubber footwear factory. I believe Belarus would have bought that footwear, paying foreign currency, were it not for us getting involved. We’ve been working with them for twenty-five years now, providing boots to equestrian train ing schools. I brought back the first shoetrees in two bags by electric train; those were given to me by a director of the cooperative in Klin, which closed in 1994. They were wooden and heavy, dating from Soviet times, and we used them for about

Watermill

I realised that it wouldn’t be prof itable to run the chemical laboratory alone, as our production was too small. It was better to order analysis elsewhere, so we vacated the premises and donated our chemical equipment and tools to a child rehabilitation centre. We set up a show repair shop in the free room and things went well. We also decided to try shoemaking in another room, sewing fashionable footwear for women to meet ‘non-standard needs’. In the early 1990s, this was popular. Then, after having worked for 10-12 years we saw that the market was saturated, so we turned our attention to equestrian training schools in Belarus. When the Soviet Union col lapsed, old production facilities for such boots fell apart. Where were those located?

We learnt that, before the 1917 revo lution, a permanent equestrian squad ron was located at the Kremlin but was then given to the Film Studio. Now, horsemen have again returned to the Kremlin, wearing our boots. The order had to be met within one month. At first, the boots for those horse men had been made by the same firm as was making footwear for the guard of honour. However, the style needed to differ. We fulfilled the order on time and, since then, have been liaising with

Holiday near the mill in Zhodishki

seven years. Eventually, we replaced them, developing our own, which were even bet ter. My aim was to produce boots to rival those made in Western Europe. On a fivegrade scale, our work deserves a good four, against Western European standards. Who assesses your quality, and at which contests do you present your boots? Since 2002, we’ve taken part in inter national equestrian exhibitions in Mos cow and St. Petersburg. In 2003, at one such trade fair, people from the Federal Security Service of the Moscow Kremlin asked for us to sew twenty pairs of boots for an equestrian squadron. At that time, President Vladimir Putin had just come to power and the horse cavalry was being transferred to the Kremlin from Mos film Cinema Studio.

Moscow. Later, we were asked to make boots for the guard of honour. What about Belarusians? At first, the price seemed too high and we had a rival in the military tailor house. Now, we partially provide officials from the Interior Ministry and border guards. The Belarusian guard of honour also wears our boots, as does the motorcycle escort. All these departments have differ ing models of footwear. I actually helped design boots for motorcyclists, as I ride a motorbike myself, for fun. I’m pleased that the President of Turkmenistan liked the boots of the Belarusian motorcycle escort. Soon after his visit, within just a few days, Turkmenistan ordered fifty pairs and immediately transferred the payment, enabling us to fulfil the order without page

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We’ve also co-oper 35 delay. ated with Kazakhstan, so

our company boasts global fame. Restoring the watermill in Zhodishki has taken your time, including setting up the folk display there. Do you have other, similar projects, and what inspires you in this direction? How did it begin? I suppose the museum doesn’t generate financial profit… I love to visit my native places. My parents lived there, of course, although my mother died in 2015. Before that, I regularly visited her in Stavbutsevo. In Zhodishki, every July, there’s the huge festival of St. Anna. My mother’s broth ers once invited my mother, my wife and myself. We were sitting together at the festive table, with my uncles talking about the watermill in despair. They said that it had once belonged to our family, so I promised to repair everything. Have you ever regretted that decision? The following day, I was rather wor ried as to why I’d agreed; it seemed a great responsibility… But you’d promised… I try to keep my promises. Even with everything that happened in our history, my customers trusted me. When I said I’d do something, such as paying tomor row, I made sure I followed through.

Just as merchants used to do in the past, shaking hands to signify their agreement, as a word of honour. Who taught you to keep your word? My grandfather (my father’s father) taught me while I was living with him in Stavbutsevo. He instilled most of my moral principles. Until I was 14, I used to chat with him a great deal. He was a strong person, owning land before the kolkhozes were formed. I spent much time with him, going to the woods to pick mushrooms, as well as mowing and ploughing: all the village activities. It’s good to have a range of skills if you live in a village. There’s still a full hectare which wasn’t taken by the kolkhoz, and remains part of the garden. You are, probably, also a gardener? Of course! I live not far from Minsk and everything is planted primarily with decorative trees. I also have apple trees but not many; enough for my wife and myself. I remember that we had fifty ap ple trees in Stavbutsevo. Did you sell apples? Yes; my father took good apples to Moscow. Sometimes, heavy trucks ar rived from there. We harvested apples in the garden ourselves: my parents, my grandparents, my brother and I. My brother became a military man and now lives in Bobruisk.

At the equestrian competition, International horse exhibition in Moscow, 2010

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Do you have a photo of your grandfather? This is a photo of my grandmother [shows us], of my grandfather and my father’s mother. This is his brother Fran tishek, who died in 1939, during WWII. Your grandfather, being strong, brought you up to take pride in your activities. It’s likely that my thirst for business comes from those genes. Can you imag ine… as a pupil in the fourth or fifth grade, I was gathering rowanberries for sale, with those in charge of livestock feed arriving and taking them. Then, I raised rabbits: sixty or seventy. I still remember taking them to sell, in autumn, when it was very cold. I was sitting in an open vehicle with cages of rabbits, together with adults car rying pigs and calves. Those were my en trepreneurial beginnings. I actually raised the rabbits on my own, as my parents had other business to attend to. Later, they bought a motorbike for me, the owner ship document for which is still in my safe. Where did the name Frantishek come from? My grandfather’s brother, who died during the war, was named Frantishek. When I was born, my grandmother Stanislava insisted that I was named af ter him. He served in the Polish Army from 1937 until 1939. They said that he returned home in the spring of 1937 but went to war in the autumn of 1939 and died there. They say that everything in life is inter-connected. In your childhood, you had a motorbike and later became a machinery repair engineer and finally a biker… Your company specialises in equestrian footwear, so it’s possible that, in your childhood, you were somehow connected with horses. Were you? Of course. My rural childhood was connected with horses. Previously, land was ploughed with the help of horses, especially homestead land. At that time, horses were in short supply and, as my parents didn’t work on the kolkhoz, we were the last to receive a horse. We had to borrow them from those villagers who’d already made use

of them. It was my duty to take them back and forth. Did you go horse riding? I did, even falling off twice, not hav ing a saddle. Once, a sharp turn caused me to fall, and the second time was due to the horse galloping, then stopping suddenly from fright, making me fly over its head. I could ride rather well, mind you. Do you go horse riding now? Yes; at ‘Urozhainy’ equestrian cen tre, near Senitsa, not far from Minsk. I go at the weekend from time to time, by motorcycle. My coach, Boris, jokes that ‘I change one horse for another’. I also take part in biker rallies. Have you been keen on machinery since childhood? Yes; my father also had a motorbike and, when I was twelve, I was already riding locally, on my own. As a child, did you dream of having your own motorcycle? All my life, I dreamt of having my own motorbike. I’d had permis sion to ride a motorbike from the age of sixteen and did so without a license, as many did back then, in the 1960s. However, when I was sev enteen and a half years old, I gained my license to ride officially, passing the test, although I didn’t receive the corresponding documents until I was eighteen. I used to ride other people’s motorbikes, borrowing either from neighbours or friends if I needed to. However, my dream continued, and I eventually bought a motorcycle at the age of sixty. Cool! Dreams should come true! By the way, you could have invested this money into business and earned more… There were some business propos als, enabling me to earn good money, but wealth has never been the main goal for me, since too much money brings problems. It’s better to work for yourself, as a hobby. I really enjoy sew ing equestrian boots because I know that, in the history of Soviet Belarus, no one else did so. Everything was

‘Motorcycling is my hobby’

brought from Russia, in the centralised manner, It’s also prestigious to create better boots than those previously pro duced and it’s a great honour for us to sew boots for the guards of honour. How many workers do you employ? Around forty. We have a Belarusianlanguage dentistry and our areas of ac tivity are diverse. We have five or six, as it’s difficult for a company to stay afloat if it works only in one sphere of activ ity. Sometimes, one sphere shows best results while, the following year, another brings greater profit. In this way, every thing is balanced. There’s rural wisdom in that, as villagers from ancient times grew various agricultural crops: wheat, rye, barley, oats, buckwheat, maize and raps, potatoes and beets. Some give a good harvest while others don’t but, depending on weather conditions, the farm will make a profit. We try to follow this example, en deavouring to work profitably. In our twenty-five years of operation, we’ve never delayed in paying taxes. This is my principle. Taxes come first and then salaries. Sometimes, we delayed for two weeks, at the latest, but no longer. Does your mill in Zhodishki generate a profit? At present, it’s unprofitable. Over twenty-five years, I’ve invested much into

its restoration and maintenance. Today, it looks no worse than it did immediately after restoration, as we continue im proving and decorating. The watermill’s three-storey building has a folk museum and we’ve paved the road with stone nearby, as well reinforcing the walls. We’ve also heard about your chapel… It’s located in Stavbutsevo, directly where, before the war, my uncle Fran tishek placed an oak cross. It stood for sev enty years before falling. We named the chapel in honour of St. Francis of Assisi. Do you always speak Belarusian? Very few involved in business speak Belarusian these days. From my birth, I’ve always spoken Belarusian. However, you did study in Minsk, and served in the army, and worked in the ministry, where Russian language was in daily use. At home, we spoke only Belarusian, with my mother and the whole family; our neighbours spoke in this way as well. Moreover, I studied at Belarusianlanguage schools and passed my insti tute exams in Belarusian: mathematics and physics. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, our ministry was shifting to wards Belarusian language, so knowl edge of Belarusian helped me quickly sign documents for the page ministry.

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Do you also speak Be37 larusian with your wife

at home? Yes. What about your children? They’re Russian-speaking. I have two daughters and five great-grand daughters. Does your company operate in Russian? Yes, but, since 1993, since its foun dation, all signs, announcements and price lists have been in Belarusian. As I’ve already said, our dentistry is also Be larusian-speaking, with administrators speaking Belarusian, and doctors also partially speaking the language. We even give a 5 percent discount to those clients who speak Belarusian. It’s not enough just to say ‘hello’ and ‘good bye’ in Belarusian. I believe that people need to be encouraged to speak their native language; moreover, it’s a state language in our country. We’ve heard that your estate is designated as an historic site. Is it true? You’ve prepared well for our interview. Yes; our house is located in the village of

Pereseka, on the estate of Yan Bulgak. The fence of my estate is situated within 10m of his house. He was the first painter and photographer of Belarus, Poland and Lithuania. I’ve conducted some research on him, working in the archives, and even released a small book on the subject. I’ve been keen on history since childhood and remember reading thick books in third and fourth grade, though I didn’t understand all the words. My extensive reading comes from early childhood, though I didn’t read so much when I was an older student. You’ve also written essays on travelling along the Viliya River with your friend, and released a book. Tell us about that. My good friend from Zhodishki (from the time when we lived near the mill) is Alexander Kostyuchenko. His father headed the machine and tractor station where my father worked. They were friends, so Alexander and I played together, and kept in touch. Once, while we were chatting, he mentioned making a new boat and I said how lovely it would

be to sail on a pilgrimage. He agreed to sail along the Viliya River to Zalesie, from the silicate factory to the border with Lithuania. In 2003, we sailed for seven days, jotting down notes on what we saw and how we felt. Alexander en couraged me to release a small book and, nine years later, in 2012, it was published. In 1996, I began to deal with the water mill and was working in Vilnius Archives, looking for materials connected with the mill, as well as other information. I often came across interesting facts. Our land has a very curious history and there’s what I wanted to write about. My cousins lived in Zhodishki and I used to stay with them for long periods of time. I had to spend a year like that, while I prepared everything. I think the book contains interesting facts for those who’ll come after us. It’s available electronically at the National Library and all who read it seem to find it interesting. My mother read it three times… You’ve also researched your genealogical tree… Are you proud of it? Of course, it can’t be otherwise… By Ivan and Valentina Zhdanovich Zhilka family genealogical tree

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mpressions

British presents a guidebook to Belarus Lawyer and writer Nigel Roberts shows his edition at the Sports and Tourism Ministry of Belarus During the negotiations, the Depu ty Sports and Tourism Minister Mikhail Portnoy made a proposal to prepare a separate collection dedicated to the 2nd European Games 2019 in Minsk that would include information about the sporting facilities which will be host

ing the event, about the people who are involved in this large-scale project, as well as places that foreign tourists will be able to visit. Nigel Roberts assured him that it would be a pleasure for him to write this book. By Darya Lobazhevich

mst.by

c c ord i n g t o t h e author, the book, which already enjoys popularity in Eng land, is not merely a collection of sights of the country, but an authoritative, sometimes emotional, but always sin cere narration about the country, about meetings with people and participation in interesting events. “I try to tell simple human stories which help people to bet ter understand the local residents, their manners, habits and mentality,” notes Ni gel Roberts. “I also give practical advice on how to choose housing, routes to travel, what to see and which dishes of national cuisine to taste. I receive letters from my fellow countrymen telling me that after reading the guidebook, it was much easier for them to travel through Belarus. I have long fallen in love with this country and I’d like foreigners to visit it more often.” Nigel Roberts first got acquainted with Belarus in 2001 and after seven years he released his first guidebook to our country with a circulation of 4,500 copies which quickly spread among British readers. Since then, he has been to Belarus more than thirty times.

Deputy Director of 2nd European Games 2019 Directorate, Anatoly Kotov, attends meeting with British writer

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unior Eurovision-2018

‘Lighting up’ hundred percent

BELTA

Junior Eurovision contest held in our country for second time is named one of the best of all time

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On November 25th, millions around the world watched the online and television broadcast of the finals of the International Junior Eurovision Song Contest‑2018, as hosted by Minsk. With voting by the national jury being added to the audience vote, the intrigue continued until the last moments of the show. Musical professionals praised the mature performance by Australia’s Jael, followed by her rivals from Malta and Georgia, while the audience vote was in favour of girls from Poland and France. As a result, the major prize — a crystal microphone — went to Poland’s Roksana Węgiel, singing ‘Anyone I Want to Be’. She earned 215 points, outstripping Angélina Nava of France (205 points) and Jael of Australia (201 points). “Roksana had a very energetic and bright performance, confidently performing and conquering the hearts of spectators,” noted the Executive Supervisor for Junior Eurovision, Jon Ola Sand. “I was very pleased that the audience was so engaged, supporting the finalists, and that this year saw such a spectacular show.” Behind the scenes representatives of the European Broadcasting Union many times named the Minsk contest ‘the best in the whole history of the event’, raising the bar set by Belarus back in 2010, when our country first welcomed Junior Eurovision. In the press centre, winner Roksana was welcomed with a long ovation and a photo session before being bombarded with questions on how she felt and to whom she wanted to dedicate her victory. She was also asked to name her own personal favourite from the contest. Roksana was very excited but tried to give complete answers, saying, “I’m dedicating my victory to my country, my father and our delegation. If it hadn’t been for your support, probably, I wouldn’t have achieved such a result. Until the last moment, I couldn’t believe that I’d win. Now, I feel complete shock and happiness. I don’t even know how to express my emotion in words.

J All the participants were so strong, with such good voices and songs, that I can’t single out anyone or even my favourite five. Each of us deserves this statuette!” Roksana is thirteen years old and began singing while at a sports camp with friends, during karaoke. She astonished everyone and it was suggested that she take music and singing seriously. Her debut single — ‘Zyi’ — was released this year and boasts more than 8.8 million views online. Moreover, this year, Roksana has also won the first season of the Polish TV show, ‘Golos. Kids’ and plans to record her

unior Eurovision-2018 As for our Belarusian entrant, even among the record number of young talents taking part, Daniel Yastremsky made himself heard, performing worthily against strong rivals, and finishing eleventh, thanks to high points from professional jury members of Armenia, Portugal, Malta, the Netherlands and Azerbaijan. The children embracing and congratulating each other on the stage knew that they were all winners. The Belarusian jury gave its highest scores to Australia (12), Malta (10) and France (8). Thinking ahead, Ivan Eismont, the general producer of the show and

Executive Supervisor Jon Ola Sand:

“I was very pleased that the audience was so engaged, supporting the finalists, and that this year saw such a spectacular show.” debut album, as well as performing in concert. Roksana also loves acrobatics and dance and has seen significant success in judo. Of course, she dreams that the next Junior Eurovision will take place in Warsaw.

Chairman of Belteleradiocomapny, tells us, “Give us some time to gather our breath and we’ll tell you about the national selection round for the adult competition.” By Victoria Teleshuk

Winner Roksana Węgiel, from Poland

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reativity

delicacy of paper laces Vytinanka is the art of cutting paper to create a lace effect, most often creating snowflakes that are attached at windows through the Christmas and New Year holiday. However, those who are skilled can make all manner of designs. Professor Yevgeny Sakhuta, a researcher of Belarusian folk culture, singles out Molodechno Vytinanka as a separate phenomenon.

ow, we can learn more, thanks to an exhibition organised by Molodechno’s Vy tinanka school, hosted by Minsk’s National History Museum, featuring artists who were among the founders of this school: Natalia Cher vontseva, Yelizaveta Chervontseva and Lyudmila Volko vich-Boris. Vytinanka is an ancient art which gradually lost popularity. However, a revival began in the 1970s. Folk master Victoria Chervontseva was the first to train in the art of paper cutting — at a children’s art school and

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C then at the Department of Arts and Crafts at Molodechno’s Michał Kleofas Ogiński Music College. Thanks to her efforts, the Molodechno Vytinanka school was established, having its own distinctive features: precise composition, symbolism and special cutting techniques. “The Molodechno school uses mythological images, traditional motifs and, even, inspiration from ancient B elarusian architecture a n d n at i on a l c o s tu m e s . T h e s e are included in the training ‘c u r r i c u lu m’,” e x p l ai ns Nat a l i a Chervontseva, who teaches vytinanka at Molodechno’s Michał Kleofas Ogiński Music College. “Modern motifs appear in the works of those who finish their studies in Molodechno and enter higher art schools.” Vy t i n a n k a m a s t e r s N a t a l i a Sukhaya and Olga Baburina are also bright representatives of the reviving tradition. “Speaking of a certain art school, we’re talking about a special manner. If you look at works created by young Molodechno people, you’ll see trends in cutting styles. Vytinanka teachers work in schools, clubs and kindergartens.” All through the city, over the New Year holiday, you’ll see homes decorated with Vytinanka designs, as well as schools and kindergartens. Yelizaveta Chervontseva has made graffiti in Minsk using the technique while Konstantsia Gerasimenko, who studied costume design at the Academy of Arts, tries to introduce the idea into her fashion designs. In fact, our ancestors did the very same thing, cutting lengths of cloth in special ways to decorate them. Konstantsia has drawn inspiration from an historical sketch of the 11th century to decorate linen, before sewing into costumes. Well-known local artist Yuri Gerasimenko-Zhiznevsky was among the founders of the Molodechno s cho ol, s ett ing out t he g raphic principles of Vytinanka and using

symbolic motifs. Young seamstresses worked from his exquisite sketches, which are still referred to today. “Vytinanka is a form of expression of feelings,” says Natalia Cher vontseva. “It uses symmetry, and it’s fascinating to see the image unfold, presenting a new composition. You can invent so much, for example, departing from national motifs to express philosophical thoughts. Vytinanka is like calligraphy. The Chinese believed that the skill of beautiful writing developed spiritual qualities and was therapeutic. It’s true that paper products have this benefit. Just take scissors and press against your acupuncture points on your palm and you’ll feel pleasure. It’s a kind of antidepressant.”

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Vytinanka — the oldest of the folk crafts — is associated with the invention of paper in China. Over time, it became popular in Europe. In Poland, Ukraine and Belarus, cutting images from paper were named ‘Vytinanka’ and were based on a method used to protect sealed documents. A sheet of paper, folded four times, was cut along its edges with scalloped patterns

By Nina Shcherbachevich

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heatrical chronicles

Hot December 2018 closes with the 9th Minsk International Christmas Opera Forum and the 5th Minsk International Christmas Singing Competition, hosted by the Bolshoi Theatre of Belarus. In addition, a new version of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ is premiering, staged by Valentin Yelizariev, the theatre’s Artistic Director.

ecember is a special month for the Bolshoi Theatre, being rich in events eagerly anticipated, with fans knowing that each performance brings festive joy.

On the theme of eternal love

Mercuzio played by Honoured Artiste of Belarus, Konstantin Geronik

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The premiere of the new staging of ‘Romeo and Juliet’, by Valentin Yelizariev, is a success. Based on William Shakespeare’s tragedy, it was last staged by the Director at the Bolshoi Theatre in 1988. Thirty years have passed, but Mr. Yelizariev’s innovative ballet has again delighted the public and theatre critics, allowing the artistes to display their talent and individuality in this moving story of the power of love, regardless of all enmity. Mr. Yelizariev once said, “Our performance is about love and hate,

Т about sincere friendship and senseless enmity; immortal as love, strong as death, like an eternal question that humanity again and again asks itself…” These words never lose their power. This time, the falling curtain brought ovations, shouts of ‘bravo’, long applause, smiles and bouquets of flowers… An hour before the start of the performance, the audience had the opportunity to meet ballet critic Svetlana Ulanovskaya in the Chamber Hall, where she offered her insight into the history of various staged interpretations of the classic ballet. As a result, the audience was able to gain understanding of Mr. Yelizariev’s vision, as artistic director. For many decades, choreographers have been inspired by Sergei Prokofiev’s score, as evinced by productions from Yuri Grigorovich, Kenneth Macmillan, Rudolf Nureyev, Angelin Preljocaj, and Radu Poklitaru.

Jubilee: fifth! The Theatre received over three hundred applications to participate in the International Christmas Singing Competition, from twenty-six coun tries — including Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, Italy, Canada, USA, China, Korea, Finland, Romania, Greece, Germany, Turkey, Venezuela, Serbia, Sweden, Israel, Poland, Estonia, South Ossetia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Armenia, and Lithuania. Traditionally, those from Russia, Belarus and Ukraine are most in attendance, covering a variety of voices, from soprano, mezzo-soprano and tenor, to baritone, bass, bass-baritone and even counter-tenor (highest male voice) and contralto (lowest female voice). Over the years, the Christmas contest in Minsk has grown in reputation, its participants and finalists becoming known to opera lovers worldwide! As in previous years, the jury of seventeen arrived f rom Fr an c e , G e r m any, It a l y, Bulgaria, Austria, the UK, Russia and Ukraine, headed by the General

Director of the Bolshoi Theatre, Vladimir Gridyushko. In its four years existence, the contest’s honorary members of the jury have presented the winners with twenty-one special awards and ten engagements at the Bolshoi Theatre of Belarus. In line with ‘protocol’, young vocalists saw three rounds of сompetition. After the first, thirty remained and only ten reached the final, fighting for the Grand Prix of $10,000, followed by awards of $8,000, $6,000 and $4,000, plus the traditional Audience Prize. Winners and laureates were announced at a gala concert on December 19th. These include Ksenia Nesterenko (Russia) who claimed the Grand Prix, Lauren Michelle (USA) — a laureate of the First Prize and the Audience Prize, and Dmitry Ivanchei (Russia) — a laureate of the Second Prize, alongside Emmett O’Hanlon (USA) and Anastasia Malashkevich (Belarus) who shared the Third Prize. They also performed on December 21st — at a gala concert of world opera stars.

heatrical chronicles

Valentin Yelizariev, Artistic Director of the Bolshoi Theatre: ‘I’d like this theatre to enjoy worldwide popularity — not only at European but at world level. Of course, much work lies ahead. For me, creativity is crucial and I promise that artistic merit won’t be compromised.’

Merry Christmas! Opera Forum 2018 was the ninth in a row, including four opera perfor mances and two major gala concerts. It opened on December 13th in grand fashion, with the audience in evening wear and festive outfits, creating a lovely atmosphere. Before the start of the performance, many took photos next to the huge Christmas tree, wearing radiant smiles. The first of the performances was a premiere of ‘Don Pasquale’, by Donizetti, staged by the theatre’s chief director, Mikhail Pandzhavidze, drawing on the style of ‘The Barber of Seville,’ which combines the feel of commedia dell’arte with opera traditions. ‘Don Pasquale’ is seen as a bench mark for light-hearted opera, featuring humour and comic twists of the plot, as well as comic dressing situations, creating a festive atmosphere. However, page

Romeo and Juliet, played by Honoured Artistes of Belarus, Lyudmila Khitrova and Oleg Yeromkin. They dance with inspiration, living life on stage, filled with joy from first love and its tragic end.

Lauren Michelle (USA) — laureate of the First Prize and the Audience Prize

Final scenes of gala-concert featuring world opera stars, as well as winners of 5th Minsk International Christmas Singing Competition

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heatrical chronicles

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In ‘Don Pasquale’ opera, director Mikhail Pandzhavidze shows inventiveness, keeping audiences entranced with lively action, an amusing plot, and costumed disguises designed by Yekaterina Shimanovich

Yekaterina Golovleva, an international contest winner, dreamt of singing Salomé and now takes leading role, conquering its complexity with ease

‘Swan Lake’ ballet enjoys major popularity worldwide

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all the b est 45 asc omwith e d y, hu m ou r i s

tinged with poignancy — in this case over the bittersweet of passing youth. The opera was one of the last for Donizetti, composed at the zenith of his fame and in the heyday of his creativity. It launched just as the composer’s illness began progressing and, two years later, he was obliged to give up composing altogether. “I laugh, but you know that I have sorrow in my heart, which I hide under the tinsel of fun,” Donizetti wrote to one of his relatives. It’s little wonder that he captured so well the sadness that can be inspired even as we laugh. Life at any age is beautiful, as the opera emphasises. On December 15th, Olga Peretyatko (who is often likened to one of the most popular modern opera performers — Anna Netrebko) sang of human passions and love, in her coloratura soprano. Having performed at the Vienna and Berlin Opera, the Zurich Opera House, La Scala in Milan, the Royal Theatre in Madrid, the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow, the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, and the Metropolitan Opera in New York, she is known for her charming vocals. This was her first lead-solo performance at the Bolshoi stage, enchanting everyone with her nightingale trills. Meanwhile, the maestro from Italy, Gianluca Marciano (who was the main guest conductor of the Bolshoi Theatre), took the stand. Other performances included ‘Tosca‘, featuring Serbia’s Dragana Radakovic as Floria (lyric-dramatic soprano), who has performed on nu me rou s worl d op e r a st age s . Honoured Artiste of Russia, People’s Artiste of Tatarstan, and laureate of the Golden Mask National Theatre Award, Akhmed Agadi, sang the role of Tosca’s lover, delighting Belarusian opera fans, who view him as a favourite. ‘La Bohème’, by Giacomo Puccini, was the next opera featured, as was premiered last season, directed by

famous Moscovite Alexander Titel. It featured Lvov Opera’s Ukrainian tenor soloist Mikhail Malafiy (gues ting at the Bolshoi Theatre of Belarus), who is adored by the Minsk public. He won the First Prize and the Audience Prize at the 2nd Minsk International Christmas Singing Competition. Richard Strauss’ ‘Salomé’ completed the quartet, as recently premiered by director Mikhail Pandzhavidze, with Viktor Ploskina conducting, and featuring our Belarusian stars. Yekaterina Golovleva‘s heartfelt singing, as displayed so well in ‘Turandot’, was a delight, as always. I’m her devoted fan. The Christmas Opera Forum ended with a grand gala concert of world opera stars, attended by winners of the Minsk contest of young vocalists of past years, as well as winners of this year’s competition. Alexander Anisimov conducted.

Tours The leading editor of the Infor mation Department of the Bolshoi Theatre, Yelena Balabanovich, notes that, for the eighth time, the ballet troupe of the Bolshoi Theatre of Belarus is going on tour to Austria and Germany for the holiday season. From December 14th to January 21st, the troupe will be appearing at the largest theatre venues in Frankfurt and Bremen, Hamburg and Leipzig, Berlin and Hanover, Munich and Dortmund, Salzburg and Vienna. Performing such legendary ballets as ‘Swan Lake’ and ‘The Nutcracker, or Another Christmas Story’, by Piotr Tchaikovsky, they’ll give thirty-three performances over this period. People’s Artiste of Belarus Yuri Troyan, the Artistic Director of the Bolshoi Theatre’s Ballet, tells us, “Eve ry year, it’s easier organisationally, be cause, naturally, many things have already been acquired. At the same time, responsibility increases, as we’re going to a public awaiting us. About five or six years ago, audiences first

Т attended our performances, falling in love with them. Since then, they’ve returned annually, and we mustn’t let them down. They know us and give us a warm welcome, wanting to celebrate our achievements. Accordingly, it’s a huge responsibility! Residents of Austria and Germany will again see Tchaikovsky’s two great ballets, with wonderful music and interesting choreography. Always playing to a full house, these ballets are determined ‘winners’. ‘Swan Lake’ is a huge success worldwide, popular in every country, having its own special magic. As a Slavic troupe, trained in classical Russian ballet, Belarusians know how to dance this ballet in a way that even experienced Western troupes may not achieve, lacking true feeling for Tchaikovsky’s music —

its freedom, melodiousness and cantilena. We seem to have almost a genetic empathy for the maestro’s works. It’s no surprise that European audiences love to see Slavic troupes perform ‘Swan Lake’. Meanwhile, ‘The Nutcracker’ is a much loved, beautiful fairy-tale, fitting perfectly the spirit of Christmas and the New Year. After a short break, the Belarusian ballet will once again go on tour, at the end of February — to Mexico. The repertoire is now being discussed for the tour, when sees the troupe return in early April. If all goes well, I will again lead this tour. Since my youth, I’ve become accustomed to this touring life and can hardly say how many countries and cities I’ve visited.” By Valentina Zhdanovich

Scene from Alexandra Tikhomirova’s ‘Nutcracker or One More Christmas Story’ ballet

heatrical chronicles

‘Ballet is a serious profession which requires effort, nerve, devotion and love for art, particularly for dancing…’ Yuri Troyan — a laureate of the 2014 National Theatre Award — has been Artistic Director of the Ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre of Belarus since 2009. The dancer, teacher, ballet master, stage director and choreographer has been serving his theatre for half a century and has toured over eighty countries, including across Europe, Asia and Africa

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raditional project

have long admired the Bolshoi Theatre’s choir and eagerly aw ait e a c h p e r for m an c e , knowing that I’ll experience such strong emotions. Every moment on stage is well-con structed, making you want to capture every impression, to

recall later. The Bolshoi choir is wellloved by Belarusian connoisseurs of classical music and critics alike, bring ing to life each performance so vividly that we feel its movement within our selves. The professionalism of the artistes is without question, as is the skill of

the choirmaster-conductor. Under chief director Mikhail Pandzhavidze, the choir has sung ‘Aida’, ‘Nabucco’, ‘ Turandot’, ‘Macbeth’, ‘Cavalleria Rusticana’, ‘Grey Legend’, ‘Tosca’, and ‘The Tsar’s Bride’, among other compositions. Speaking of ‘Turandot’, Mr. Pandzhavidze stresses that he

Choir in ‘Eugene Onegin’ performance

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raditional project

Scene from ‘La Bohème’ performance

encouraged the choir to use Konstantin Stanislavsky’s methodology, to embody the characters. He explains that there’s then no need for finer direction to ‘step left, then right, take three steps and sit here’. “Of course, some blocking is needed but I encourage the choir to move as they feel most natural, adding their own personal accents. It’s vital in terms of bringing opera to life. I’m no pioneer, as some of my colleagues already apply this approach, but with varying degrees of success.” The recent premiere of ‘Salomé’ showed the choir at its best, directed by People’s Artiste of Belarus Nina Lomanovich — who is the chief choirmaster of the Bolshoi Theatre, having joined at the age of 25 (working alongside Mr. Pandzhavidze and other directors). She lives and breathes for the Bolshoi choir, giving it her heart’s blood. Speaking of ‘La Traviata’ on the eve of the premiere, chatting with journalists, she noted that it was a modern interpretation of the opera by Lithuanian director Andrejs Zhagars. As her second production of the work,

it required a new approach. The chorus play the role of Flora and Violetta’s friends, who gather at balls, having fun, drinking, singing, dancing, and falling in love. “Accordingly, in the choral score, there are calls for brillante and agitato singing, which I call

Operatic Music’, comprising operatic hits which may not have been staged for some time. Of course, this requires rehearsal, to refresh the memory of the choir. “It’s been almost three years since the last performance but, recently, the theatre presented a major concert with

Chorus of the Bolshoi Theater — a great artistic power. Every moment on stage is well-constructed, making you want to capture every impression, to recall later ‘dashed’. A special attitude is required, unlike that usually used by the chorus. They sing explosively, giving rapid responses.” ‘La Traviata’ sees the choir singing impressively, more than in many other Bolshoi Opera Theatre productions. Ms. Lomanovich thus had the idea of the chorus singing a concert version as part of the ‘Masterpieces of Choral

a new programme — in two theatrical parts,” comments Ms. Lomanovich. The first was costumed, under the supervision of Galina Galkovskaya, who has been working with the theatre for many years. She created an interesting wardrobe for the concert and professional video series, also proposing misepage en-scènes.

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raditional project

Liubou Malyshava

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lsho i The

ted atre Choir is unique and multi-face

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The concert team 49 included choreographer

Olga Kostel, choirmaster Sergey Agranovich, and conductor Ivan Kostyakhin. Speaking of Mr. Kostya khin’s work with the choir, Ms. Loma novich comments, “ The maestro ‘breathes’ with us, being aware of all our subtleties and difficulties. He holds not only the orchestra but the choir in the palm of his hand.” The first part opened with ‘Oh, a Wound on Ivan’, by Belarusian composer Alexey Turenkov, from the ‘Flower of Happiness’ opera, first staged in the early 1950s. Alexander Dargomyzhsky’s ‘Mermaid’ hadn’t been staged at the theatre for over thirty years but the choir sang ‘In a Light Room’ from it. The choir’s solo capabilities also cam e to the fore, with the ‘under studies’ and young singer Anast asia Balabanova singing the wedding choir and Antonida’s romance from Mikhail Glinka’s ‘Ivan Susanin’. The opera was last staged at the theatre over three decades ago and, according to ‘Parterre’ magazine, was a success not only in Minsk but in Moscow — during the troupe’s performance at the Bolshoi Theatre of Russia. In Minsk, it was staged by Alexander Anisimov, the Chief Conductor of the State Academic Symphony Orchestra of Belarus. He still works with the Bolshoi Orchestra, combining this with main work at the Philharmonic. In early September, we saw the maestro conducting ‘Tosca’ and ‘Car men’. As expected, Mr. Anisimov was in great shape. In an interview, he commented, “I can hardly imagine myself without the ‘child’ to whom I devoted sixteen years of my life. Plans for the orchestra’s work in the new Philharmonic season were drawn up even before I received a proposal from the General Director of the Bolshoi T he at re, Vl a d i m i r Gr i dy ush ko. Accordingly, my rehearsals and performances with the orchestra will continue. I’m very glad that I can

raditional project

Nina Lomanovich, chief choirmaster of the Bolshoi Theatre, is always on good form creatively

combine work for the Philharmonic and the Bolshoi Theatre. I led the orc hestr a for eight years, while working as chief conductor for the Samara Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, which I visited several times a month (flying with two changes). Now, of course, it will be easier, since everything is situated in one city. Once again, my major dream has come true: I’m back with my favourite theatre.” We hope Mr. Anisimov will also help rehearse the new choral programme. In the first part of the concert, the choral scenes from the famous Russian opera ‘Khovanshchina’, by Modest Mussorgsky, featured experienced opera soloists — such as Honoured Artiste of Belarus Oleg Melnikov (playing Prince Khovansky) and newcomer Olga Malinovskaya (as Yaroslavna). The Minor Official and Kuzka were performed by international festival winners Yanosh Nelepa and

Yuri Bolotko. The male choir also demonstrated its mastery in ‘The Night’, from Anton Rubinstein’s ‘Demon’ opera. In the second part, where the Euro pean classics were presented, the male choir acted out the military camp scene from Giuseppe Verdi’s ‘Troubadour’, led by Ilya Pevzner. Manrico was performed by People’s Artiste of Belarus Sergey Frankovsky. Pieces from Giuseppe Verdi’s ‘Don Carlos’, ‘Othello’, and ‘Macbeth’ featured, each dramatic and beautiful, with great depth and expressiveness. The brilliant Italian composer’s operas are always thrilling to listen to, drawing us into the vibrant rhythms. The Bolshoi Theatre’s choir com prises over seventy people and is as old as the theatre itself, founded in 1933. Most chorus members are graduates of the Vocal Department of the Belarusian Academy of Music and

have performed many operas, most of which — including ‘Turandot’ — require the highest singing and acting skills. The choir also sings in some ballets. Solo concerts take place every three years, making them a rare treat. T he vo c a l p owe r and u n it y, musicality and subtlety of the choir, with its rich timbre, has been highly praised during its tours of Germany, Israel, Spain, Poland, Por tugal, Switzerland, Thailand and other countries. Online, ‘Das Opernglas’ magazine left a wonderful review of the Bolshoi Theatre’s performance in Germany: ‘The real treasure was the chorus, under the direction of Nina Lomanovich. Beautiful sounding and with exemplar y cohesion, it demonstrates wide dynamic scale of pace and expressiveness. For these great qualities, it is always warmly welcomed by the public’. By Valentina Zhdanovich

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elics

Unique wooden church of folk motifs The Belarusian church built in London by the Belarusian diaspora, and designed by architect Tszwai So, has received numerous awards in architectural competitions

ompeting with buildings created by the best archi tectural schools in the world, it has repeatedly been recognised as the winner. Its аrchitectural sophistication and ma jestic elevation combine with comfort and a homely atmosphere. The church is now being nominated for the title ‘best building in Europe’! A correspondent from ‘Zviazda’ has been chatting with architect Tszwai So, asking about his sources of inspiration and the nuances of the building’s construction. Mr. Tszwai, you’ve travelled through Belarus, studying local and national architecture. You’ve said that local buildings inspired you greatly. Tell us about this inspiration. Belarusian architecture covers many styles, from various eras. A striking example from the 16th century is the Gothic fortified church, made from brick, in Murovanka. Then, from the 20th century, there are constructivist masterpieces by Langbard. I mainly studied wooden churches across Belarus, which differ greatly from those in neighbouring countries. Russian churches were made of logs and

беларусь. belarus 2018

had a centric layout while, in southern Poland and the Carpathians, they have huge, steep roofs, which are tiled. Wooden churches in Belarus and in some other former Grand Duchy of Lithuania states, are lined vertically in wood. The counter-reformation was very strong at that time and the Baroque style was adopted with great enthusiasm. In the 18th century, a new version was de velop e d — name d Vi lna Baroque, as championed by architect Yan Glaubitz. The echo of this influence was noticeable in the construction of wooden churches with one or two steep towers, a gable facade, intricate, convex domes and thin iron crosses. Do you think a lot of people have learned about Belarus thanks to this building? I hope so, at least in the architectural environment. For example, last year, during the Open Day, many Brits visited the church as it’s the only wooden church in London. It seems to be very popular among Londoners. I still receive emails from the public asking permission to visit the church from time to time. The church is named after Belarus, so it helps to spread

knowledge about the country, as it was Belarusian architecture that inspired its construction. You’re a member of the Board of the Heritage Trust Network charity foundation in London — an organisation involved in cultural heritage. Are there any problems in this area in the UK? I’m one of the trustees of the foundation. My country has indeed done an excellent job in protecting its cultural heritage. My charity is a good example, generously supported by public funding. The law also protects our cultural heritage. It’s a criminal offense to make changes to buildings protected by the state. We preserve our heritage carefully, endeavouring to preserve the authenticity of our building materials. You once said that the centre of Minsk is a good candidate for inclusion on the UNESCO Cultural Heritage List. What do you think distinguishes its architecture? First of all, it’s an example of Soviet neo-classical revival: a city of the sun. It has several valuable constructivist masterpieces, such as the House of Government, designed by Iosif Langbard,

Joakim Boren

and the old Iosif Lavrov National Library building. Meanwhile, the Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre of Belarus, by architect Langbard, is an excellent example of combining constructivism and neoclassicism. It’s among my favourites. ‘Zviazda’ newspaper also addressed t h e Ass o c i ate Profe ss or of t h e Architecture of Residential and Public Buildings Department of the Belarusian National Technical University, Vitaly Arabey, asking for his commentary on the Belarusian church in London and the state of similar buildings in Belarus. He explains, “The architect of the Belarusian church in London has managed to achieve an excellent combination of national and modern motifs. The building is environmentally friendly, using the traditional Belarusian material of wood. It’s rather a modern trend, using renewable materials to construct buildings — one which the architect has fulfilled successfully. The church has a Baroque dome — or rather, a folk interpretation of Baroque. There’s no pomposity in this ‘chamber church’. The wood gives it a cosy and intimate atmosphere. Unfortunately, wooden churches in our country are less common. You won’t find anything like this one. Each has its

elics

Interesting facts The Belarusian church in London was nominated for the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture: the Mies van der Rohe Award 2019. This is the highest award in European architecture, granted every two years by the EU and the Mies van der Rohe Foundation, since 1988. For the first time, a building directly connected with Belarus has been nomi nated for this award. The Greek Catholic church was built in 2017 for the com munity of the Belarusian diaspora in the UK as a place of prayer, as well as a memorial to all victims of Chernobyl. The building has received critical acclaim both in the UK and internationally, being acknowledged best of 160 other new buildings, to win the London Architecture Festival in 2017. It was also nomi nated in two categories for ‘best building of the year’ at the World Architecture Festival, held from November 28th-30th, 2018. British architect Tszwai So, who designed the church, won an international competition for the design of a new pan-European memorial in Brussels this March. The memorial will be dedicated to all victims of totalitarianism in the twentieth century in Europe, and will be built on Jean Rey Square in Brussels, next to the European Parliament. This year, Tszwai So joined a project to restore Slonim’s 17th century syna gogue. own regional features — especially in composition and construction techniques. Tszwai So managed to use a technique typical of Belarusian architecture, but also conveyed the atmosphere of a Uniate church. Sadly, similar churches in Belarus have sometimes been restored using

modern techniques, so that their domes and silhouette and roofs have changed. Religious leaders often decide to ‘update’ old churches where they’re serving, to suit their own taste — especially where these churches are located in more remote locations. We have some modern churches built with Belarusian folk motifs, such as Minsk’s Sofia Slutskaya Church (by architect Nikolay Lukyanchik), and the Church of the Icon of Mother of God (by architect Alexander Trukhin, who was inspired by the handbrake drum). Nikolaevsky Church also boasts a truly ‘folk’ character and there are examples across the country. The Uniate feel is evident in the Vitebsk Region and there’s an interesting church in Brest. Alexander Trukhin was inspired by the church of Stary Sverzhen — built in Old Baroque style — to design a church in Minsk’s Loshitsa District, and the project was approved and blessed. However, for some reason, another architect was appointed and a standard modern church built instead.” By Nina Shcherbachevich

беларусь. belarus 2018

019 European Games

Anastasia Chernyavskaya:

‘We need people to know that badminton is a real sport’

n September, Minsk hosted the International Badmin ton Tournament — Belarus International — for the first time. With results counting towards the 2nd European Games, being held in Minsk in 2019, the event allowed competitors to view their ri vals. The Falcon Club Arena will be hosting some of the 2019 events, and has been praised by local and foreign badminton players. Our sportsmen celebrated two vic tories: Alesya Zaitseva took women’s bronze while Anastasia Chernyavs kaya took bronze in the mixed event, partnering Russia’s Andrey Klimen kov. Here, Nastya tells us about Belaru sian badminton: Anastasia, the international tour nament was held in Minsk for the first time. Did the organisers cope well?

беларусь. belarus 2018

Yes, not only Belarusian athletes but foreign guests were satisfied. Everything was held at a high level. The arena and hall were great — ensuring all necessary conditions for badminton; we felt very comfortable, as if playing at home. For an athlete, it’s always important to have access to the schedule, since you often play not just one match a day but perform in several categories. You might spend the whole day there. As for technical aspects, the arena needs a set ceiling height. The wind speed, air con ditioning, lighting, colour of the walls and much more needs to be taken into account. At the Falcon Club, everything was great in this respect. Speaking of the game, are you satisfied with your results? Jointly with Alesya Zaitseva, I would have liked to have performed better. We’ve played as a pair previously and are now preparing for the Europe

an Games. Unsurprisingly, we wanted to do well, but failed. I’m happy with my singles performance (I reached the 1/8 finals) but I could have done bet ter. Nerves or uncertainty affected me. However, I won bronze in the mixed pairs and was happy with that. Does badminton’s inclusion in the European Games help raise awareness of the sport? Of course, I want people to know that badminton is a real sport and that it’s part of the Olympic programme. This isn’t just a hobby for picnics but hard work. You have to work hard to see results in this spectacular game. I want people to respect our sport and train for it at a higher level. Is interest growing in badminton? Interest is slowly expanding. The recent tournament in Minsk saw those

2 interested in badminton in attendance: fans who play at the arena, with their parents, acquaintances and friends. Only a few ‘new’ people came, watch ing badminton for the first time. However, speaking more generally, we are seeing positive change in the rearing of athletes. The leadership has changed, bringing new impetus and re viving team spirit. The sport isn’t very popular in Belarus. Since it’s difficult to make a living from it, few of our talent ed athletes choose badminton. You visited Baku for the 1st European Games. Tell us about that tournament. Those were the largest competitions of my career: like the Olympic Games, uniting various sports. All met in one place, living in the Olympic village and sharing a single goal. Everything was amicable and organised. Will competition be strong in Minsk? I think that all the world ‘stars’ will come. In Baku, there were no rating points for participation, or for awards, but we’ll have these in Minsk. This as pect is very important to athletes since it affects their rating, influencing selec tion for the 2020 Olympics.

Alesya Zaitseva for the women’s doubles. Is it difficult to perform with a partner? Since we live in different cities, we seldom train jointly. In each category (doubles and singles) there are peculiar features, and technical and psychologi cal terms. I can’t say which I like best. Your parents are athletes: your mother was a USSR multiple badminton champion and your father was a basketball player. Have they influenced your career choice? In fact, they were against me playing sports! I’ve been dancing for a long time and only came to badminton when I was 12 — rather late. I had nothing to do one day and went to my mother’s train ing. I liked it so much that I decided to stay. Since I was physically ready (being fit from my dancing), I quickly began to achieve results and, two years later, received the title of master of sports. Your mother’s still your coach. Is it good to have sporting parents? It is difficult to say, because I have no other experience. My parents gave me advice until the age of 14, but then understood that I was better placed to make my own choices.

019 European Games

Your mother performed at the 1996 Olympics. There’s always certain pressure for children to ‘outperform’ their parents… Yes, my mother told me about the great atmosphere at the Olympics, shar ing her wonderful memories. I’d love to take part: not to outdo my mother but for myself. My father retired from his sports ca reer so that my mother’s ambition could take precedence. It didn’t bother me, as she always brought presents from abroad. It’s very important for a child [smiling]. You’re fond of sewing? Yes, I became interested at school. I attended various clubs. I love to cre ate something that didn’t exist before. I decided to try sewing and got involved. There’s more in my life than badminton. I sew blouses, knit sweaters and try to create outerwear. Some people don’t have the patience, but I’m good at it. I’m assiduous, spending a lot of time and gaining pleasure from it. My love of sewing is probably hereditary, as my relatives were good tailors. In addition, my mum’s sister — my aunt — sewed school uniforms for herself and my mother. By Darya Lobazhevich

What are your European Games goals? Of course, to win medals. We’ll do everything possible to rise to the oc casion. We’ve begun training, playing tournaments through the winter, but spring will be vital, since the European Championship is being held in April. It’ll be a rehearsal for the Games, since the same athletes will be attending, seeking selection points. Badminton players need to play regularly, to keep up their ratings. In addition to playing in the singles at the European Games, you’ll partner беларусь. belarus 2018

Mogilev sums up results of ‘Animaevka-2018’ Festival

21st International Festival of Animation, ‘Animaevka-2018’, concludes in Mogilev Almost three festival days flew by, entertaining children and adults with fa vourite cartoons. The contest programme was intensive and diverse, featuring ac knowledged masters and new talent, all competing for awards. Film-makers from thirty-one countries took part, wishing to claim the ‘big crystal pencil’. There were sixty-one entries in all, with the international jury headed by Soviet animation maestro Leonid Nosyrev, who created the legendary ‘Antoshka’. The top-11 included ‘Fall’ (France), ‘Five Minutes to the Sea’ (Russia), ‘Breach’ (the Netherlands), ‘Emptiness’ (Esto nia), ‘Mitin’s Love’ (Russia), ‘Lighthouse’ (France), ‘Bloeistraat 11’ (the Nether lands), ‘Box’ (France), ‘A Trip to Tel-Aviv’ (Switzerland) and ‘Wolf Cubs’ (Belarus). Meanwhile, ‘Mercury’, by Italian director Michele Bernardi, was named ‘animated cartoon of the year’, taking the Grand Prix. Among young animators, there were more than fifty entries, from five states. Pupils from Mogilev’s children’s Karan dash Studio received two awards: Veron ika Radionova’s ‘Legend of Mir Castle’ won ‘Most Educational Animated Film’, while Artem Mazko took first prize for ‘Best Belarusian Animated Film’ — for his ‘Werewolf ’. Both were created un der the guidance of teacher Anastasia Klochkova, who heads the studio. By Nelly Zigulya

беларусь. belarus 2018

he Vitebsk Regional Philhar monic saw forty-two video applications and, of those, twenty-seven ensembles from across Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Lithuania, Mongolia and other countries were selected to participate in the second round. Their number was then cut to twelve for the third round, held at the State Academic Chapel — the city’s leading concert venue. The international jury lamented that many modern pop groups try to be original but lose their individuality. However, the ‘Vitebsk Virtuosos’ bala laika octet — the only female group in

the finals — is innovative. Winning the diploma ‘For Preservation of Tra ditions’, the octet celebrates its 45th anniversary this year. Having won numerous competitions and festivals, the group regularly updates its reper toire with music written specifically for the balalaika, from chamber music and jazz compositions to folk arrange ments and original pieces. The troupe’s style is unique, earn ing it the title of the ‘cultural pearl of Vitebsk’. Its hard work and high level of professional training have become a guarantee of success. By Alexander Pukshansky

Anatoly Kleschuk

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