BELARUS #01/2011 by BELARUS Magazine

No.1 (928), 2011

BELARUS Беларусь. Belarus

Magazine for you

Politics, Economy, Culture

Amazing beauties of Motol pp. 38—39

NEW

DIMENSION 200 no.8 (911),

4 6 3 " #&-

Belarus Беларусь.

e nomy, Cultur Politics, Eco

Magazine

for you

SaSHeS SiLK Men’S WoVen By nS Were BeLaruSia ion HiT a True faSH During Ce an in fr of THe reign ; LuDoViC XV THere Were To TS Mp aT Te aLL faKe THeM pe. oVer euro nS CoLLeC Tio ga Be n in THe LaTe y 19TH CenTur

Made in Slutsk pp. 40 — 41

pp. 36 — 37

www.belarus-ma

Magazine for those Magazine for thosewho want to know who want to know more more Six circulations – in Belarusia German, French, Spani www.belarus-magazine.by

Feel free to subcribe for 'Belarus' magazine

Six circulations – in Belarusian, English,

YOU CAN SUBSCR

Contents

Беларусь.Belarus Monthly magazine No.1 (928), 2011 Published since 1930 State Registration Certificate of mass medium No.8 dated March 2nd, 2009, issued by the Ministry of Information of the Republic of Belarus

Space as economic category

Single umbrella of security for all Nuclear security is a vital aspect of

global policy, since Al Qaeda terrorists could acquire a nuclear bomb or certain states could choose to settle regional conflict by threatening nuclear attack

26 Land

Attractive outlines

untouched by urbanisation

Foreign hunters help regulate animal population in Belovezhskaya Pushcha while bringing in considerable revenue

According to laws of hospitality

Melodies from the past Zmicier Sas-

Formula of transit With Lithuania

joining the EU and Belarus’ attachment to the Customs Union (together with Russia and Kazakhstan), the two largest economic agglomerations have met

State programmes to raise country’s attractiveness to foreign tourists

nouski returns instruments and composers to national musical art

Intriguing project Nadia Léger’s life de-

serves to become the focus of a novel, being filled with talent, love and self-sacrifice. Her great granddaughter, Natalie Samoilova, has decided to write a book about her great grandmother with a different goal — to restore justice — not by a lust for literary fame but from a sense of what’s right

Labyrinth of creative acquaintances Walking through the halls of the National Art Museum of Belarus, we can penetrate deeply into the wonderful world of pictorial art, however remote in time

12 Time for ‘bear’ transactions Banking system can easily survive falling deposit rates

18 22

Competitive project Vitebsk’s new

enterprise could become flagship of pharmaceutical branch

Records of kindness Belarusian athletes take part in Give Children a Hand charity campaign, hosted by Minsk’s McDonald’s — a sponsor of the National Olympic Committee of Belarus

Maxim Sokhar: ‘Directorship has chosen me’

Founders: The Information Ministry of the Republic of Belarus “SB” newspaper editorial office Belvnesheconombank Editor: Viktor Kharkov Executive Secretary: Valentina Zhdanovich

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

Publisher: “SB” editorial office This magazine has been printed at “Belarusian House of Press” Publishing Office” UE. 79 Nezavisimosti Ave., Minsk, Belarus, 220013 Order No.193 Total circulation — 2032 copies (including 780 in English).

Write us to the address: 11 Kiselyov Str., Minsk, Belarus, 220029. Tel.: +375 (17) 290-62-24, 290-66-45. Tel./Fax: +375 (17) 290-68-31. www.belarus-magazine.by E-mail: mail@belarus-magazine.by Subscription index in Belpochta catalogue — 74977 For future foreign subscribers for ‘Belarus’ magazine, apply to ‘MK-Periodica’ agency. E-mail: info@periodicals.ru Telephone in Minsk: +375 (17) 227-09-10.

2011 беларусь.belarus

editor’s note

From year to year

t’s always interesting to begin something new, allured by intrigue and expectations. Some have worries about how the new year will unfold but we all harbour hopes and plans, wishing that these secret dreams will come true for each other. By the time this edition of our magazine is released, a whole month of the new year will have passed. Perhaps the future will seem clearer; some dreams may even have come to fruition. Life continues, with time always running ahead, developing events from one year to the next. Let’s look at events on a worldwide scale. 2010 was a landmark year for the economic integration of Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan. Last July, a common market of 170m people for our three countries has been formed. Commodities freely cross our borders, without control or customs clearance. The next stage of integration is the Single Economic Space, which formation should be completed in 2011. Launched in the past, our integration continues through 2011. In Space as Economic Category we ponder the benefits of SES membership for the business communities of Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan, looking especially at how working conditions will improve. By setting up a company in Belarus, national and foreign investors will receive access to a huge market of 170m — from Brest to Almaty and Vladivostok. Meanwhile, risks relating to business will be reduced, with the appearance of international legal guarantees. Integration processes go beyond trade, having a political component; much depends on state will, with nuclear security still at the forefront of

беларусь.belarus 2011

world policy. In this respect, the joint Belarusian-American statement of the December OSCE Summit in Astana is noteworthy. Belarus has agreed to eliminate its highly enriched uranium stockpiles, fulfilling its goal by the time of the next Nuclear Security Summit, in 2012 in South Korea. The USA supports this decision and plans to provide all

necessary technical and financial assistance to our country. The security guarantees of the three nuclear powers — Russia, the USA and the UK, fixed in the Budapest Memorandum of 1994 as a reciprocal step in reply to Belarus’ refusal to hold nuclear weapons — are of special importance for Belarus. In a package statement at the OSCE Summit, Minsk pledged to remove its uranium. The USA is supporting Belarus’ efforts to use nuclear power for peaceful purposes, as detailed in Single Umbrella of Security for All. Returning to economy matters, it’s long been known that Belarus has a reputation as a highly technological country. However, even the most optimistic forecasts failed to predict that state demand for IT specialists would be so high. Software products are being produced in large numbers at the Belarusian High-Tech Park, with progress set to continue this year. Exports are rising, with products successfully sold domestically. Nevertheless, qualified staff are badly needed. The Administration of the High-Tech Park of Belarus is trying to tempt young people to train in IT, with over 40 joint laboratories opening at the country’s

technical universities, with the participation of HTP resident companies. These are helping students to master the latest technologies, which aren’t present in the academic curriculum, while working on definite projects. In gaining employment after graduating from university, they can continue working on the particular projects in which they were involved while studying. Of course, being the largest and the most generous employer in the country’s IT sphere, the HTP has an advantage, skimming off the best staff. Not everyone is satisfied with this situation, although it has its logic. By working at the HTP, a specialist attracts dozens of times more investments and contemporary technologies than by working for any other firm or institution. Clearly, this direction should receive top priority, as we note in Priorities Determine Measures. Culture is always attractive, as we see in No Translation Required, which shows how travellers view studying the Belarusian language as prestigious. The most ‘international’ street in Minsk is Karl Marx Street, connecting various buildings of the Belarusian State University, which has recently enrolled many foreign students. The philological department is located in the middle, where languages from all corners of the planet can be heard. Many people arriving from abroad in search of knowledge can freely communicate in Belarusian, some even without an accent. Students from the neighbouring states of Russia and Poland, as well as those from the Czech Republic, Germany and China, come to learn the Belarusian language, which shows their reverence towards our country. Let’s also travel through the halls of the National Art Museum of Belarus, which boasts artworks to delight our souls. Read Labyrinths of Creative Acquaintances and tread the rich paths of Belarusian cultural heritage. BY Viktor Kharkov, magazine editor Беларусь. Belarus

Official Belarus’ Central Commission for Elections and National Referenda reports on results of elections for President of Republic of Belarus

n December 24th, 2010, the Central Commission for Elections and National Referenda — having studied the data collated by regional and Minsk city commissions — defined the following presidential election results. The total number of voters in the Republic of Belarus was 7,105,660, with 6,444,776 attending polling stations. In line with Part 3 of Article 79 of Belarus’ Election Code, the elections have been acknowledged to have taken place, since 6,441,031 people cast their ballot (90.65 percent of the total number of voters). According to Part 4 of Article 79 of Belarus’ Election Code, Alexander Lukashenko was elected President of the Republic of Belarus, receiving 5,130,557 votes — or 79.65 percent (chosen by more than half of eligible Belarusian voters). O t her candidates s aw t he fol lowing results: • Grigory Kostusev: 126,999 votes — or 1.97 percent of voters; • Alexei Mikhalevich: 65,748 votes — or 1.02 percent; • Vladimir Neklyaev: 114,581 votes — or 1.78 percent; • Yaroslav Romanchuk: 127,281 votes — or 1.98 percent; • Vitaly Rymashevsky: 70,515 votes — or 1.09 percent; • Andrei Sannikov: 156,419 votes — or 2.43 percent; • Nikolai Statkevich: 67,583 votes — or 1.05 percent; • Viktor Tereshchenko: 76,764 votes — or 1.19 percent; and • Dmitry Uss: 25,117 votes — or 0.39 percent. 416,925 Belarusians — or 6.47 percent of voters — supported none of the candidates. 62,542 (0.97 percent) of ballots were invalid.

Congratulations The President of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Medvedev, has congratulated Alexander Lukashenko on his re-election as the President of the Republic of Belarus. His letter of congratulation reads: ‘I wish you success and, to the brotherly Belarusian people, I wish peace and prosperity’.

***

The Chairman of the People’s Republic of China, Hu Jintao, on behalf of the Government of China, of the Chinese nation and of himself, has congratulated Alexander Lukashenko on winning the presidential elections, writing: ‘China and Belarus are good friends and partners. Our states have a very high level of political trust and strong mutual support in all key matters of common interest. Equal co-operation in trade, economics, science, technology, military, humanitarian and other spheres has been increasingly fruitful. We interact and cooperate closely on settling international and regional problems, with a view to protecting the common interests of our two states’. Hu Jintao appreciates Alexander Lukashenko’s considerable personal contribution toward the progress of Chinese-Belarusian relations, stressing: ‘China attaches great importance to relations with Belarus and is prepared to work closely, investing a great deal of effort into

supporting continuous progress of bilateral co-operation’.

***

The President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Hugo Chávez, and the President of Georgia, Mikhail Saakashvili, also sent their congratulations to the Belarusian President.

***

President Abdullah Gül of Turkey has congratulated Alexander Lukashenko on his re-election as the President of the Republic of Belarus, writing: ‘It is my sincere belief that friendly relations between our countries and people will continue to expand further’. Mr. Gül wishes Mr. Lukashenko good health and happinessandhopesforprosperityand well-being for the people of Belarus.

***

Alexander Lukashenko has been congratulated on winning the presidential elections by the Leader of the GreatAl-FatehRevolution,Muammar Gaddafi, as well as by the Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organisation and the President of the Palestinian National Authority — Mahmoud Abbas. Other heads ofstatealsosenttheir congratulations.

***

Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov has expressed his conviction that traditionally friendly relations between our countries and mutually beneficial co-operation will continue to expand and strengthen.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Belarus and world

Single umbrella of security for all

Nuclear security is a vital aspect of global policy, since Al Qaeda terrorists could acquire a nuclear bomb or certain states could choose to settle regional conflict by threatening nuclear attack. Global leaders are keen to promote nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation, with US President Barack Obama placing this issue on the international agenda. In this respect, the interests of Minsk and Washington coincide, as confirmed by the adoption of a joint Belarusian-American announcement, made at the OSCE Summit in Astana in December 2010. It forms the basis for further co-operation

e cret ar y of St ate Hillary Clinton and B e l a r u s’ Fore i g n M i n i s t e r, S e r g e i M a r t y n o v, h a v e confirmed in this breakthrough document that our two states adhere to a policy of nuclear security. Belarus has decided to liquidate its stocks of highly enriched uranium by the time of the next Nuclear Energy Summit (scheduled for 2012 in South Korea), to which Belarus is invited. The United States plans to render us all necessar y technical and financial assistance.

Safe and sound

The first Nuclear Energy Summit took place in the USA, in April 2010. ‘Nuclear terrorism is the greatest threat to international security’ reads the final statement of the Summit, signed by politicians from 50 states. Participants of the meeting supported the initiative of Mr. Obama, who initiated the idea of establishing a universal control system over nuclear materials in the coming four years. Washington diplomacy is focusing on several dozen states which possess nuclear materials. In December, Serbia and Ukraine sent their highly enriched uranium for disposal, in line with the American Summit’s decisions. Ukraine

беларусь.belarus 2011

has parted with 50kg — enough to make two nuclear bombs. The USA states that, at present, it has helped countries eliminate enough uranium to make 120 units of nuclear weapons. Belarus was not invited to the American Summit, as criticised by the Belarusian Foreign Ministry, which stated: ‘The Summit’s announced goals do not seem to match the composition of participants (chosen by Washington) for this event, not being universal. Moreover, some of those driving international efforts in this sphere have been omitted. In particular, Belarus won’t be present at the forthcoming event… In our view, true success in fighting global phenomena, such as terrorism (including nuclear), and in reducing the spread of nuclear materials, is only possible via joint efforts by global community members’. Commenting on this situation, Alexander Lukashenko said, “As far as I know, Russia has calmed America, saying that it would take uranium from Belarus. However, I must say that no one will take anything without our consent. We are ready to gather for negotiations. The issue is not rooted in money. We are a nation — a state. That which we own is ours. We do not blackmail anyone. We are not going to make dirty nuclear bombs. If we were involved in this, we would have already made one. We don’t need them. We should be treated with respect.”

Since last April, Washington administration has corrected the shortcomings in its approach; this has yielded fruit without delay — as confirmed by the Astana announcement.

Avoiding entanglement at Sosny

The Director General of the United Energy and Nuclear Research Institute Sosny (of Belarus’ National Academy of Sciences), Vyacheslav Kuvshinov, announced before the Belarus-US joint document was signed that ‘used’ nuclear fuel would be removed to Russia. He explained that this fuel has been accumulating in Belarus since Soviet times, from when his Institute was developing its mobile ‘Pamir’ nuclear reactor. For twenty years, Belarusian scientists failed to agree with their Russian

Belarus and world colleagues on the removal of this spent nuclear fuel. “Eventually, we agreed on removing it to Russia; the project is being implemented with the help from our American colleagues, with money allocated,” Mr. Kuvshinov said. 41kg of spent nuclear fuel from Sosny’s nuclear research facilities was sent to Russia’s Mayak plant on November 29th, 2010, as the Director of the State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom’s Communications Department, Sergey Novikov, has announced on bellona.ru portal. The official stressed that ‘no more transportation is expected from Belarus’ in 2010. In September, scientists began loading containers with this fuel, while the President’s decrees on its removal appeared on October 8th. In particular, Decree № 520 approves a draft agreement with Russia regarding the removal to its territory of ‘irradiated and fresh highly enriched nuclear fuel from research reactors’, substituted by low-enriched fuel. In turn, Decree № 521 envisages ‘conditions for the US G ove r n me nt’s

being kept in Belarus, Sosny’s leading research officer, Aliy Malykhin, said that — as the President announced in 1998 — its total volume stands at about 2 tonnes (of different levels of enrichment, used by scientists in experiments). “Our Institute has been operational for a long time, buying uranium for its reactors, mobile stations and other experiments,” noted Mr. Malykhin. Uranium accumulated from 1954 to 1987.

Letter of gratitude

In the USA, joint activity with Belarus is viewed as an achievement for Mr. Obama’s Administration in the field of nuclear non-proliferation. The Voice of America states: ‘This is an important step forward for Mr. Obama’s Administration. Since his appointment as President, Mr. Obama has stressed that, in the 21st century, control over nuclear weapons is fundamental to global security and peace.” White

Lukashenko for his leadership in this issue, while welcoming the decision of Belarus to remove highly enriched uranium from its territory. Mr. Nunn expressed his hope that the Belarusian President will continue to liaise in the field of non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and the destruction of weapons of mass annihilation. In turn, Mr. Lukashenko assured the American guests that, like the USA, Belarus is interested in ensuring regional security and nuclear non-proliferation. “We’ve contributed greatly to the building of a nuclear-free world, voluntarily avoiding ownership of an arsenal of nuclear weapons,” he noted. Minsk-Washington nuclear cooperation began in the first years of Belarus gaining independence. In the joint statement, Ms. Clinton acknowledged the historical decision of Belarus — regarding its refusal to harbour nuclear weapons (adopted in 1994) — as a significant contribution to nuclear disarmament. She confirmed guarantees for Belarus’ security, as fixed in the Budapest Memorandum on December 5th, 1994.

Guarantees without threat

rendering of technical assistance in removing and exchanging nuclear fuel’ — exempting all operations dealing with the removal and substitution of nuclear fuel from taxation. In line with the decree, technical assistance is granted by the US Government to support the removal of spent nuclear fuel from Sosny Institute to Russia, while exchanging mobile ‘Pamir630D’ nuclear power station’s fresh nuclear fuel for nuclear fuel aimed at ‘Giatsint’ critical stand. Recently, answering to journalists’ questions about how much uranium is

House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs has told America’s mass media that ‘this decision is a significant step forward for President Obama’s Administration in the field of ensuring nuclear security all over the world’. Interestingly, representatives of the US’ leading analytical centres visited Minsk in December, visiting the Sosny Institute. Among them were several specialists in nuclear security and, on meeting the President, gave him a letter from the former Senator, Sam Nunn, known for his battle to see a nuclearfree world. Mr. Nunn thanked Mr.

Belarus is known to hold a major legacy from the former USSR’s nuclear heritage and joined the Nuclear NonProliferation Treaty as a non-nuclear state — without preliminary conditions or reservations. By 1996, it had removed all nuclear weapons from its territory. “It’s worth mentioning that our country’s participation in nuclear disarmament is rooted not only in its number of removed warheads — although this cost much effort and expense, during the uneasy economic times of the early 1990s. After the Cold War ended, this became perhaps the first real example of how to make our world better and safer,” Belarus’ Foreign Minister, Sergei Martynov, has told journalists. For Belarus, obligations regarding guarantees of security provided by the three nuclear states — Russia, the USA

2011 беларусь.belarus

Belarus and world and the UK (as fixed in the Budapest Memorandum) — are of major significance, inspiring Belarus’ rejection of nuclear weapons. These three states have pledged to refrain from using force, threat of force, or economic sanctions against our country. “I won’t hide that we are concerned for the strict fulfilment of these obligations and, of course, nonadmission of where these are broken: in 2008, US companies imposed economic sanctions on Belarusian companies,” Mr. Martynov asserts. In the package statement made at the OSCE Summit, Minsk pledged to remove its uranium, while the USA, in turn, announced its support for Belarus’ efforts in using nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. “We highly appreciate this step from the USA,” said Mr. Lukashenko. Belarus has announced its intention to diversify its energ y provision via the construction of its own nuclear power station, since dependence on a single source is a security risk. The USA’s Secretary of States has voiced the USA’s support for this idea, encouraging Belarus to use a tender system to ensure a competitive process of design and construction. A safe and reliable station fully complying with IAEA norms is vital. The USA does not hide the fact that it supports the quick implementation of this commercial project. Fruitful relations in the nuclear sphere are clearly developing between Washington and Minsk, with future liaisons looking promising. The recent announcement on the matter was made after the presidential elections in Belarus. On December 21st, the Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs, Philip Crowley, expressed his hope that the agreement to dispose of highly enriched uranium stocks will be fulfilled. “It’s important for the international community, including other states in the region,” he said, adding, “We’d like to hope that this collaboration will continue.” By Igor Kolchenko

беларусь.belarus 2011

“Golden” future Considerable growth in gold and currency reserves is capable of raising the country’s credit rating

elarus’ gold and currency reserves have risen 4.5-fold over last five years. According to data as of the end of 2010, the country’s gold and currency reserves have reachedahistoricalrecordof$6.78bn by national calculations ($5.7bn using the IMF method). Within five years, these should reach $12bn, enabling Belarus to achieve a world standard, with our gold and currency reserves equalling at least three months of our imports in value. The figure is vital to the country’s security. In 2006, President Lukashenko was photographed next to pyramids of gold bullions (reaching half of human height) at the National Bank’s central depositary. In December 2010, Alexander Lukashenko and Piotr Prokopovich, the Chairman of the National Bank’s Board, inspected the site again. The deposits of gold almost reached the ceiling. In five years’ time, a new room will surely be needed. Mr. Prokop ov i ch note d t hat Belarus is ranked 46th worldwide and 3rd among the CIS states (after Russia and Kazakhstan) in terms of its gold reserves — 30.6 tonnes. Precious metals account for 25 percent of our basket of reserves, with the remaining assets placed in eight foreign currencies in first-rate American and European banks. According to the Head of the National Bank of Belarus, the country should achieve a positive balance of foreign trade in

coming years (to date, this figure has been chronically negative). Mr. Prokopovich believes that agreements relating to the formation of the Single Economic Space, signed by Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan, should also contribute to this. The most vital task for the next five years will be making the Belarusian rouble a freely convertible currency — a goal which Mr. Prokopovich believes can be fulfilled. Mr. Lukashenko noted that, if the banking system reaches its targets, ‘we’ll forget talks about problems’. According to the Belarusian President, the fulfilment of ambitious plans is within our grasp, since the Belarusian economy demonstrated good results even during the crisis. During the meeting at the National B an k, Mr. Lu kashen ko fo c us e d attention on stability being reached in Belarus, noting that it enables us to hope ‘that major financial players could place reserves in our country’. “People will bring their money to our country and keep it here while opening companies and accounts,” explained the President. “Money likes silence. As soon as disputes begin within the state, money starts disappearing. We’ve long been valued for our ability to preserve calm; this is essential and, if it continues, will ensure good prospects. We’re able to do this,” Mr. Lukashenko asserted. By Vitaly Vasiliev

Panorama

Neighbourly appeal

 Amidst ice and water

Lithuanian businessmen note that it’s easier to work in Belarus than in Lithuania

Belarusian polar researchers study bio-diversity at Progress Antarctic Station

ithuania’s Vilniaus Diena newspaper has noted the activation of Lithuanian business in Belarus. Lithuanians acknowledge that the business atmosphere in Belarus has considerably improved over the last two years. They view this as being directly connected with an evident ‘warming’ of political relations between our two states — as confirmed by ambitious joint projects and hundreds of millions of US dollar investments.

 In-depth research is of vital importance Belgorkhimprom JSC conducts preliminary assessment of phosphate rock deposits at Los Monos and La Linda sections of Venezuelan Navai field

According to Lithuania’s Foreign Ministry, about 300 companies using Lithuanian money are registered in Belarus. The Lithuanian Embassy to Belarus receives applications from two or three Lithuanian businessmen daily. The newspaper reads: ‘Belarus has been doing a great deal to attract investments: the central authority has done everything possible to remove bureaucratic barriers to businessmen’. Rimantas Purtulis, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Stadium (a joint Lithuanian-Belarusian company) notes, “Belarus was using old, Soviet-style construction standards some two or three years ago. Today, a presidential decree is operational which allows investors to implement their projects if they meet Western European construction standards.” According to Regimantas Jablonskis, Deputy Director of the Department for Foreign Affairs of the Foreign Ministry of Lithuania, trade statistics show the true importance of Belarus to Lithuania. In H1 2010, Lithuanian exports to Belarus reached LTL1.255bn (up almost 40 percent on the same period of 2009). Belarus accounts for over 5 percent of total Lithuanian exports.

elgorkhimprom is implementing its first project in Venezuela, working with the Venezuelan Pequiven Company since April 2007. In line with its contract, the B elarusian company is providing technical support, analysis and assessment of phosphate reserves in the Los Monos and La Linda s e c t i on s of Nav ai f i e l d i n Venezuela. Scientific-methodic a l and te chnic a l mainten a n c e i s b e i n g c on du c t e d while Belgorkhimprom plans to elab orate the technicaleconomic feasibility of developing Venezuelan phosphate rock deposits — for phosphorus compounds and fer tilisers. Venezuelan phosphates are of great importance to Belarus, with Gomel’s Chemical Plant, specialising in manufacturing highly-efficient complex fertilisers, hoping to set up a joint venture in Venezuela to produce phosphorus acid or phosphorus fertilisers.

elarus’ National Centre for Polar Research has announced that Belarusian polar specialists are to continue exploring the Antarctic as part of the Russian Antarctic expedition. They are now heading for the Progress Polar Station, aboard the Academic Fedorov, to conduct new scientific investigations. Alexey Gaidashev and Yuri Giginyak set off for the Antarctic from Belarus last December, aiming to study the biological diversity of this ice continent. At the Progress Station, they will monitor Antarctic animals: their habits and relation with the environment. Simultaneously, they’ll continue studying the Antarctic waters and ice, atmospheric composition and the local ozone layer. Equipment specially developed by Belarusian scientists is to be used for these seasonal experiments — able to work at low temperatures.

The specialists are to appraise the condition of the equipment and life support systems being used at the Vechernyaya Mountain Station (where Belarusian polar expeditions are based). The National Centre for Polar Research tells us that ‘work is already done, with results to be announced later’. The men will return from the Antarctic in late February.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Integration

Space as economic category 2010 was a landmark year for the economic integration of Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan. Last July, a single Customs Code came into force for the three countries, forming a common market of 170m people, with commodities freely crossing our borders, without control or customs clearance

he next stage of integration is the Single Economic Space, which formation should be completed in 2011. The SES envisages free movement of goods, services, capital and labour, in addition to a shared macroeconomic policy. In December, Alexander Lukashenko, Dmitry Medvedev and Nursultan Nazarbayev signed documents on the SES formation, in Moscow. “We’re stating the creation of a single economic space,” noted Mr. Lukashenko at a press conference. “We’ve ensured free competition for our enterprises in Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus.” Last December, 18 documents relating to the SES formation were ratified by the Belarusian Parliament. The package included agreements dealing with the migration of labour, principles of currency policy, unified principles and rules of competition, as well as those relating to trade and investments, and an agreed macroeconomic policy. In December, the President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, signed a ratified document making Minsk the first among its partners to have completed interstate procedures relating to the formation of the Single Economic Space.

From Lisbon to Vladivostok

The European Coal and Steel Community took six years to become the European Economic Community and another 35 to become the European Union. Comparatively, the SES creation by Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan is progressing at a record pace. Unlike the

беларусь.belarus 2011

EU, the SES doesn’t envisage political union. The supra-national bodies of the Single Economic Space (particularly the Inter-state Commission on Trade and Tariffs) will be implementing a single competitive policy and single tariff policy on natural monopolies, as well as other economic policies. SES participants will remain politically sovereign states, with each pursuing its own domestic and foreign policy. The project is exclusively aimed at economic integration. What benefits will the business communities of Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan receive from the SES? Experts point out that working conditions will improve, with existing tariff and non-tariff barriers being eliminated. By setting up a company in Belarus, national or foreign investors receive access to a huge market of 170m — from Brest to Almaty and Vladivostok. Risks relating to business are reduced, due to the appearance of international legal guarantees, with legislation governing the enlargement of business structures, as well as mergers and acquisitions. Such legislation has drawn on the integration experience of the European Union, as well as the norms and rules of the World Trade Organisation, allowing the future opportunity of expanding the union to include other states (as fixed in the Declaration on the Single Economic Space Formation, adopted in December). Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Armenia and Ukraine have already expressed interest in participating in the Single Economic Space. “We’re stretching a hand of cooperation to our closest neighbours and friends, creating conditions for them to modernise their economies and improve

Trade without excessive limits facilitates economic integration

the quality of life of their people,” Dmitry Medvedev has announced, explaining the ideology of the SES. The presidents of Belarus and Russia also stress the possibility of integrating the SES with the EU. Although economic alliance from Lisbon to Vladivostok now seems a distant prospect, who knows what may happen?

Without exemptions or restrictions

Belarus is a consistent supporter of integration within the post-Soviet space. The SES could become the first truly successful integration project. Some call this initiative the last attempt of the

Integration former USSR republics to demonstrate real integration. In one word, much is on the line. Minsk believes that that success of the Single Economic Space depends on how integrated it becomes in practice. According to Belarus, all exemptions and restrictions should be eliminated. Prices and conditions for energy supplies are especially vital. From January 1st, 2010,

the Russian oil processed at Belarusian oil refineries is made into diesel fuel, petrols, oil-fuel and oils. Ready-made oil products are exported beyond the borders of the Customs Union. Since duties on oil products are lower than those for crude oil, from 2011, Belarus will save up to $4bn annually, according to experts.

From particulars to general rules

Russia began to exempt Belarus from export duties on oil supplied for processing and further export abroad. Official Minsk points out that duties inside the operating Customs Union contradict the logic of the association. In December, Alexander Lukashenko and Dmitry Medvedev found a solution to the oil issue. From January 1st, 2011, Russian oil will be supplied to Belarus duty free. Meanwhile, Belarus has pledged to transfer to the Russian budget 100 percent of export duties for oil and oil products supplied to third countries. Such a scheme meets the idea of the Single Economic Space and is simultaneously beneficial for Minsk. Most of

As soon as the SES becomes operational, conditions for natural gas supplies should also be unified. In 2011, Gazprom gas supplies to Belarus will stand at $230 per 1,000 cubic metres. Valery Golubev, Deputy Chairman of Gazprom’s Management Committee, notes that ‘since Belarus has joined the single Customs Union and the Single Economic Space, contracts for 2012 will be signed relying on other principles’. According to him, the average European price will be viewed from this basic price, with customs duties and transit costs reduced from there. If this formula had been applied in 2011, gas prices for Belarus would have been $30 cheaper. Minsk has underlined many times that the major issue isn’t the price itself, but the principle of unified price formation in Belarus and Russia. Gas may be cheap or expensive but should be equally cheap or equally expensive for both Belarusian and Russian enterprises. Minsk is keen to see Russia move quickly to ‘equal-profitability’ prices for external and domestic consumers. For example, taking into account that gas is a dominating element in the cost of creating electricity or cement, non-observation of the principle of ‘equal profitability’ deliberately creates unequal conditions for Belarusian and Russian companies. This has hampered economic integration within the Union State of Belarus and Russia. Minsk hopes that the fundamental gas issue will be successfully resolved within the SES. Arguments on common profit should outweigh narrow corporate interests.

Actual potential of cooperation CSTO advocates peacekeeping potential

he CSTO has potential to be used within UN operations, maintaining peace and security, noted Zoya Kolontai, the Deputy Permanent Representative of Belarus to the UN, speaking at the 65th session of the UN General Assembly, on behalf of CSTO member states. The CSTO has possessed observer status at the UN General Ass e mbly s i n c e 2 0 0 4 , w it h a Joint Declaration on UN/CSTO Secretariat Co-operation signed in March 2010, giving new impetus to development. The B elarusian representative underlined that the CSTO has proven its potential to interact with the UN, based on principles of partnership and complementary efforts. “Taking into account the increasing importance of new challenges, as well as the UN’s eagerness to develop comprehensive co-operation with regional organisations, we believe that the adoption of the General Assembly Resolution on collaboration between the UN and CSTO is vital,” asserted Ms. Kolontai. She spoke on behalf of Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

By Vitaly Volyanyuk

2011 беларусь.belarus

Customsreforms

Formula of transit With Lithuania joining the EU and Belarus’ attachment to the Customs Union (together with Russia and Kazakhstan), the two largest economic agglomerations have met. On the one hand, this simplifies their co-operation; intermediate borders have disappeared. This has already led to transit growing five fold between Belarus and Lithuania in the past five years. In 2010 alone, so far, imports into Belarus have risen almost 25 percent; transit goods are up 24 percent (against the same period of 2009), while turnover between Lithuania and Belarus has risen by about one third. Goods and travellers can cross the border quickly and with fewer formalities

his is how Benyakoni border checkpoint operates now. It reopened in late 2010 on the BelarusianLithuania border, after major reconstruction (conducted with state money). Its throughput capacity has increased 2.5fold, servicing up to 1,000 trucks and passenger cars daily. Its old buildings have been replaced with contemporary constructions and its new control equipment meets all necessary requirements. Registration of cargo and checking of transport and passports is conducted with the use of modern electronic and computer systems. As a result, it only takes a few minutes for law abiding citizens to cross the border. Meanwhile, it takes lorries about an hour. The preliminary e-declaration of cargo, launched in early 2011

the theatre and whether officers with large families have suitable accommodation. Mr. Rachkovsky is confident that, alongside specific knowledge and skills, the morale and professionalism of border guards depends on their personal contentment. That ‘border troops’ are now called the ‘border service’ is no mere play on words. The reformation of Belarus’ border service has been conducted with active technical assistance from the EU and the OSCE. Its new co-operative programme envisages the allocation of 360,500 euros for these purposes (among other aid). Throughout Belarus’ border regions, various training sessions and seminars have been held, with specialists from Poland and Lithuania taking part. To find out more about the psychological state of officers at border checkpoints, an anonymous poll was undertaken. Belarusian

Customs check-point “Kozlovichy”

Belta

along the border of Belarus and the European Union, has made this possible. Clearly, core transformations have occurred along Belarus’ borders in these post-Soviet years. It’s not just the buildings and equipment that are new; changes to the psychology of those serving at the border are evident. The Chairman of Belarus’ State Border Committee, Igor Rachkovsky, explains that their goals include comfortable passage for lawobedient citizens (rejecting the stereotype that anyone leaving the USSR must be a potential traitor and those entering must be a spy). Mr. Rachkovsky sets the example, being open and friendly. A graduate of three universities, he prefers a stylish suit to a general’s uniform and has five children. He orders staff to smile on checking documents. He’s also interested in how often student-border guards go to

беларусь.belarus 2011

Customsreforms border guards also visited Poland to see Several dozen buildings have been erected, the work of their colleagues and a risk servicing up to 5,000 cargo and passenger analysis system is being set up as part cars and buses daily; 70 percent of these of the project. This should help correct travel on to Russia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine decisions be made in emergency situ- and China. Are these figures high? The ations. Europe has accumulated huge Head of Grodno’s Regional Customs, experience in this field, while Finland Yuri Senko, takes us into a light, spacious has taken up patronage of Belarus, helping adapt the system to our local conditions. Speaking about new buildings constructed recently on t h e we s t e r n border of Belarus, we can say that they are equipped with the most modern equipment and meet the terms of the Head of Grodno’s Regional Customs Yuri Senko (left) special state programme. The meeting a Russian journalist

The international economic crisis has barely

altered the volume of transit through our customs. Every year, cargo shipment rises by 20 percent Belarusian part of the western border is 2,190km long, featuring 24 car checkpoints. Nine (on the border with Poland, Lithuania and Ukraine) have already been drastically modernised, using millions of dollars allocated by Belarus itself, the Belarus-Russia Union State and the EU. As a result, throughput capacity has risen from 7,500 passenger cars, trucks and buses to over 20,000 daily. In addition, several programmes on border infrastructure development have been realised, with funds allocated to complete the construction and equipment of Minsk Central Customs’ Information-Calculation Centre and the creation of a single information network. This has further enhanced the efficiency of customs officers. Let’s shift from the BelarusianLithuanian side of the border to the Belarusian-Polish. Bruzgi checkpoint is the largest of those which have undergone reconstruction. Since 1997, over $11.6m has been invested into the site, with the complex expanded from 7 to 28 hectares.

building, where trucks pass through the clearance procedure without hurry or crowds. “The international economic crisis has barely altered the volume of transit through our customs,” he notes. “Every year, cargo shipment rises by 20 percent; in the first nine months of 2010, so many trucks passed through Bruzgi that they could have been placed end to end from Grodno to Moscow three and a half times. To register documents, each driver uses the one-stop-shop principle, with minimal time spent waiting. Most documents are submitted beforehand, in e-form.” Reconstruction of Bruzgi, like neighbouring Berestovitsa, has been very profitable for Belarus, Russia and the EU. The picture looks rosy but customs’ work is, naturally, far from complacent. Its main function is to collect duties for the state budget from those who should pay, by law. Additionally, it prevents smuggling — including of dangerous weap ons and dr ugs. B elar usian customs officers often have their resolu-

tion tested since, every year, about 500 drug traffickers are detected. Rapiskan — a huge x-ray device for trucks — helps find smugglers. If anything seems suspicious to the operator, a thorough search is organised separately. Smaller devices are also on hand, to allow personal searches. Equipment enables officers to see who has touched particular illegal substances. The State Customs Committee’s electronic communication system allows everything to remain under strict control. The number of those wishing to smuggle expensive goods (pretending that they have a cheaper value) has dropped several times and Belarusian customs now conducts seven times fewer checks than before. Only one truck in 75 is inspected (selected by a computer programme which analyses the risk of smuggling) but detection rates are much higher. “Customs officers are not allowed to interfere with the computer’s work,” explains the Chairman of the State Customs Committee of Belarus, Alexander Shpilevsky, who advocates the prompt introduction of European standards. “We’re working hard to eliminate personal contact between drivers and staff. We’ll be ready to ensure all control functions once they are moved to the border of the Customs Union and the EU (expected in mid-2011).” Belarus independently finances the provision and functioning of its border infrastructure. Moreover, a state programme for its further modernisation has been developed. In 2011, the border checkpoint at Domachevo, for cars, is to be reconstructed, with a new site built on the border with Poland at the Kozlovichy-2 cargo terminal. From 2011 — 2015, seven new checkpoints are to be built on the border with the EU and Ukraine, while old sites are to be reconstructed. Specialists say that, after their launch, daily throughput capacity on the western Belarusian border should grow from the present 21,000 cars and buses to 27,900, with queues becoming a thing of the past. By Vladimir Yakovlev

2011 беларусь.belarus

Banks

Time for ‘bear’ transactions

Banking system can easily survive falling deposit rates

any of us would wish to have a billion in our savings account: in Belarusian roubles if not US dollars! The sum is grand for most family budgets but means little to the country’s financial and banking system. The withdrawal of Br57bn a day from bank accounts has no impact, since deposits are still growing. In September, these rose by over 2 percent. Future savings volumes will depend not on people’s confidence in the state alone but on banks’ marketing policy. After last year’s impressive growth in deposit rates, it’s clear that they’ll surely need to be reduced. Those financial institutions which better explain the need for reducing interest rates on savings will, no doubt, win clients.

No wolf at the door

Most spheres of the economy develop in waves, with periods of unprecedented growth followed by falls, before rising once more. In recent years, citizens’ deposits into the banking system have grown steadily. The global financial crisis influenced the structure of deposits but not the volume. Banks raised interest rates to encourage saving, transforming such accounts into a source of earning. At certain times, deposit rates were at least 3 or more times greater than the official inflation level, so their popularity is hardly surprising. Economic uncertainty usually inspires people to save more. In the

беларусь.belarus 2011

1990s, when times were hard, people would save up to 6-8 percent of their earnings. When the situation improved, Belarusians shifted towards consumption. The crisis again pushed people to reconsider their attitude to personal savings and, in 2009 and 2010, people were setting aside a greater proportion of their earnings. It seems that the crisis is over, although subconscious fear remains. This is reflected in pessimistic views regarding inflation and potential devaluation. Two years spent being thrifty have left their mark, with people feeling

Lately, the customer deposit flow has been continuously increasing. The world financial crisis introduced certain changes in the deposit structure however not affecting the volume indices cautious about spending money. It’s quite possible that shops will attract more spending, with Banks, retailers and producers competing for our funds; it’s a normal situation. However, does this mean that the banking sector could face serious problems? Stress tests conducted by the National Bank upon last year’s figures

show that the system can cope with up to ten percent of individuals’ and firms’ savings being withdrawn (individual deposits comprise about half of the banking sector’s ‘inner injections’). In other words, about 4 trillion Belarusian roubles would need to be withdrawn from deposit accounts and there are no signs that such a situation is likely. Some banks may be struggling for their place in the sun but the system is strong overall.

Not treasure alone….

Belarusians tend to treat money as they did in Soviet days, when banks were acknowledged as the best means of saving: either glass banks (for cash) or commercial bank institutions (for deposits). Other paths are available, although some products are yet to gain a real foothold on the domestic market. R e c e n t l y, b a n k s h a v e b e e n attracting money via the issue of bonds, while the development of a system of non-cash payments boasts huge potential in raising the resource base. At present, over Br2 trillion is kept in Belarusians’ card accounts (most employed people now have such an account and use them to hold about 10 percent of their deposits). Accumulative insurance is another underdeveloped sphere in Belarus, although the provision of additional pensions is gaining momentum — in quantity and quality. Worldwide, such plans account for up to 50 percent of

Banks

Offset upon partners’ consent Priorbank signs agreement on opening corresponding account in yuans with Industrial and Commercial Bank of China

he agreement will help economic agents of our two countries settle payments in their national currencies. In recent years, trade and economic co-operation between China and Belarus has grown. In this respect, Priorbank’s correspondent account in yuans will boost interaction between Belarusian and Chinese companies, while reducing the number of procedures relating to mutual payments. The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China is among the leaders on the Chinese banking market in terms of volume of international payment transactions. China is one of the most important

Depositors keep watch over the dynamics of growth in customer deposits

the financial system’s resources. In line with Belarusian legislation, restrictions exist regarding the placement of accumulated premiums by insurers. The lion’s share is kept in banking accounts. No doubt, certain reserves exist to replenish this ‘moneybox’.

How to encourage more saving…and borrowing

Mo s t re p re s e nt at i v e s o f t h e banking sector face another problem: fewer people now wish to take out loans, at least under existing rates. Meanwhile, most depositors are dissatisfied with reduced interest rates on their deposits. In protest, they are ‘shifting’ to foreign currency savings. This strategy is also inspired by concerns over the exchange rate. Of course, our banks can buy and sell

dollars, euros and Russian roubles on the interbank market but can only give loans to the population in Belarusian roubles. The financial sector is witnessing a complicated situation, with rates failing to satisfy the expectations of savers or borrowers. Just two years ago, savings rates rose rapidly, creating ‘false’ expectations in the public; now, banks are reaping the results. Each branch of industry experienced a critical period last year but financiers continued to enjoy high profits. Now, it’s time for bankers to feel the crisis. They will only be able to attract depositors by offering higher rates of interest. To date, most savings accounts are offering similar rates and periods of placement.

foreign trading partners of Belarus. According to our National Statistical Committee, from January-October 2010, Belarus increased its exports to China over 2.6-fold, to reach $381.7m.

By Vladimir Veremeev

2011 беларусь.belarus

Paymenttechnologies

espite efforts by the state and banks, Belarusians still prefer to shop with cash. Several reasons may be behind the unpopularity of plastic banking cards, although our citizens’ conservatism is the major cause.

buyers receive a refund of 2 percent on the 16 percent VAT; in Uruguay, discounts of up to 9 percent are offered, on 23 percent

Customers keen on bonuses Additional services and privileges to make trade and service sphere even more attractive

беларусь.belarus 2011

VAT. In Mexico, a popular lottery has been launched — El Boletazo — to inspire card payments: each card use, for even A priori, cards are much more convenient for payment the smallest item, enters the customer into the weekly lotto. Our country has chosen a similar All these programmes are similar to route in stimulating retail outlets to accept that successfully realised by South Korea non-cash payments, although with the after the economic crisis of the late 1990s. threshold for sales volumes being much Citizens were fearful of using non-cash higher than in South Korea. Several years payments, so the government introduced ago, the Council of Ministers defined a policy to encourage use of plastic cards. that retail outlets must install terminals if It offered easy access to bank accounts, their annual turnover reached $100,000. with savings of up to $4,000 allowed In 2007, banking commissions on card to be kept tax free. This contributed payments were lowered from 2.5 percent greatly to cash being removed from to 0.3-0.5 (to equal commissions paid on the ‘grey’ economy. Meanwhile, retail cash collection). Specialists believe the outlets came under pressure, with those necessary effect will only be achieved if not accepting cards subject to greater it costs shops at least 20-30 percent more taxation. The accepting of plastic cards to process cash transactions than card became obligatory for all companies and payments. trading organisations with annual sales Bankers see non-cash payments volumes of over $18,000. and growth in sales as links in a single Alexander Ruzhechka

However, the Regional Manager for the VISA international payment system in Belarus, Igor Kovalev, notes that progress is evident. “Over the past year, use of our cards in the retail sector has risen by almost 50 percent,” he says, adding, “Belarusians have already realised that a card is a convenient means of payment. We are now trying to encourage people to use their cards rather than cash.” Not everything is going smoothly in this respect though. Although many people own cards, they tend not to use them; customers may only use a card once against every fifth or sixth cash transaction. Around the globe, others have faced the same dilemma of encouraging card use, with developing countries currently striving to make the change: the USA and Western Europe have long since chosen cards over cash. For example, in Argentina, customers using credit or debit cards receive a refund of 3 or 5 percent on their 21 percent VAT payment (respectively). In Columbia,

Paymenttechnologies chain, since non-cash payments offer a bank cards issued jointly with another real competitive advantage to shops of company. “Co-branded bank cards are all kinds. “It’s been proven that sellers profitable for the bank and its partnerusing POS-terminals boost turnover, in company. They raise the volume of comparison to their rivals using cash,” cards issued, expanding the number of explains the Deputy Chairman of the customers. Meanwhile, BelSwissBank’s Board, Vitaly Ryabtsev. the partner“A large number of serious trading outlets already offer non-cash payment to customers.” Companies already using POSterminals are also taking action to stimulate sales, since installing the necessary card-reading equipment is an expensive investment. Vitaly Laptenok, w ho he a d s t he ‘Finance.tut.by’ project, says that In Belarus, 24 banks (out of 31 operating popularising nonc a s h p ay m e nt s on the market) have already issued cards. should contribute As of early October 2010, about 9m bank t o c o - b r a n d e d cards were circulating in the country banking products:

Popular resource Three new drinking water bottling plants to be constructed in Belarus by 2013

he new enterprises will be located in Minsk region. “We’ll have three new factories bottling drinking water in 2012: in 2013, at the latest,” stresses Vladimir Tsalko, Minister for Natural Resources and Environmental Protection. “These will be built using Austrian, German, Dutch and Czech capital.” Around 70 percent of the water produced will be exported. According to Mr. Tsalko, investors arriving in Belarus are interested in drinking water manufacture, being particularly keen to work in Belarus’ centre — in Minsk region. “This is the most attractive market for them, since the necessary labour force is available,” he explains. He hopes that, in future, foreign companies will also head for other regions of the country. Mr. Tsalko asserts that water is one of Belarus’ major treasures, which should be used

company boosts sales. Customers usually benefit by receiving preferential terms from the partner-company,” explains the specialist. Apart from those operating in the West, most of our closest neighbours’ banks have their own lists of partnercompanies: trading networks, technical service stations, taxi services and others offering products and services at a discount. Consumers receive a discount of up to 20 percent on goods and services, with the use of bank cards bringing privileges and bonuses. Belarusian banks have only recently begun studying a similar system of partnerships with non-banking organisations. It’s clear that such ‘loyalty’ cards bring benefits to customers, so their popularity should grow. Also, as various banks compete for clients, the deals offered on such plastic cards should improve.

correctly. The issue is becoming more acute against the background of world forecasts regarding water deficits in many countries. A water strategy has been developed in Belarus, determining the best way to use water resources for the next twenty years. In total, around 200 fresh groundwater deposits have been developed in the republic. “We extract around 900,000 cubic metres of water and have the ability to raise this to 20m,” asserts the Minister, underlining that separate wells require minimum costs, since water in them meets all international standards; only bottling is needed. Geologists have determined that over 80 sites in Belarus are suitable for the construction of plants to extract and bottle fresh groundwater. Last year, the Geology Department prepared and sent a special reference book to potential investors, presenting complete information on the organisation of joint ventures to bottle drinking water in Belarus. It also tackled how to stimulate production and sell produce, as well as the peculiarities of exporting drinking water. In 2009, Belarus exported $3m of mineral water, with supplies delivered to Russia, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Azerbaijan and Canada. However, over 90 percent is still sold domestically.

2011 беларусь.belarus

IT key groups

ven in the crisis year of 2009, software production growth at the High-Tech Park reached 152 percent, with approximately the same expected for 2010. Exports are actively increasing, while the domestic market is also strong. Accordingly, the High-Tech Park’s administration and its 88 company-residents (currently employing about 8,500 programmers and engineers) are concerned about finding adequately trained personnel.

companies also need staff. This is why we are planning to increase the enrolment of students for corresponding specialities.” The HTP administration —with support from its company-residents — is trying to attract even those with basic technical education. To succeed on this path, over 40 laboratories have been launched jointly with company-residents at technical universities countrywide. Students work on real projects, while mastering technologies beyond their usual curriculum. On starting work after

Priority determines measures Even the most optimistic prognoses failed to guess that Belarus would so badly need IT specialists Since early 2010, about 800 new jobs have been created at the Park but almost 500 specialist positions remain vacant. There is a dearth of applicants, despite the average monthly salary reaching $1,150. The establishment has already employed all those whose qualifications more or less suit its needs and programmers from neighbouring countries, including Russia, have begun heading to Mink’s ‘Silicon Valley’. The situation was quite different four or five years ago. “At present, sadly, the needs of our company-residents for specialists exceed the number of such graduates from the country’s higher education system,” explains the Deputy Director of the HTP Administration, Alexander Martinkevich. “The Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radioelectronics has just completed its preliminary distribution of alumni. A quarter are set to join the HTP but we are ready to employ even more. Of course, we understand that other state

беларусь.belarus 2011

graduation, they continue developing projects begun at university. Additionally, from 2011, the HTP is to open its own training centre to re-train personnel. For example, an engineer can be re-trained as a qualified programmer in just 6-8 months, while other IT specialists can be prepared. Importantly, the centre will offer not just training but a guaranteed job at an HTP company (if final examinations are successfully passed). Simultaneously, a BelarusianIndian training centre is being launched at the HTP. Belarusian specialists who have passed an internship at India’s leading universities and programming centres and have mastered modern technologies will lecture. Of course, being the largest of its kind in the country and paying good salaries, the HTP is doing well and is employing the best of the best: ‘the personnel cream’. This is not appreciated by everyone but the establishment has its own logic. “If specialists can attract dozens of times more investments and modern technologies into the country while working at the HighTech Park, rather than at any other company, then it’s clear where they should be working,” believes Mr. Martinkevich. By Denis Patolichev

Facts  High-Tech Park, headquartered in

period of 2009). Exports of services Minsk, compiles ratings for residents, dealing with software development based on their size, software produc- stood at $94m during this period tion volumes and exports. (up 36 percent on the same EPAM Systems tops all Export period of 2009) while exports three ratings, followed by structure accounted for 80 percent of System Technologies, the HTP’s total producItransition and tion volumes. 45,1% SaM Solutions. At the moment, 33% From Januar y88 resident17,3% 4,6% September 2010, companies are growth in software registered with the production at the High-Tech Park. From H i g h -Te c h P a r k  Countries of North America January-September reached 143 percent  Countries of Western Europe 2010, over 800 new jobs (against the same  CIS countries  Other countries were created there.

PANORAMA

Electronic integration Belarusian research and education network integrated into GEANT panEuropean data network, with boundary optical frequency transition between Belarusian and Polish research networks

Borders unnecessary for scientific community Belarus eager to join EU supercomputing projects

elarusian scientists have been developing supercomputers jointly with their Russian colleagues but are now keen to liaise with European experts on similar projects. The possibility is being examined, explains the Deputy Director General of the United Institute of Informatics Problems of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Vladimir Anishchenko. “We are evaluating the prospects of joining the PRACE (Partnership for Advanced Computing in Europe) project, which unites Europe’s leading universities and research centres. The project is focused on developing supercomputer technologies,” he notes. “The possibility of taking part in this project as an associated partner is being discussed.” At p r e s e nt , m o s t Eu r o p e a n programmes aim to set up research consortiums to develop supercomputer technologies. “Our goal is to prove our cutting-edge knowledge, attracting interest from European countries and hoping that they’ll invite our specialists to join their consortiums. We are yet to be invited to join any of them,” adds Mr. Anishchenko.

“B

elarus’ research and education community is now integrated into Europe’s electronic infrastructure, with a high data throughput of 1 Gb/s,” explains the Deputy Director General of the United Institute of Informatics Problems of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Vladimir Anishchenko. He adds that GEANT enables us to carry out research and educational programmes jointly with Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Ukraine and other EU members, via cross-border co-operation. This is in line with the 7th Framework Programme of the EU (FP7) and the Eastern Partnership initiative. The pan-European network provides data and materials for computer studies, space programmes, healthcare, nuclear research and more. Moreover, our Belarusian scientists have the opportunity to take part in European projects regarding elementary particle physics, genetic engineering and telemedicine. “Belarusian research has been granted highspeed access to European electronic resources. Meanwhile, Belarusian students c an t a ke advant age of GEANT’s e-education technologies,” notes the expert. In turn, the Chief Technical Officer of the Trans-European Research and Education Networking Association (TERENA), Valentino Cavalli, stresses that the EU is ready to develop research co-operation with Belarus and carry out joint projects. He explains that one project will help Belarusian students gain wireless internet access in Belarus and across Europe.

Targeting international market with innovations National Academy of Sciences of Belarus and CISCO agree on co-operation

he National Academy of Sciences and the Belarusian representative office of the world’s largest telecommunication company — CISCO — have signed a memorandum of intentions for co-operation. The two sides plan to develop partnership in the sphere of telecommunications and high technologies. Interaction with CISCO should open up new opportunities for Belarusian scientists in developing world level technologies and promoting their innovations to the international market. Experts from the telecommunication giant are soon to discuss definite projects for joint implementation with the NAS. CISCO is an American transnational company and a world leader in network technologies, boasting net sales of $40bn in 2010 financial year. It supports promising scitech projects worldwide, such as the construction of India’s first completely ‘electronic’ city. Meanwhile, the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus is developing sci-tech collaboration with scientific centres from Austria, the UK, Germany, Korea, China, India, Cuba, Lithuania, Poland, the USA, France and elsewhere. Last year, NAS organisations liaised on joint work with research centres from 79 countries: in Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, North and South America.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Investments

Competitive project Vitebsk’s new enterprise could become flagship of pharmaceutical branch

Belta

беларусь.belarus 2011

walk down the immaculately clean corridor and everything is fascinating to me: the next doors won’t open until the previous set is closed and access to the packaging room requires walking through a foot bath and the putting on of surgical boots. Each door bears an indicator of its degree of cleanliness, while workers from different subdivisions never intermix. Even lunch time is well planned, with staff able to make use of a microwave oven, kettle and refrigerator in their comfortable, yet practical, lunchroom. The environment doesn’t encourage long breaks, since time is of the essence. “We initially began producing the non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug — ‘Oximal’,” explains the Director of BelVitunipharm, Oleg Merkushev. “Our new filling and packaging workshop (packing 50 varieties of 24 medicines) is the first stage in our innovative project to create new facilities. The next stage envisages the mastering of a full-cycle drug production. We’ll manufacture a variety of medicine forms: tablets, powders, tinctures, suppositories, ointments, drops and injectable solutions.” The company plans to achieve full capacity by mid-2012, investing about 40m euros into reconstructing another block. It is focusing on importsubstitution, keen to produce 300 new products. BelVitunipharm will develop with participation of Jordan money. The pharmaceutical market is a complicated segment, with all developments and recipes patented — protected against attempts at duplication. It takes 3-5 years to create generic preparations but up to 10 years to design an original drug: the expense of such long term investment is too great for a new facility.

Co-operation A large Jordanian pharmaceutical company is providing investments to aid further construction at the plant, ensuring jobs as soon as the first stage comes into operation. Interestingly, ‘Oximal’ — which is now being packaged — has been delivered from Jordan. The firm is ready to share its technology in producing 150 drugs, which are now in demand at home and abroad. “The opening of a new facility is of state importance,” notes Mr. Merkushev. “Besides providing the Belarusian market with good quality, well-priced medications, we can supply d r u g s abroad, with

institution of the country operates here. Its undergraduates are already being invited for practical work at the enterprise. Talks are underway with Belarus’ other higher educational establishments, which train chemists, biologists and other specialists. Jointly with Vitebsk Medical University, a scientific-training production complex is to be set up at BelVitunipharm. Additionally, a pharmaceutical enterprise is due to open in the near future, occupying a specially allocated building.

The company plans to achieve full capacity by mid2012, investing about 40m euros into reconstructing another block. It is focusing on import-substitution, keen to produce 300 new products the help of our foreign partners: to the Middle East and Northern Africa. Our Jordanian colleagues already sell their manufactures there.” At present, the company employs 55 workers but, in the near future, is to provide jobs for over 600 people. Vitebsk lacks specialists, so additional training is being undertaken to ensure personnel are suitably qualified. The director and chief engineer have been trained at leading European companies, receiving internationally recognised certificates. The problem could be solved, as the largest and most prestigious medical

These are quite successful and politically justified steps on the path defined by the state development programme for the coming five years. In a few years’ time, Vitebsk’s specialists should occupy a worthy niche on the global pharmaceutical market, with the domestic industry allowing imports of some foreign medicines to be reduced. A wide range of methods and means of treatment should become available, inspiring confidence regarding quality, produced by recognised manufacturers.

In context of neighbourhood Centre of International Ecological Conventions and Agreements opens in Minsk

joint EU / UNDP project entitled Support to Environment and Sustainable Development in Belarus has been set up, with the Belarusian Ministry for Natural Resources and Environmental Protection as its executive agency. The Centre aims to promote international environmental conventions, creating an inventory of greenhouse gas emissions and monitoring them, while assessing the country’s vulnerability towards climatic change. Information will then be processed and disseminated to the public. “Belarus has joined many important environmental conventions and UN protocols, as well as signing bilateral documents with adjoining states in the area of environmental protection and the regional use of trans-boundary natural resources and territories,” notes Igor Chulba, UNDP ecological project co-ordinator in Belarus. “The opening of the institution will create conditions for inter-regional and trans-boundary collaboration while sharing information and monitoring the fulfilment of obligations regarding environmental conventions.” Yelena Rakova, a representative of the EU delegation in Belarus, underlines the EU Office’s interest in implementing environmentally friendly and energy projects in our country. “Next year, we plan to expand the EU Office in Belarus, allowing us to increase the number of environmental (and other) projects being implemented,” she notes.

By Yelena Burmistrova

2011 беларусь.belarus

made in Belarus

Felt boots are feast for the eyes Each company aims to create a trademark which is both recognisable and prestigious. Think of ‘Belarus’ tractors, vehicles from MAZ and BelAZ, and ‘Milavitsa’ lingerie. Soon, felt boots made in Smilovichi (Minsk region’s Cherven district) are to join the list of well-known domestic goods

he financial-economic crisis of 2009 was the third of its kind for Smilovichi Felting Factory’s Director, Vasily Saban. However, each time, his unique company has recovered from its challenging situation. Mr. Saban, 55, has not only survived these times of trouble but has discovered a solution for ‘his’ factory. Having worked there for 38 years, we can admit that he is justified in claiming it for his own. The crisis of the early 1990s partially changed the focus of his company, with alternative jobs created via diversification into furniture making. Meanwhile, the company modernised its felt boot production, with the range of wool-made products expanded, increasing supplies to the domestic market. The same, timetested method was applied in 2009. “This branch may be one of the oldest but it has embraced progress,” says Mr. Saban, looking at black-andwhite photos from the 1950-1960s. These depict cumbersome felt boots with rubber soles, being made in dilapidated wooden factory buildings. “In 1928 (the year of the factory’s establishment), Smilovichi staff made just 8-10 pairs of felt boots daily; the figure is ten times larger now. Over eight decades, the quality has also improved. Our modern felt boots are lighter, boasting coloured fur trimmings, fluorescent bands and appliqué detailing. Our felt boots for

беларусь.belarus 2011

children have light, transparent rubber soles, while those for adults have ridged polyurethane soles (instead of the previous black-coloured slippery rubber soles). We’re now working on making women’s felt boots more attractive and fashionable, without giving them high

Not only customers but also the manufactures admire felt boots

heels! Jointly with a Belarusian shoe factory, we’re developing a new boot-tree.” Felt boots have been worn for over two centuries but still enjoy popularity with villagers, builders, the military, steel workers and ice fishermen. In recent years, felt boots have even gained iconic

status, being bought in Russia, the Baltic States, Ukraine and Finland; Smilovichimade footwear is worn with pleasure. In Soviet times, about three dozen enterprises produced felt boots. As soon as the crisis ended, almost all felt-boot production fell to zero in Russia. In fact, only a handful of CIS manufacturers still make felt boots, while the Smilovichi factory is the only such company in Belarus, exporting up to 80 percent of its range to Russia. Around 10 percent of its sales are to the Baltic States. The company makes 37 different woollen products — including felt boots for children and adults, technical felt, woollen blankets and pillows, and sets for banyas. Its major suppliers of raw materials are based in Russia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. The company has managed not only to avoid bankruptcy but to advance significantly in its traditional manufacture. The process of felt boot making is complicated and labour intensive, including 36 operations, with only a few of them mechanised. …I went to Smilovichi to buy felt boots for my sister but ended up buying some for myself and my family. They’re beautiful and warm and environmentally friendly, being produced from sheep’s wool, without additives or synthetic glue. Anyone wearing Smilovichi-made felt boots must surely feel warm; their footwear has been made with love and retains the warmth of their makers’ hands. By Galina Trofimenko

рэйтынг

New course for Vetraz Unique Italian designer dishware soon to appear at Begoml plant

he Director of Begoml’s Vetraz Plant, Anatoly Sivko, tells us that a protocol has been signed to create joint manufacture with the Italian company to produce kitchen dishware: saucepans and frying pans. Designer solutions and anti-stick coatings should allow the goods to find a reliable niche on the market. “According to preliminary estimates, we’ll be able to manufacture up to 200,000 units monthly, initially for export alone. In future, these will be available for sale in Belarus,” notes Mr. Sivko. “We’ll be taking on new staf f, allowing us to double or triple output.” Around 3m euros is to be invested into the project, which is unique for the Vitebsk region, with half of the cost paid for by Italian partners.

“Syabar” has pass the test Bobruisk’s Syabar Brewery, one of the largest investment projects involving foreign capital, renamed as Heineken Brewery

he enterprise in Bobruisk previously belonged to Heineken but didn’t have the right to sell under its trademark until it proved that its level of production and quality met international standards. Despite the brewery being 100 percent foreign owned, it brings local benefits in terms of employment and tax payments. According to the concern, it takes part in many social projects. Last year, it financially supported Shinnik HC and has been sponsoring the Belarusian Volleyball Federation in 2010.

Moving towards long-term prosperity Belarus outranks Russia and Ukraine in Legatum Prosperity Index

elarus was ranked 54th in the 2010 Legatum Prosperity Index, outranking Russia (63rd) and Ukraine (69th). The Legatum Prosperity Index is an annual ranking of countries’ prosperity, published by the British Legatum Institute (an independent scientific research institution) jointly with Oxford Analytica and Gallup World Poll Service analytical centres. Unlike other similar surveys, which rely solely on the prompt data, the Legatum Prosperity Index assesses factors of prosperity from the point of view of their influence on economic growth and long-term population welfare.

Gomselmash maintains the potential Gomselmash Production Association’s exports rise over six-fold in five years

n 2005, the company exported a modest $35m of farm machinery; by 2009, the figure had reached $219m. Over the last four years, exports have grown annually by 1.6 times. From January-October 2010, export growth continued, although tough weather conditions this year considerably narrowed foreign sales of new harvesters.

According to specialists, Gomselmash’s production of grain harvesters has enabled it to advance to the top five manufacturers of farm machinery,

exporting to 24 countries. Fourteen joint ventures assemble Gomselmash machinery abroad: in Russia, Kazakhstan, China, Argentina and elsewhere.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Records of kindness

Belta

Campaigns

Belarusian athletes take part in Give Children a Hand charity campaign, hosted by Minsk’s McDonald’s — a sponsor of the National Olympic Committee of Belarus

lympic champions and prize holders from various years took part in the fund raising event: Igor Astapkovich, Irina Yatchenko, Tatiana Ledovskaya, Vasily Kaptyukh, Natalia Sazanovich and Inna Zhukova. They were joined by the rhythmic gymnastic team, which claimed bronze at the Beijing-2008 Olympic Games. Inna Zhukova, who won silver at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing for rhythmic gymnastics, was taking part in the traditional McDonald’s event for the first time. “Jointly with the serving staff, we chatted to customers while selling fries and ‘Helping Hand’ charms. We explained how the funds will be spent. It’s great to be part of this; I’m glad that such events are organised in our country. Unfortunately, I have only now realised that it had been taking place for several years. However, I hope to take part for years to come now. I endeavour to support charities, regularly participating in the Athletes to Children campaign. Sadly, I can’t do this all the time, because of my tough schedule, but I have some free time at the moment. This is giving me more opportunities to be involved in charity work,” notes Ms. Zhukova. All the funds generated from the sale of ‘Helping Hand’ charms and fries are being spent on equipping centres for diagnostics and rehabilitation of physical and psychomotor

беларусь.belarus 2011

disorders for children under the age of three, at Minsk’s children’s polyclinics. The latter opened as a result of fundraising from the McHappy Day in 2009. Such centres help support parents of disabled children, assisting in their adaptation to difficult situations. They provide advice on how to work with these children at home. “I very much want to help these children, although it’s the first time I’m taking part in this charity event. It’s a very unusual feeling. Our team was pleasantly surprised to receive an invitation,” notes Alina Tumilovich, who won bronze with the Belarusian national rhythmic gymnastic squad for team exercises at the Beijing Olympics in 2008. The McHappy Day event has been held in Belarus since 2002 and many outstanding Belarusian athletes have taken part since its launch. “We’re old-timers here. It’s wonderful that athletes are invited and we have the chance to support children,” stresses Tatiana Ledovskaya, 1988 Seoul Olympic champion in the 4x400m relay. McDonald’s customers were able to have their photo taken with the athletes and ask for autographs. The Olympic champions also signed a banner at the restaurant, wishing children good health and happy smiles. By Irina Leshkevich

Programmes

Innovative approach within the cultural stream Government adopts 2011-2015 Culture of Belarus state programme he programme aims to enhance the social and economic efficiency of the cultural sphere, with the major accent placed on innovation. A system is to be set up to stimulate extra-budgetary funds for cultural projects. These include the Republican Patron of Culture Contest, as well as the establishment of trustee boards for the most significant cultural institutions, and information support for patrons. Additionally, funds are to be directed towards the restoration of landmarks, such as the castles of Lida, Golshany and Novogrudok. A national electronic library is planned, to supplement that dedicated to Frantsisk Skorina — Belarusian and Eastern Slavonic First Book Printer and the Radziviliana electronic libraries. State museums and libraries are being completely computerised, with new concepts generated for the State Museum of Great Patriotic War History and the National History Museum. A ‘Museums of Belarus’ website is also to be launched. A national museum festival — Inter-Museum-Belarus — is being launched, as is the National Theatre Award and National Musical Award for Pop Art (annual competitions). Scientific

Belta

Winter in Nesvizh castle

research is to be conducted to determine further strategies for cultural development. Additionally, four cultural centres are to open abroad, promoting the Belarusians Worldwide governmental programme; this foresees the training and internship of Belarusian students abroad. According to the Culture Ministry, the implementation of the programme will help promote the accessibility of our cultural wealth — allowing rural and urban residents wider opportunities to enjoy our treasures — while educating others about our culture. By Mikhail Groshev

Strategic resource

the support of diplomatic missions accredited in Belarus. “However, large projects — like this one — require a great deal of money and help from patrons,” he adds. According Director of National History Museum, Sergey Vecher, says the to Mr. Vecher, the museum is always in need of funds for its creation of a modern site for his museum will be the first copublishing projects. The most important new edition being operative project with Japan Tobacco International planned is a high quality album entitled National History he announcement was made after the signing of an Museum of Belarus, which details the history and major agreement on bilateral strategic partnership. Mr. Vecher treasures of this cultural establishment. It could be ready does not exclude the possibility of within two years’ time, with support from JTI. liaising with the museum’s new partner Mr. Vecher stresses that many metal, in organising public events — such as wooden and fabric exhibits require restoNight of Museums. In addition, ration, in order to be showcased in future. During exhibition projects requiring Among those in great need of repair is negotiations on co-operation special display equipment a unique shoemakers’ banner and are likely to be funded. Mr. that from an 18th century religious Vecher notes that the a ss o c i at i on . Ad d it i on a l ly, museum has rich expemuch money is needed to buy rience in showcasing expensive foreign materials other nations’ cultures, and pay for specialists’ work. having previously According to Mr. Vecher, this organised exhibitions project would be unlikely to be featuring artefacts from realised without a strategic partner. foreign museums, with By Mikhail Gorchakov

2011 беларусь.belarus

Artur Prupas

Education

No translation required Foreigners consider it prestigious to learn Belarusian

arl Marx Street is the most international street in Minsk, connecting various blocks of the Belarusian State University, where many foreign students study. The Philological Department is situated at the centre, with languages from all over the world heard. However, many of those who arrive in Minsk to study can already speak Belarusian, sometimes even without an accent. Those from neighbouring Russia and Poland come to Minsk to study, as

беларусь.belarus 2011

do citizens from the Czech Republic, Germany and China. Chang In is the Dean of the Russian Language Department at Harbin’s University of Science and Technology, which has been liaising with the BSU for a long time. Chinese students come to Minsk to learn Russian, but Chang In is launching a department to teach Belarusian. “I’m a linguist, interested in different languages. Belarusian and Russian are official languages in Belarus. To ensure close co-operation, I believe we need to know them both,

so plan to start teaching both to my students,” she says. Chang In has learnt Belarusian from her colleague, Svetlana Yakuba, an associate professor at the BSU. Additionally, the Chinese specialist listens to live speech, visiting villages close to Minsk and talking to residents in Belarusian. BSU associate professor Anzhelika Sadovskaya asserts that it’s not easy for foreigners to learn Belarusian. “For example, the Russian language lacks the ‘r’ sound, which is wide-spread in Belarusian. To learn how to pronounce it, you need to change the way you speak. It’s the first thing we show our students.” Alexander Seleznev has come to Minsk from Moscow and has almost no problem pronouncing Belarusian. The main challenge lies in words which are very similar in pronunciation but different in meaning. For example, the word ‘staranna’ (translated as diligently) sounds like the Russian word

Education ‘stranno’ (strange). Every new language has these stumbling blocks. Alexander is among the fe w Russians studying Belarusian. It may seem strange but most BSU students learning Belarusian come from China, Turkmenistan and Germany. Of course, Belarusians and Russians understand each other without the need for translation; still, Mr. Seleznev is convinced that it’s important to know the languages of neighbouring nations. “It’s important not just for communication but for understanding each country in general. Each nation’s language is its soul. For a Russian to understand the soul of a Belarusian, they must study the fundamentals (at least) of their language. It makes us closer.” Malvina Johnson, a student from Biała Podlaska (a Polish city on the border with Belarus), began learning Belarusian rather accidentally. “I entered the local branch of Lublin

Expert opinion:  Tatiana Ramza, an associate

professor at the Belarusian State University’s Department of Modern Belarusian Language, lectures in Belarusian to Western European students. She has even written a textbook for foreigners, entitled Belarusian Language with Pleasure. She tells us, “ The Belarusian language is now taught not only in Minsk but abroad. In Poland, centres of Belarusian culture and language are operational, in addition to Belarusian language departments at Warsaw, Lublin and Białystok universities. Whole groups of students attend, usually taking internships in Belarus, for three-four weeks. A professor from the USA’s Harvard University, Curt Woolhiser, annually organises a Summer School for Belarusian language studies at Polish Hajnówka. In Germany, Belarusian language studies have been created at the

University to study Russian. I was surprised to receive my first lectures in Belarusian. However, I loved it; living on the border, alongside Belarusians, I’d heard it spoken before. I became ever more interested and, when offered lessons in Bulgarian, decided to continue with Belarusian instead.” Malvina came to Minsk several years ago and speaks Belarusian without any accent. She explains, “In Belarusian, many sounds resemble those from Polish; our languages are both Slavonic. It’s easy for me to pronounce the strong ‘р’ (r), ‘ж’ (zh), ‘ш’ (sh), ‘ч’ (ch) and ‘дж’ (dzh) — which also exist in Polish. My tongue hasn’t needed retraining.” In this respect, it’s easier for Malvina than for Chang In. Interestingly, the Polish student has even begun writing a scientific paper in Belarusian — about the artistic life of Yan Barshchevsky, who lived in Belarus 200 years ago. He wrote his

Gentry Man Zavalnya legends (likened to the Arabian 1001 Nights) in Polish, while living in Russian St. Petersburg. Clearly, our Slavonic nations share a special language and cultural ties. Malvina is studying Russian and aims to pass an internship at the BSU. “It won’t be a problem for me to master Russian, since I already know Belarusian and Polish,” she says. Meanwhile, Mikhail Vashichek, a student from Prague, already knows every Slavonic language. He even speaks Belarusian, though only began to learn two years ago — at Prague’s Charles University. Mikhail’s colleagues in Prague and Minsk call him ‘a phenomenon’. He has already visited Polesie (as part of an ethnographic expedition) and the famous village of Motyl (where mixed Belarusian-Ukrainian dialect is used). Soon, Mikhail will be able to personally lecture in foreign languages.

University of Oldenburg. My former student, Claudia Hurtig, now lectures in Belarusian at Leipzig University. Since 1994, the B elarusian language has been taught at Budapest University, under the patronship of famous Slavonic and Belarusian language expert András Zoltán, who heads the Department for Eastern Slavonic and Balkan Philology. Not long ago, our President awarded him with the Frantsisk Skorina medal for his support of Belarusian language and culture. Students at Slovakia’s University of Prešov can also learn

Belarusian, under the guidance of former BSU associate professor Victoria Lyashuk. In addition, Belarusian has been taught at Belgrade University for the past four years. Optional courses in Belarusian are organised in the Czech Republic, with former BSU associate professor Yuri Bushlyakov lecturing at Charles University (a past teacher of Mikhail Vashichek).”

By Viktar Korbut

2011 беларусь.belarus

Environment seventeen forestries sustain an optimal population of animals, while eradicating undesirable inhabitants such as the raccoon, which has no natural predators in the forest. Their overpopulation is a real problem, with this

Pushcha’s boars are especially wanted trophies for hunters from Western Europe: in certain countries urbanization almost whittle down their population

untouched by urbanisation Foreign hunters help regulate animal population in Belovezhskaya Pushcha while bringing in considerable revenue

he National Belovezhskaya Pushcha Park hotel complex is seeing more guests in autumn than in summer, with its comfortable rooms mostly booked by Russian, German, French and Italian hunters. Every year, the Park’s administration expands the number of licenses granted to hunters, allowing them to help it in the necessary job of regulating the animal population. Foreign revenue generated by the Park from its accommodation and hunting licenses is rising in propor-

беларусь.belarus 2011

tion to the number of foreign hunters arriving in the Pushcha. In spring, the schedule for hunting tours was compiled until the end of the year, with over 700 hunters due to arrive from Russia and Western Europe. About 200 have already visited, taking home hunting trophies. Ho l i d a y i n g in the Pushcha with their guns, foreigners help the game wardens of

Belta

Land

small animal’s smell frightening large animals; it also destroys bird nests. Another pest in the Pushcha is wild boar, which often attack nearby farms in large groups. These clever ‘dziks’ — as local residents call them — are a Western European hunter favourite, since urbanisation has led to their extinction in some countries. Foreigners compare the boar with a grand piano, owing to its huge size; its tusks alone reach twenty centimetres, making a prestigious trophy. Meanwhile, aurochs are a protected species, with hunting prohibited in the Pushcha. Around 400 live in the Park and are not allowed to leave unless being sent to other reserves or zoos. This summer, three females were sent to

Russia’s Bryansk Zoo. Interestingly, the population of aurochs previously recommended for the Belovezhskaya Pushcha was 250 but this has risen to 400, owing to the addition of neighbouring lands (which have gained reserve status). Applications to kill these majestic animals are available in certain circumstances, where an auroch is ill or very old, but the paperwork involved is lengthy. The Park must send a photo to Belarus’ Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Ministry, with an explanation of the need for the animal’s death. If the National Park’s arguments are convincing, a commission travels from Minsk to the site to view the auroch and decide its fate. Sadly, last summer, a healthy auroch was killed by a foreign hunter by mistake, as the court ruled; he had thought he was hunting a wild boar. Nevertheless, the German was required to pay a $30,000 fine for his error. As regards illegal hunting, various mechanisms are in place to prevent poaching, implemented by the National Park’s own forest guards. Recent legislative changes allow such poachers to be punished for their actions. Previously, weighty evidence was needed to prove crimes committed in the forest; now, if a poacher is caught with an animal carcass, they won’t escape responsibility by saying that they’ve found it in the woods. Organised killing of animals — as part of controlled hunting for the entertainment of rich guests — helps maintain the natural balance in the forest while generating significant income; it is a way of preserving and maintaining the woods. By Mikhail Feontistov

Belta

Environment

Museum of Wild Nature

Reserve gains status Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve added to List of Wetlands of International Importance — following decision of Ramsar Convention Secretariat

he reserve has been preparing the necessary documents for filing with the Ramsar Bureau for several years, jointly with Belarus’ Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection and the National Academy of Sciences. Status is granted according to a complex system of criteria. Berezinsky Reserve has become the ninth site in Belarus boasting this status, joining Sporovsky, Srednya (Mid) Pripyat, Zvanets, Omalnskie Bolota (marshes), Osveysky, Yelnya, Kotra and Prostyr. Information on these and other sites included on the List of Wetlands of International Importance can be found on the database of the Wetlands International — continuously updated. The main purpose of the Ramsar Convention is to conserve and sustain wetlands. Berezinsky Reserve is a unique natural environment combining exceptional diversity: upland, transitional and low-lying wetlands. These account for 60 percent of the reserve, while an extensive network of large and small rivers also exist, creating the floodplain of the Berezina River, and lakes varying in size and origin. The total area of the wetlands is about 70 percent, while the number and composition of its plants and animals meet international criteria for inclusion on the list of Ramsar sites. Berezinsky Reserve is

home to many species threatened with extinction on a global scale. It is among the most important places for nesting and migration of water-birds in Belarus. The reserve already has the status of State Reserve, Biosphere Reserve, a key ornithological area, and a monitoring site of the National Environment Monitoring System (NEMS). The Ramsar Convention (The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, especially as Waterfowl Habitat), was adopted in the Iranian city of Ramsar in February 1971. It is the first global international treaty devoted entirely to one type of ecosystem. The Ramsar Convention has 160 country signatories, with Belarus joining in 1990. At present, Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve is negotiating with foreign partners regarding the acquisition of thoroughbred aurochs. At the moment, their population in the reserve is about 35. The first of these large mammals — the heaviest among those living on the European continent — appeared in the reserve in 1974, giving birth to the current herd. Outside animals are required to diversify their gene pool and talks are underway with the Polish centre involved in study of aurochs, regarding receiving animals for this purpose free of charge. By Darya Kurilova

2011 беларусь.belarus

Tourism new possibilities

According to laws of hospitality State programmes to raise country’s attractiveness to foreign tourists

bout 200km separate B e l a r u s’ n or t h e r n western border from the Baltic Sea, bringing Vitebsk region’s Braslav district a milder climate than that seen in the country’s centre. Local forests abound with animals while almost 300 lakes are full of fish. The area is also known for its wonderful architectural treasures — such as Vidzy’s Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is among the tallest in Belarus. Meanwhile, Slobodka’s Jesus’ Heart Cathedral is painted with unique frescoes. These attractions make Braslav among the most popular destinations for Belarusians and foreigners.

Belta

Recreation center proficiently incorporates comfort and beauty

Now, a state programme is being developed (to run until 2015) to raise the attractiveness of the region to tourists, turning the district centre (home to 10,000) into a modern European city. The local tourist industry is to enter a whole new level. In late 2010, a working group involved in developing the programme gathered in Braslav, stressing that much attention is being attached to international cooperation — via investments and a worthy welcome to foreign tourists. At present, there are five tourist bases and two hotels — situated in Braslav and near the town; these can sleep about 300 guests each night, with modernisation planned to raise the number further. New facilities are to be added to ensure every comfort. Drivyaty tourist base within the Braslav Lakes National Park, which occupies 70,000 hectares, is among the most modern and popular destinations. It’s soon to be expanded, with new hotels, a sp a c e nt re, a c afé and an indoor aqua park. A folk village is being considered, allowing tourists to exp er ience t radi -

беларусь.belarus 2011

tional crafts, see cheese making in action, visit a bakery, eat smokeddried eel and drink the national drink of medovukha (a honey-based alcoholic beverage). There are also plans to develop amateur fishing and a safari park. O w i n g t o t h e Bra s l av S h e e t Lightning Festival, Braslav region has established close cultural ties with Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Latvia and Lithuania, which always send participants. The Festival was first organised in 1953, focusing on the revival, development and popularisation of the best traditions and achievements of national culture and art. In the past, it was organised on Zamkovaya (Castle) Hill, in the centre of the town. In the early 16 th century, Duchess Yelena, who was married to Grand Duke Alexander ( w ho r u l e d ove r L it hu an i a and Russia) and actually owned Braslav, founded a monastery on the site. Fragments of this ancient settlement are due to be restored as part of the Braslav district’s tourism development programme. The ancient Belarusian town has many interesting sporting traditions, including an international fishing contest, which has been gathering hundreds of fishermen from Belarus,

Projects

Hospitable city Mogilev to position itself as heart of Eastern Europe

‘M

Picturesque views of Braslav lakes

Russia and Latvia for the past few ye ars. Europ e an champions are among them, competing for the ‘Largest Fish’ and ‘Heaviest Catch’. A culinary contest, with fish dishes cooked, completes the event. Last November, the final round of the Belarusian Rally Championship was held in Braslav district, featuring 27 teams from Belarus, Lithuania, Russia and Ukraine. They traversed over 80km of difficult roads, with Lithuanians Vytautas Švedas and Tomas Balžekas winning. Braslav may host three rallies this year, including a round of the Russian Championship (as part of the Slavonic Cup International Rally). Sports lovers and those who enjoy the outdoor life are sure to be delighted by the town’s new rowing channel, ski-roller track and ski slope (with cable), in addition to a sports c ompl e x w it h an i c e rink. The local cinema is to be fully moder-

nised, with new halls opened, while an entertainment complex is to be built, offering billiards and bowling. A new shopping centre, featuring a café for children, is also planned, alongside a lake-river museum, with an aquarium. The facilities will be priced to cater for visitors of all levels of income. This wonderful resort town should please tourists with its modernised infrastructure and Braslav district could soon become an international tourist destination. Economic conditions are being created to ensure the area’s independent development. Private, including foreign, investments are sought, with privileged terms offered. One potential investor is to start construction of a new sanatorium very soon. State programmes to ensure regional development are already operational in the Polesie and Naroch Lake areas. By Sergey Golesnik

Vidzy's Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is considered among the highest in Belarus, and the interior of the Jesus' Heart Catherdral Slobodka is painted with unique frescos

y City of Mogilev is the Heart of Eastern Europe’ has won a contest to find the best slogan for the regional city. The City of Mogilev — a Unique City contest was judged by famous Mogilev historians, local folklore experts and figures of culture and arts, who selected the best 20 ideas from 105 entries. Pavel Lyubchenko’s slogan won, cleverly creating an acrostic with its initial letters to denote that Mogilev is a city of light. The bright, informative and memorable slogan encapsulates the essence of the city on the River Dnieper, reminding us of its historical,

A sculpture of an ancient astronomer decorates the city

geographical and philosophical importance. The city welcomes visitors with an open heart, and the new slogan is soon to appear on billboards, posters and cross street banners. Other bright ideas are also to be applied to promote Mogilev’s image.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Architecturereview

Ancient place W How to preserve the unique skyline of a modern megapolis’ historical centre

orldwide, skyscrapers of glass and concrete seem to be replacing the cosy old towns of our cities. People are eagerly parting with the century old walls built by their forefathers, although we continue to be impressed by the architectural monuments of the past. It would be easier to preserve them unchanged, creating new buildings nearby but, still, the historical centres of cities such as Minsk and Paris face problems. A post-graduate student of the Belarusian State University, Stepan Stureiko, 26, has been studying European experience of preserving old buildings for over five years. He focuses on both the positive and negative aspects and believes that harmony can be achieved between architecture from different epochs. He has already published his second book — Anthropology of Cultural Legacy — describing the restoration and conservation of architectural monuments in Europe and Belarus. The young researcher devoted his first work to Grodno residents who fought in the 1904 Russian-Japanese War and now studies the ethnography of Afghans (not soldiers, but

беларусь.belarus 2011

those who live in this mountainous state and their diaspora in Belarus). He has a wide outlook on the world and publishes his books using his own savings, being keen to see them in print quickly; although, no doubt, the state publishing house would print them. “Time will pass and my theories will become old,” he says. Stepan works like a journalist, at a pace uncommon to most scientists. He shares his views: I’m ever developing and, even, reconsider my views from time to time. I read new literature regarding city planning, and chat with foreign specialists. Some time ago, I was more critical regarding the preservation of old town centres; now, I understand that it’s not as simple a situation as it might seem. Some of those who campaign for the preservation of monuments may believe that the state is indifferent to our architectural heritage; however, this isn’t true. A special department at our Cultural Ministry is working hard to preserve our legacy, taking a global approach. Local authorities — in small and large cities — tackle problems as they arise, such as a shop requesting permission to be sited in a certain place. Proceeding from this, they might sacrifice global values, demolishing an old valuable

building. Many historians and local history researchers might fight for such buildings to be preserved. So might architects although, to realise their own projects, they may simultaneously need to restore a building and even demolish, to allow new construction. Architects and historians have their own ideas on how they want a site to look; they have an ideal image. However, implementing this ideal vision in a way that is appropriate, while still appealing to their client, is tricky. Architects have their own view of what’s right, while their client may need expanded trading space and less architectural detailing, since it’s expensive. Does each architect who advocates restoration and construction represent their own personal interests rather than public opinion? In Prague, many Baroque style buildings have been demolished. Not long ago, famous Charles Bridge was repaired: a symbol both of the city and of the Czech Republic. Old boards were torn up, while old stone blocks were replaced with new ones. In our country, the Culture Ministry would have hampered the process but no measures were taken in due time in Prague; everything ended in scandal.

which they are unlikely to see anywhere else in the modern world. In the centre of Minsk or Grodno, such corners would have been preserved untouched as well. However, like Paris, we have money. We’ve only recently become rich and are starting to realise various projects. Consequently, the architectural legacy of Nezavisimosti Avenue and the Upper Town in Minsk may be at risk. Previously, a monastery complex was situated here and, for years, was left undisturbed. Now, money is available for its reconstruction, turning it into a hotel. Disputes have been fierce, with people arguing as to whether the city needs another hotel. 18th century houses could remain untouched by modern reconstruction. When bad restoration is mentioned in Belarus, I think of Moscow, where the situation is even worse. In comparison with Russian cities, we have a wonderful situation. Grodno can rival any city in Europe. Let’s speak of Grodno then. On the one hand, it’s a historic city. On the other, people live there. I’ve heard that some of its houses lack elementary conveniences. Is this true? There are flats without toilets, including on the major street: Sovetskaya. Gradually, people are being moved from these houses. However, what should be done with these buildings? We should modernise them! If we replace the authentic features with modern ones (saying that this would be good for people) we’ll create an absolutely new building, with an old facade only. What is the value then? It is lost. Why don’t we renew buildings in line with modern trends? They should serve people’s modern needs. In Brussels, 17th-18th century quarters were demolished on the eve of the international exhibition, in 1956. In Europe, this method of reconstruction was called ‘Brusselisation’. Since then, it has become a shameful stamp. Nevertheless, in 1993, neo-Baroque Shpachkov House was destroyed, with a seven-storey trade-andoffice centre built on the site of this 19th century monument. Did this happen in the centre of Prague?

No one can believe it but the fact is that this happened in the independent, non-communistic Czech Republic. After 1989, people were under the illusion that they’d flourish now that the communists had gone. However, money became the new governing force. The project was submitted to the city magistrate and was allowed to go through. In 2003, a four-star hotel opened in Prague’s former 17 th century Roman Catholic Church of St. Alzbieta. Some Belarusians do not revere their legacy as much as Europeans do; it appears that we are similar, with some caring for the past and others neglecting it. We should not mention Western and Central Europe, since everything is ideal there. However, we are significantly different. In these countries, there are many buildings which could be experimented upon — using old brick and glass and metal. In Belarus, we have only a few such buildings. Why should we preserve the centres of our cities in their original form? Each nation has its own values: faith, family and memory — primarily, the memory of their forefathers. This is natural for all cultures. Sometribeshaveatotemwhich they respect. Until the 20th century, in Belarus, our legacy centred around cemeteries, churches and peasant houses (tables and doors were always brought from an old house to the new one). Our tradition envisages reverence for the possessions of our forefathers, which must be preserved. We s h o u l d n’t A post-graduate lose the connecstudent of the Belarusian State tion between our University, Stepan generations. Stureiko By Viktar Andreev

2011 беларусь.belarus

Artur Prupas

hy was the bridge so roughly repaired, rather than restored? Those in the construction business look after their own interests. Restoration is less work: cleaning old stones and strengthening them. It’s more costly to bring in new stones, so it’s more profitable for the supplier. Do these new materials perhaps look better and brighter? This might seem so to some. Sadly, across Europe, we are finding that the unique old materials of bygone days are being replaced in this manner. If you ignore such monuments as the Eiffel Tower and Charles Bridge, you could be in any city: Paris, Vienna or Grodno. The pavements, lamps and signs all seem to be identical these days…. and often lead to a MacDonalds’! Does this mean that we live in a single civilised space; that we are Europeans and differ little? Tourists tend to appreciate cities looking quaint and cosy; they don’t notice the little things. However, we are finding that authenticity is being diluted. Time will show the error of our ways though… and it will be too late. Saying this, in 1834, Victor Hugo mocked the new houses being built in Paris, occupying the site of former medieval quarters, saying that they were costly to build and demonstrated a ‘funny pretension to incorporate Greek and Roman styles simultaneously’. However, we all admire this style in Paris now. It’s a paradox. I personally have no desire to return to this city... Paris is quite modern — unlike Vilnius and Tallinn, which have narrow, quaint streets. It’s strange: why have they preserved their features while Paris destroyed them during Hugo’s time? In Paris, few medieval buildings remain, as the city has always had enough money to realise bold architectural projects. Vilnius even lacks such money today, so its buildings have remained unchanged over the centuries. This is why the city looks unusual, as if from a fairytale. Tourists go there to see this miracle,

Architecturereview

Touristattraction

Attractive outlines Minsk preparing to annually accept up to a million guests

any people know of Minsk as a large industrial city but, in recent years, it has become a centre of political, economic, sporting, cultural and other international events. In the future, it’s ‘calling card’ is to become even more attractive, owing to the development of its tourist infrastructure. The latter should ensure more payments into the budget, in addition to new jobs.

Money vs health

Every year, Minsk is visited by at least 600,000-700,000 guests, attracted by the Troitsky Suburb, Stolitsa underground trade centre and the new National Library. Others arrive to attend the capital’s theatres or visit a concert by global

Vadim Kondrashov



Top five historical sites

беларусь.belarus 2011

Less ‘stars’ — more profit?

1. The Town Hall, built in 1600 2. The Cathedral on Nemiga Street — the main church of the Russian Orthodox Church’s Belarusian Exarchate 3. Troitsky Suburb 4. The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul 5. Rakov Suburb stars at the Palace of the Republic or Minsk-Arena. Over 4,000 enterprises using foreign capital operate in Minsk. Accordingly, it’s no surprise that many people are attracted to the country’s main city for business. Meanwhile, recuperative tourism is actively developing. Foreigners — primarily, Russians — are ready to travel to Belarus to use the services of dentists, oncologists and fertility specialists or simply to pass a

“There are three aspects influencing raised incoming tourism,” the Deputy Head of the Physical Culture, Sport and Tourism Department at the Minsk City Executive Committee, Vitaly Moshechkov, tells us. Firstly, hotels are vital. There are 28 in Minsk now, able to accommodate 5,500 people. Each tourist spends six days on average in the city; even with 100 percent occupancy, the capital can accommodate just 600,000-700,000 guests a year. Of course, we should take into consideration that about half of all those coming to Minsk are Belarusian. The situation is due to drastically change by 2014, when the city is to host the World Hockey Championship. Already, six hotels are being built or reconstructed; in total, twenty new hotels will b e open



 32

complex medical examination. They are attracted by our offer of value for money. The popularity of such Belarusian services with those from further abroad — from the EU and the Far East — shall largely depend on our doctors’ ability to obtain international certification. Additionally, foreign insurance companies must be ready to pay for their clients’ stay at a Minsk clinic. There are plans to attract at least a million guests to the capital annually — almost double the present figure. However, significant investments and infrastructure development are needed.



Touristattraction by then. As a result, Minsk will be able to welcome 5,000 more tourists each night — almost double today’s capacity. “Foreigners with mid-level incomes are our target price segment in Minsk,” continues Mr. Moshechkov. With this in mind, hotels with four or five stars will be less popular than cheaper three star hotels. Accordingly, more three star hotels need to be built in Minsk over the coming years. Reduced ‘star’ status and enhanced competition should lead to cheaper accommodation prices, promoting the attraction of tourists and positively affecting Belarusian travellers.

Border free and advertising reserves

The second vital aspect is the need to cross the border freely. Half of all foreigners entering Belarus arrive from Russia — much owing to our long established business and cultural ties, our transparent border and the single Russian-language space. However, EU residents are also showing interest in Minsk, in addition to t hos e f rom the Middle East. The ease of the visa and customs



Top five contemporary sites 1. The National Library 2. The multifunctional MinskArena complex 3. The renewed Loshitsa Estate and Park Complex 4. All Saints Church 5. Stolitsa underground trade centre (among the largest in Europe) regime should inspire even greater interest. It’s no secret that the number of incoming tourists tripled in Ukraine after it simplified its procedures for EU guests. In turn, after Russia and Israel abolished certain visas, tourist flow quadrupled. Belarus is working in the same direction. The third aspect is an active marketing policy, since we must lift barriers and actively develop tourist infrastructure. In addition to accommodation and excursions, a wider range of services are needed.

Preferences for hospitality Each foreign tourist sp e n d s arou n d $200—250

in Belarus on products and services. Moreover, as foreign experience shows, eight tourists create enough revenue to validate a new job position. Belarus’ tourist sector is of great importance, having the potential to generate revenue and employment; we must develop it wisely. Minsk accounts for the lion’s share of all foreign tourists coming into the country. Accordingly, it has the right to dictate fashion in this branch. Of course, this would only be appreciated if the whole sector develops smoothly countrywide. Some measures could soon be adopted, according to the Deputy Director for Tourism at the Sports and Tourism Ministry, Andrey Martynov. He tells us that a presidential decree is being prepared to cut VAT on hotel services, while simplifying procedures for allocating lots to build cafes or other tourist infrastructure sites. “We’d like to introduce a tax free system for foreigners,” he notes. This system would enable visitors from abroad to receive a partial refund on taxes paid while buying services and goods during their stay. Another proposal deals with privileged terms for the development of caravan sites. If the country becomes more attractive to tourists, Minsk should easily rival other states in attracting guests and money. By Andrey Ruplivy





 2011 беларусь.belarus

Tourismnews  Nostalgia drives tourism

 For the convenience of visitors

Israeli businessmen keen to invest in historic village of Radun (Voronovo district, Grodno region) creating a tourist centre

A national system of online booking is to be launched countrywide, giving information on hotels within a single tourist-information network

he area is a ‘Jewish Mecca’ in Belarus, since the Yeshiva (seminary) of Chofetz Chaim was located there. The latter was a spiritual leader of Poland and Russia in the late 19th-early 20th century. The building is currently used as a House of Culture but Israel wishes to restore the monument as a sacred place for all Jews. On meeting Israeli businessmen from Mahash net, Belarus’ Minister for Sport and Tourism, Oleg Kachan,

 Interesting destination for tourists First French guide book on Belarus released jointly with National Tourism Agency

h e e d it i on h a s b e e n prepared by the Petit Fute Publishing House, with several thousand copies released in French, targeting exclusively French speaking readers. Belarus is presented in the guide book as an interesting destination, as yet unstudied and untouched by tourists, making it even more attractive. “The

 Premium class relaxation ‘Club SV’ lounge at Minsk-Passazhirsky railway station welcomes first passengers

he new VIP lounge is part of a major programme by Belarusian Railways to improve its services for passengers;

беларусь.belarus 2011

suggested additional talks with local authorities. In his view, the realisation of this project should drive forward tourism development in Belarus. There are no problems relating to its implementation and Mr. Kachan has promised to render all possible help to the investors. Nostalgic tourism relating to Jewish history, culture and religion is a niche that Belarus is keen to explore. French authors have especially noted our rich Belarusian nature, our friendly and hospitable people and the diversity of our culture,” notes Valery Boldyrev, the Head of the National Tourism Agency’s Department for Marketing and Publishing Activity. “They believe that all these should be seen with one’s own eyes o n v i s i t i n g B e l a r u s .” The edition describes the most interesting sights countrywide, providing plenty of practical information. It also has a small dictionary and bright photos, which should attract the attention of French tourists. similar rest zones are planned for every Belarusian railway station. The Head of Minsk-Passazhirsky Station, Alexander Drozhzha, explains that 30 international SV carriages travel through Minsk station daily, arriving from foreign destinations. Now, those with SV tickets can enter a VIP lounge at Minsk’s railway station, staying for up to three hours free of

f course, the database will keep information not only on the most prestigious Minsk hotels but on regional hotels, with sanatoriums and rural farmsteads added later. The system avoids intermediaries, who charge additional fees and time. Hotels will b e able

to independently register with the database, allowing potential guests to see real prices. Booking a room by card payment online will be no problem. The system is already popular worldwide, with online booking chosen by more than half of all Europeans. Soon, a Belarusian tourist-information network will join the international database of hotels, with access available from any connected computer, telephone or terminal: to be set up at airports, railways stations and trade centres. If the system proves popular, bookings for transfer services, tours and excursions will also become possible. charge. The lounge offers wireless Internet access, computer log on stations, reference information, a bar, semi-private booths and a musical corner. Staff will be on hand to book hotels, theatre and concert tickets, or tickets for onward travel through Belarus and the CIS. The lounge will also be open to other passengers for a fixed fee.

Creativetrade

Business of musical sales Sellers of musical instruments cope with consequences of economic crisis

stadub

of the economic crisis has been felt in the musical segment, as it has been elsewhere. “Shops are closing or cutting their number of branches in the city,” sighs Vitaly, a manager at MuzIN musical salon. “We’ve had to close two of our four shops to remain afloat.” Shops which have been operating on the market for several years are the major importers of instruments from abroad. Guitars primarily arrive from Germany, Spain and China, while violins are bought from China and Germany. It’s also possible to order an Italian violin but it can take six months to make an individual instrument, with a hefty price tag as a result. “A hundred grand pianos take some time to sell,” says Ms. Sankovich, adding, “It’s impossible to foresee when a buyer of a certain instrument will come, so some sit in our shop for quite a long time.” Vitaly relies on offering a diverse range of recognisable brands, with 135 guitars in the shop and another 300 in the warehouse — enough for six months. Pre-sale tuning of an instrument is offered as a bonus. “It’s good if I sell one guitar a day but I may sell up to ten! Some people are just browsing of course. Sales fluctuate so we need to keep our fingers on the pulse.” By Marina Dremova

Al ex ander

“M

usical instruments have always been in demand,” explain the staff from Muzyka — a music shop which has been in business for 35 years. “However, their range has expanded; we now offer ten different violins, instead of three, with each differing in tone and price.” A shop assistant from another shop notes, “Belarusians are a musical nation, with parents often keen to see their children learn an instrument. Accordingly, they buy what’s needed. Violins and cellos must be of good quality to ensure they play well. This is necessary to at least become a competent amateur, if not a highly skilled professional musician. With this in mind, people tend to buy the best they can afford. Some people have an ear for music but, without a good instrument, this ability can be quickly lost.” Shops don’t just display stringed instruments these days; they boast a wide range of instruments, from drums to pianos and sound equipment. The acoustic guitar remains the most popular though. “Our shop alone offers 140 models, suitable for professionals and amateur players,” smiles Marina Sankovich, Muzyka’s Director. “We can also organise lessons for our buyers, delivered by specialists from houses of culture, clubs and schools. We host press conferences featuring famous musicians and beginners.” To learn about new deliveries and prices, you can simply visit the website of a particular shop. At first sight, it seems that shops have no problem achieving sales, but advertising is still necessary, with posters displayed on the metro. There’s no doubt that the impact

2011 беларусь.belarus

Music

Melodies from the past

Zmicier Sasnouski returns instruments and composers to national musical art

ot the Academy of Sciences but a single man has written an encyclopaedia of Belarusian music: famous musician Z m i c i e r Sasnouski, who leads Stary Olsa band. His research has taken him over a decade, resulting in his History of Belarusian Musical Culture: From Ancient Times to the Late 18th Century. It was released at the end of last year, with more volumes to follow. Zmicier has already prepared a manuscript on the traditions of our singing and instrumental culture and hopes his work will change the way Belarus is viewed not only by Europe but by the whole world. Until recently, many thought that our country lagged behind regarding musical civilisation; now, it’s evident that Belarus has always been involved in global cultural processes, even outstripping some of its neighbours. Mr. Sasnouski knows more about the history of Belarusian music than

беларусь.belarus 2011

anyone else, even correcting maestros. For example, not long ago, famous Minsk rock musician Lyavon Volsky planned to record ancient music playing the lute. Suddenly, he was concerned that Belarusians may have never played lutes but Mr. Sasnouski was able to reassure him, “At least six lute composers lived in Belarus in the 16th century, in addition to a famous French lutenist, Antoine Gallot, who lived in Belarus in his older years.” In fact, he believes that the lute should be claimed as a Belarusian folk instrument. Zmicier also aims to promote bagpipe playing, which he views as an ancient Belarusian instrument, known under the original name of ‘duda’. “Some think it has existed since pre-Christian times,” he explains. “The duda was first mentioned in Old Belarusian literature in the 15th century; and was illustrated by the 16th century. The instrument didn’t change, keeping its original form and, by the 1920s, was considered to be the major national instrument in Belarus. Our duda players represented the USSR at international exhibitions in Paris and Munich: in 1926 and 1928. Until WWII, bagpipes were the

most commonly played instruments in Belarus. Expeditions and archives confirm that Belarusian duda players performed in villages even in the 1960s.” Now, mainly enthusiasts — like Zmicier — play the bagpipes; the dulcimer has taken over as the major national instrument. In fact, Mr. Sasnouski, having studied literary archives, believes the dulcimer appeared late in Belarusian musical history. “The dulcimer was first mentioned in Belarus in Concio Ruthena (17th-18th century). It came to Belarus via travelling foreign orchestras and only spread to Belarusian villages in the 19th century. It gained popularity gradually, jointly with the Russian harmonica — forcing the duda out,” explains Mr. Sasnouski. “The head of a choir performing Belarusian folk instrumental music — Iosif Zhinovich — considered the duda to be ‘capricious’ and difficult to play. As a result, he preferred the dulcimer, which became the major instrument of the Belarusian nation. Its authority was indisputable.” Of course, both the duda and dulcimer occupy a worthy place in Belarusian culture, stresses modern day musician and ethnographer Todor Kashkurevich.

Music

He sees the duda as ‘a man’s instrument, which awakens a call for action, while the dulcimer is a woman’s instrument which pacifies’. Mr. Sasnouski doesn’t just search for authentic Belarusian folk instruments. He believes that Belarusian music, being rich in history, has influenced the musical art of neighbours close and far. “Many composers of Belarusian origin have gained pan-European recognition, such as Michał Kleofas Ogiński, Stanisław Moniuszko, Napoleon Orda, Mieczysław Karłowicz and Czesław Niemen,” Zmicier smiles. Most of these masters are well-known in Poland. “Russian composers

education in Belarus while, in ancient times, Belarusian musicians worked in Poland, serving at the courts of kings Jagailo, Alexander, Sigismund I, Sigismund II and Sigismund III.” He continues, “Textbooks on the theory of music — by the Rector of Polotsk’s Collegium, Sigismund — were published in Mannheim, Cologne and Vienna. Belarusian folk melodies are found in the 9th Symphony of Ludwig van Beethoven, as well as in Frédéric Chopin’s Grand Fantasie and Modest Mussorgsky’s Boris Godunov opera. Moreover, Belarusian composers u s e d vo c a l c ycles long b e f o r e

Historic musicology is only taking its origins. Meanwhile, many famous Belarusian musicians made their names far abroad Pyotr Tchaikovsky and Nikolay RimskyKorsakov also used Belarusian folk melodies. Outstanding musicians, such as Fyodor Stravinsky (Igor Stravinsky’s father), Maria Guleghina and Irma Yaunzem, received their musical

the official launch of this genre by Beethoven. Maciej Radziwiłł’s polonaises are the earliest orchestral examples of this genre in Europe. Ogiński’s music inspired Joseph Haydn to compose his famous The

Creation while, eight years before Mozart wrote his Marriage of Figaro, Ogiński used a melody from the opera in his To Kasya. The first Faust opera was composed by Antoni Henryk Radziwiłł, in co-operation with Goethe. Giuseppe Verdi’s Rigoletto begins with a melody from the ‘devil dance’ of Mephistopheles, from Radziwiłł’s Faust. Radziwiłł used leitmotifs later adopted by Wagner in his operas.” There’s no doubt that these facts are impressive, especially taking when we realise that, until recently, no one studied the influence of Belarusian music worldwide. In fact, Belarusian music is hardly recognised around the globe. Historical musical studies are in their infancy in Belarus, although some Belarusian musicians have become known far beyond Belarus. Anna Meitschik, the daughter of a famous Minsk lawyer, has successfully performed at the New York Metropolitan Opera House, becoming a soloist at Milan’s La Scala and at Lisbon’s São Carlos National Theatre. Belarusian singer Mikhail Zabeida has gained recognition in Italy, the Czech Republic and Poland, while famous Belarusian violinist and composer Mikhail Yelsky has played in Poland and Germany. This year, Zmicier Sasnouski plans to publish another part of his ‘encyclopaedia’, detailing more little-known facts from our musical history. By Viktor Novak

2011 беларусь.belarus

Provincetradition In the Medieval Ages, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania — occupied by the territory of modern Belarus — was a European state holding equal rights. In the small town of Motol, in Brest region’s Ivanovo district, Belarusian, Polish, Italian, Latvian and Jewish cultures intermix in a unique fashion, recalling days of old. Original crafts, colourful local customs and a unique dialect remain almost unchanged

of gratitude, local residents named Motol’s main market square after her (it was re-named only in 1939, when the land was attached to the USSR). Motol people still tell stories about the famous Italian lady. Motol is also well known globally as the homeland of Israel’s first president, scientist-chemist Chaim Weizmann. Old timers remember where the

the close proximity of their homes often resulted in fires spreading. With this in mind, Motol residents jointly purchased equipment in St. Petersburg to produce roof tiles and hollow blocks to construct walls. Local residents are also known for their culinary skills, being able to cook unique meat and fish dishes. These were actively traded, with Motol’s central

Amazing beauties of Motol

otol’s history dates back many centuries, being first mentioned in the L it hu an i an me t r i c in 1422. However, it seems that the settlement was founded even earlier. One legend states that, in the mid-16th century, famous Belarusian historical figure Bona Sforza lived here. This highborn Italian, wife to Rzech Pospolita King and Grand Duke of Lithuania Sigismund I, liked this picturesque place, situated on the bend of the Yaselda River. Its people were tall, light haired craftsmen and merchants, who wore leather footwear rather than that of peasants and richly embroidered linen self-woven clothes. Under Queen Bona’s patronage, Motol received the Magdeburg Right in 1555 — 30 years earlier that the larger and older neighbouring city of Polotsk. Bona invited Italian craftsmen to Motol — primarily, land reclamation experts — to cultivate the local marshes. In fact, the three 500 year old drainage canals she built still function today. As a sign

беларусь.belarus 2011

spacious wooden house of his seemingly wealthy family was situated; it had eight rooms and two entrances. Chaim’s family owned the surrounding timber forests, with valuable timber sent along the rivers and canals to the central regions of Poland, the Baltic States, Germany and the Black Sea coast. Sadly, almost no Jews live in Motol these days, most having been killed by fascists during WWII. However, Israelis often visit the homeland of their forefathers; accordingly, the name of the town is also written in Hebrew on a road sign. Motol is primarily known for its craftsmen, with almost all residents claiming a link to some extent. It seems the local air is full of the spirit of entrepreneurship. Embroideresses, builders and flour millers (there were eight mills) abound. Crafts flourished in the 19-20th century, with bakers, for example, gaining recognition for their rolls (called ‘korzhik’ or a crunchy biscuit locally). Masters lived close to each other around the Korzhivka area, as it is still known today. Sadly,

square hosting wonderful fairs eight times a year. Buyers from neighbouring towns and villages, and those from further afield, attended. Today’s residents keep up their spiritual heritage, preserving their unique traditions, language and links with their native land — even when living far away: in Argentina or Australia. Many come to Motol for New Year, Christmas and Kolyady, to holiday in line with old folk customs. The Director of the Motol HistoricalFolklore Museum, Olga Matsukevich, met us on the eve of the holidays, to explain the culinary traditions of Motol residents. “I’ll tell you which dishes were cooked for Kolyady,” Olga begins, whetting our appetite. “As a fast precedes this folk holiday, sixteen dishes are cooked, including mushroom kvass, alongside fried, steamed, boiled and salt-cured fish, and sour cabbage with flax oil. On the morning after the fast, sausages and other meat products are prepared, following traditional recipes. Of course, mead always accompanies

Belta

Provincetradition

The ability to preserve traditions is a modern feature

the holiday, made from germinated grain. Tourists absolutely love it.” Motol’s residents pass on their tasty recipes from one generation to the next. The museum is home to a diploma given to a local resident — Mukha — for his achievements in sausage making, in the 1930s. His business is now run by his grandchildren. There are three such sausage making enterprises in Motol today, while three bakeries make their own bread, buns and pies, all to unique recipes.

with guests welcomed with a round loaf, served on an embroidered linen rushnik cloth. The fabric is even woven locally, being delicate, and semi-transparent, like silk. Some local people still have ancient knitting looms at home but this skill is gradually disappearing. Priceless hand-made pieces are now only taken carefully from old grandparents’ trunks for the most important holidays, such as weddings. Hand-made jackets decorated with bright

Today's residents keep up their spiritual heritage, preserving unique traditions, language and links with native land — even living in Argentina or Australia According to Ms. Matsukevich, every Motol home knows how to make its own bread, sausages and cheese. Tables are laid with wonderful linen tablecloths before dishes are served,

embroidery and traditional patterns are similarly precious and saved for special occasions. In days gone by, 12-13 craftsmen worked in Motol; in summer, they prepared sheep skins, ready for

them to be sewn into winter garments for villagers and guests. Some Motolborn Belarusians, returning to the village from Argentina, were extremely impressed by these local winter clothes. Of course, it’s not easy for local craftsmen to compete with factories, so hand-made leather jackets are now only seen at the local museum or worn by actors in the Motol Neighbours Folk Theatre. The famous local hand-made shoes are so strong that many local families wear them. Motol residents have no wish to part with their rich traditions, which are now celebrated in the local museum, featuring about 30,000 unique exhibits. Many have been donated by Motol residents, while staff have recorded local songs, proverbs and customs. Moreover, every year, Motol hosts Belarus’ only food festival: Motol Delicacies. It gathers hundreds of participants and many thousands of visitors. The tasty morsels are always accompanied by singing, dancing and laughter. By Vladimir Bibikov

2011 беларусь.belarus

Exhibitions

Wonderful world of dolls Gomel’s Rumyantsev-Paskevich Park and Palace Ensemble hosts Doll-Protectors exhibition

he rare collection has been donated by t h e mu s e u m i n t h e village of Strenki in Rogachev district, which has opened this autumn with support from the UNDP. The derelict building has been revamped to house the exhibits but the dolls appeared in Strenki long before. Several years ago, a local crafts centre began to collect

беларусь.belarus 2011

ancient stories on how, why and for whom dolls were made. In fact, some were created to protect homes, health, beauty, wealth and luck. “Protecting dolls had magical significance for our ancestors, serving as intermediaries between people and the other world,” explains Anastasia Povarich, a junior research officer at Gomel’s Rumyantsev-Paskevich Park and Palace Ensemble. “Childhood

began with dolls, which accompanied people throughout their life. It was thought that dolls resonated with spirituality and the creativity of generations past.” Most were made by women, who were the guardians of the household, protecting it from various destructive evils. They created dolls from early childhood by twisting, bending and tying, without needles or scissors. “Dolls were primarily made from unwanted scraps of fabric or natural materials,” continues Anastasia, leading me past museum displays. In fact, fabric scraps were thought to be imbued with the spiritual strength of the family, explains Anastasia, “It was believed that remnants of fabric contained an element of human life force, with energy passed from the doll to those who owned it.” Each doll was created without a definite face, to avoid evil intent settling within it, and could be made from natural materials such as twigs, straw, grass or flowers. Of course, our ancestors used to commonly lived in the forest, so tree twigs were often used for the doll’s body. Birch (long

Exhibitions considered to be a symbol of male power) protected family happiness, strengthening the Yang (male origin) of the family, ensuring prosperity and well-being. Meanwhile, aspen twigs were incorporated, to ward off evil spirits from the home. h i l d re n’s c onst r u ctions and toys were treated with respect, since they were t houg ht to p oss ess magic powers. Children’s games were thought to encourage positive energy, bringing a good harvest, wealth and happy marriages. If children spent enough time playing with dolls, there would be enough money in the house while, if children were careless with dolls, t rou b l e s m i g ht occur. ‘Pelenashki’ (swaddling) or ‘Kuvatki’ (relating to the ancient custom whereby a husband was put to

believed that such dolls protected the maidenhood of a girl, her beauty and youth. When a young girl was due to marry, a ‘Desyatiruchka’ doll (assistant with ten hands) was placed in her trunk with her dowry, to assist in household routines. Moreover, a ‘Nerazluchniki’ doll was also given: two dolls united with a common hand, ensuring that husband and wife remained always together. People couldn’t do without dolls in their household. A ‘Vezunchik’ doll was hung above the door to attract luck, while a ‘Domovichek’ doll depicted a house spirit from Slavic folklore, residing in its own corner. A doll with small baby dolls tied to it was secretly hidden, denoting prosperity, and it was completely forbidden for strangers to see it. Homes were also obliged to have a ‘Blagodat’ (godsend) doll (with raised

Rag dolls were created without a definite face to avoid evil intent settling in them, so they could not bring any harm bed while his wife gave birth) dolls are showcased at the museum. Two weeks before each birth, swaddling dolls were laid in the cradle to ‘warm’ it and were later used as toys and as talismans guarding the baby when left at home alone. As a girl grew older, she received a ‘Zhelannitsa’ doll, which would make dreams come true if a bead or ribbon was attached. The doll — the performer of the sacred wish — was hidden in a secret place. Young girls of marriageable age competed against each other with their ‘Vesnushki’ (freckle) dolls, which had extremely long braids of various colours and tones. It was

hands) and a ‘Kolokolchik’ doll, in a triple bell-shaped skirt, symbolising harmony of spirit, soul and body, bringing joy and good news. All these dolls were honoured in everyday life and during holidays, with new, stuffed, rag gifts made on the eve of great celebrations, to be presented on various occasions. It was customary for children to make dolls to give as gifts to adults, in thanks for receiving presents; in this way, children were taught to be thankful. It was also believed that, when making such dolls, children allocated part of their soul to them, while learning tenderness and kindness.

Folio’s new life Belarusian scientists to study Life of Yevfrosiniya Polotskaya via digital copy

he 16th century book is part of the Pogodin Collection, held by the Russian National Library in St. Petersburg. However, it has been copied by the Belarusian Exarchate Publishing House, at the request of scientists from the National Academy of Sciences. The Life of Yevfrosiniya Polotskaya is an outstanding monument to the ancient Eastern Slavonic written language, believed to have been written in the late 12th century in Polotsk. Over 180 Belarusian manuscripts from the 16th18th century are kept abroad (in Russia, Lithuania and Ukraine), making work with these ancient books difficult. “The electronic copy of the manuscript gives the opportunity for further study, by scientists and by anyone interested in our past and in our written legacy. It is a gift to all Orthodox believers in Belarus and a gift to Polotsk in particular, from where Yevfrosiniya Polotskaya — our duchess and mother superior — hailed,” notes Elvira Yermolenko, a senior research officer at the Yakub Kolas and Yanka Kupala Language and Literature Institute’s History Department of the National Academy of Sciences. The copy will allow all those wishing to familiarise themselves with the Life to do so. In future, this material can be used in creating an archive of Old Church Slavonic manuscripts, which were widely spread on the territory of ancient Belarus. Work has already begun, with the text of the 16th century Slutsk Gospel restored and its language studied.

By Violetta Dralyuk

2011 беларусь.belarus

Fates

Reproductions of works by Nadia Leger

Intriguing project

Nadia Léger’s life deserves to become the focus of a novel, being filled with talent, love and self-sacrifice. Her great granddaughter, Natalie Samoilova, has decided to write a book about her great grandmother with a different goal — to restore justice — not by a lust for literary fame but from a sense of what’s right

s. Samoilova recently travelled from France to Belarus to meet her relatives, to see Zembin (of which Nadia had often told her) and to visit the National Art Museum to discuss an exhibition of works by her great grandmother. Nadezhda Khodasevich-Léger would have celebrated her jubilee in 2012. “Nadia’s paintings remain littleknown because of her sacrifice, characteristic of all Slavonic women,” Natalie notes. “However, her picturesque portraits are unique and her mosaics are phenomenal; she boasted great talent, but lacked exposure. There’s a

беларусь.belarus 2011

wonderful museum of Fernand Léger, but no one has ever created a museum dedicated to Nadia Léger. My aim is to show the world my great grandmother’s achievements. It’s a great job, which I’m fulfilling with pleasure…” Natalie recalls her childhood, when her great grandmother took her to visit Marc Chagall. He asked five year old Natalie to dance, being keen to draw movement… However, Natalie most remembers Chagall’s eyes, which were similar to those of her great grandmother. The latter often urged her to try to achieve good in her life. Natalie still feels a great connection with her, although their

characters differ greatly, because of Natalie’s French mentality. Natalie spent the first ten years of her life in Moscow and speaks perfect Russian. Her grandfather is famous Soviet actor Yevgeny Samoilov, who played brilliant roles in Shchors, Bright Path and Six O’clock after the War is Over. Meanwhile, her aunt is the outstanding Tatiana Samoilova, who was awarded the Golden Palm at Cannes for her role in The Cranes Are Flying. Natalie herself is a pianist and art historian and now also a certified art manager. She’s currently creating a museum dedicated to Nadia Léger in Normandy, while also writing a book about her wonderful great grand-

Fates

Nadezhda Khodasevich was born in 1902 to a poor family with many children in Vitebsk province. The WW1 years left the Khodasevichs as vagabonds. At 15, Nadia left home to travel to Smolensk, where she entered the state pictorial workshops, meeting Kazimir Malevich. She painted continuously, using everything at hand. Later, she studied at Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts, being enrolled without examinations. There, Nadia fell in love with Stanislav Grabovsky, the son of a local state official. They were soon married, but her husband’s parents were far from satisfied with their union. However, the newly-weds were eager to build a

Soon you'll be able to get acquainted with Nadia Leger's creative work

In 1972, Nadia decided to donate her mosaics to the Soviet Union. However, the officials of that time couldn’t find an appropriate application for them. A railway carriage full of her mosaics stood for a long time in a siding. Finally, they were distributed between Soviet museums and an exhibit ion was organis e d in Dubna, near Moscow. Some of her pieces remained there and were eventually placed along the city’s avenues, outside. This decision surprised her but she did nothing to try to protect her artworks. She didn’t question why only some of her donated reproductions arrived in Zembin, where her parents spent t h e i r l a s t d ay s . We’ll never learn t he answers to these questions, as Nadia died in 1982… By Irina Petrovskaya

Ruzhechka

Generous talent

life together, following their own path. They wrote a letter to the outstanding French avant-garde painter, Fernand Léger, asking him to accept them as his pupils. It may seem strange but the great master agreed… In 1927, Nadia gave birth to her daughter, Wanda, but this didn’t hamper her creative activities. On the contrary, her talent began to reveal itself via graphical art, mosaic and painting. She soon became Fernand Léger’s assistant and began to teach at his studio, while publishing magazines about art. When WW2 broke, Léger offered to take her to America, since Nadia’s marriage had ended by that time. It seemed she had nothing to lose but she refused, remaining in occupied France and joining the French Resistance, helping partisans and Soviet prisoners-of-war. When the war finished, Léger returned and, despite their significant difference in age, asked Nadia to marry him. In his diaries, he wrote, ‘Previously, only art existed for me. Women were merely for pleasure. I lived to seventy years before falling in love for the first time’. They wed but Nadia never managed to bring him to her remote homeland, as she had promised; Fernand died three years later… Nadezhda Khodasevich-Léger remained faithful to his genius and created the Fe rnand Léger Museum in the south of France, jointly with Georges Bauquier — her long time admirer, who was desperately in love with her. Nadia became a frequent visitor to the USSR; she organised Léger’s exhibitions in Moscow while introducing Soviet painters to Paris.

Al ex ander

mother. She is preparing an exhibition of her works for Paris, later to tour Moscow and Minsk, and is eager to showcase every unique picture and mosaic. Her first challenge is to find them. “Nadia donated 72 of her mosaics to the Soviet Union,” Natalie continues. “To find their present location, I wrote a letter to the Russian Culture Ministry and discovered that 11 or 12 were known to be in Dubna, 3 in Moscow and 6 in Belarus. Where are the rest? If anyone knows anything, please contact me….” Natalie wishes to display not only Nadia Léger’s works which were left in France, but also those donated to the USSR. The latter are rarely seen, sadly. For instance, the National Art Museum does possess several pieces by Nadezhda Khodasevich-Léger, yet they aren’t on show in the permanent exposition. Natalie believes she’ll manage to organise a worthy exhibition (she went to Moscow immediately after Minsk) despite her work on her book taking so much time. Publisher Aymar du Châtenet, who is accompanying Natalie on her trip, promises that the book about Nadia Léger will be released in French, English and Russian. “This project intrigues me,” admits Aymar. “I fell in love with Nadia Léger’s pictures at first sight. It’s amazing that her creativity is almost unknown.”

2011 беларусь.belarus

Photoaspect

he w i n ne r of Nat iona l G e o g r a p h i c ’s M o s t Amazing Moments contest has inherited his passion f rom his father. In his childhood, they would spend evenings developing black-and-white film together, printing photos. On seeing the boy’s interest in photography, Oleg’s father bought him a ‘Smena’ camera, when he was just 9 years old. Since then, Oleg, now 38, has been establishing himself as a photographer. “The camera allows me to feel the moment more d e e p l y ,” h e admits. “Each time I click the shutter, I feel closer

may be one of the reasons why the jury chose my work.” As a rule, Oleg tends to plan each shot, perhaps waking early, before dawn, to catch the right light or weather conditions. If the sun disappears or rain begins, it can spoil ever ything. He once spent several days waiting for a particular shot of an ancient temple complex in Cambodia. Oleg believes that sunrise and sunset are the best times for taking photos. Accordingly, he always takes his camera when going for an evening or morning run. Most of his photos have been taken in Asia, where Oleg often travels. “People who think in the Eastern way are less affected by globalisation,” Oleg muses. “Moreover, Eastern countries

climber back to safety. However, the Asian mountains seem well-disposed towards the traveller, having allowed him to enjoy their beauty. Oleg’s shots of these amazing, almost unexplored, places take your breath away. The photographer admits that not all residents of foreign countries agree to have their photo taken, so he always asks for permission. The most interesting shots are those taken when he participates in the activities of local people, helping fishermen with a catch or shepherds to round up their flock. O l e g b e l i e v e s t h at i t’s m o s t difficult to take pictures high in the mountains, where the temperature can drop to 30 degrees and there is always the danger of falling. His

Magic of best shot Photographer Oleg Gritskevich climbs mountains for desired shot to this moment. B efore making a shot, I tr y to see it as it would appear on paper.” Oleg read about National G e o g r a p h i c ’s M o s t A m a z i n g Moments contest from a Belarusian photo website, one day before its deadline. He sent in several photos online and, from over 2,000 entries, the jury chose his Overflow of Holy Wate r s . It s e e ms i mp o s s i bl e t o discern at first sight, with computer graphics surely playing a role, but it actually shows the top of a Hindu temple barely above the waterline during a flood. It was taken from a hotel balcony in Indian Varanasi. “I wanted it to inspire wonder in t hos e w ho s aw it, since it’s not immediately apparent what’s being depicted,” Oleg smiles. “I think this

беларусь.belarus 2011

boast a mild, tropical climate, with high mountains and wild beaches. In addition, some of Asia’s communities have remained as they were 500 years ago, with little changing in their lifestyle or architecture.” Oleg tries to travel ‘off the beaten track’, since he finds it more interesting to climb an unknown 5,000m mountain peak than to walk welltrodden routes. He has never been to the Egyptian pyramids or Everest but has climbed Elbrus alone, discovering the wild Tibetan mountains, walking where others have not. According to Oleg, it’s impossible to conquer a mountain’s peak, since nature is always stronger than man. Each summit can only be stood upon momentarily, before the mountain reclaims its supremacy and drives the

camera can fail to work at such low temperatures, so must be kept beneath his coat. Meanwhile, it’s tricky to arrange shots when wearing three-layered gloves! However, Oleg is ready to take risks to capture a desired shot. The passionate photographer now avoids shooting Tibet’s ritual burial places, such as the ‘sky burial’ site, high in the mountains, where the bodies of the dead are left for vultures and eagles. Oleg tried to take a shot, which resulted in his camera immediately failing to work; strangely, it was somehow damaged beyond repair. Oleg always returns from his travels with many photos; his collection now numbers about 12,000. He’s in no hurry to organise a personal

Photoaspect

Winners remain forever Copies of unique photos showcased at Minsk exhibition

Photo mosaic by Oleg Gritskevich

show though, saying, “Some photos are like wine: the older they are, the more valuable. They must mature for some time, before going on show.”

he State Historical Museum of Russia has provided the Belarusian State Museum of Great Patriotic War History with copies of unique photos for the Winners exhibition, which recently opened in Minsk. Academic Secretary Galina B a bu s e n k o, of t he B elar usian museum, tells us that the exhibition features a copy of the Order of the British Empire, as presented by British King George VI to Belarusian-born soldier Vasily Sokolovsky. Others include the telegram sent to Moscow following the Nazis’ surrender, and the USSR Marshal Ivan Konev’s journal entries from early May 1945. Another provides a visual record of Potsdam’s seizure. Ms. Babusenko explains, “About 200 — of the 142,000 documents — are personal records of the Victory Parade participants; these show that Belarusians took part in military action and participated in the parade.” Among the exhibits on show are some personal belongings of Soviet Union Hero Vasily Kozlov. Meanwhile, a service coat, ammunition and documents owned by Grodno-born Alexey Antonov (a General and an active participant in the Victory Parade’s organisation) are on display, alongside a copy of the Flag of Victory, military standards and trophy flags. The Victory Parade crowned the war and was among the brightest events of the 20th century. Winners ends the Victory Parade of June 24th, 1945 project — which honours the memory of WW2 veterans. Sadly, their number falls annually.

By Marina Bruyakovskaya

2011 беларусь.belarus

Artimpressions

Labyrinth of creative acquaintances Walking through the halls of the National Art Museum of Belarus, we can penetrate deeply into the wonderful world of pictorial art, however remote in time

A piece of work by Ferdynand Ruszczyc

беларусь.belarus 2011

ven an experienced t r ave l l e r c an l o s e themselves, let alone a novice, so it’s better to rely on a guide. Let’s take an imaginary tour of the country’s main treasury of culture: the National Art Museum of Belarus. However, I won’t overload you with too many facts. The museum is rich in artworks of both national and international importance. It’s impossible to see everything in one trip, of course, so we’ll just view a small selection of items. No doubt, you’ll want to return another time, to enjoy its exhibition premieres. On show at the moment is a picture dedicated to the 140th anniversary of the birth of Ferdynand Ruszczyc (1870-1936). This landscape painter, graphical artist, set designer and teacher left his legacy on the arts and cultural life of Belarus, Poland and Lithuania. Moreover, he was acknowledged throughout Russia and Europe. Ferdynand Ruszczyc was born to a noble family in 1870, on his family estate of Bogdanov in Oshmyany district of Vilnya province (now, Bogdanovo village in Volozhin district of Minsk region). He spent his childhood and teenage years at a local classical gymnasium, graduating in 1890 with a gold medal. Simultaneously, he took painting lessons from artist Kuzma Yermakov. Later, Ruszczyc trained at St. Petersburg’s Academy of Arts, taught first by Ivan Shishkin. From 1895, Ruszczyc studied at Arkhip Kuindzhi’s studio, known for nurturing a whole constellation of talented pupils: Arkady Rylov, Nicholas Roerich, Vilhelms Purvītis and Konstantin Vrublevsky. In 1897, the young painter successfully joined the diploma exhibition, with his Spring bought by famous Russian collector Pavel Tretyakov, for his personal collection. Another collector — Savva Morozov — bought his Mill in Winter, enabling Ferdynand to travel through Western Europe. Over a period

Artur Prupas

Artimpressions

Surprised by the beauty

of two months, he visited Germany, France, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland and Italy. The blossoming of Ruszczyc’s creative career is connected with his return to his family estate, after graduating from the Academy. The years he spent in Bogdanov are considered to be the most fruitful of his career. In 1898, Ruszczyc began to work on one of his most prominent canvases, Earth, now held by the National Museum in Warsaw. Many other wonderful pictures, such as Last Snow, Ballad, Krewa Castle, Mill, Vileika Banks and Forest Stream, were created during those years, celebrating the beauty of Belarusian nature. His Near the Catholic Church: Sunday, on show at the National Art Museum of Belarus, was also created in Bogdanov in 1899. The artist painted the local church many times, depicting it from various angles. St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church is a wonderful example of Belarusian wooden architecture from the second half of the 17th century. Unfortunately, it burnt down during WWII. Jan Bułhak, Ruszczyc’s friend, took photos of the beautiful building. Ruszczyc’s painting shows a warm spring day uniting earth, people and heaven. A bright blue sky sends warm sunbeams across

the church, creating an atmosphere of love and delight. The ancient narthex appears to grow from the soil, with the crooked figures of old women entering its doorway, witnessed by the ancient church. Old men stand quietly some distance away, observing the wonder of returned spring and awakening nature. Ruszczyc’s canvases were exhibited many times in St. Petersburg, Moscow, Warsaw, Vilnya and Paris. In 1921, he was awarded the National Order of the Legion of Honour for his contribution to culture and critics noted his exceptional talent as a colourist. Contemporary art historians have deservedly called him a ‘master of four elements’. Alongside success in monumental painting, Ruszczyc became known as a brilliant set designer and book and magazine illustrator, while designing medals, banners, theatrical costumes and playbills. Vilnya’s cultural life in the 1910-1920s would not have been the same without Ruszczyc; his contribution was huge. Moreover, our fellow countryman chaired the Commission for the Protection of Ancient Monuments. He travelled throughout Belarus, sketching our ancient castles and ruins. Ruszczyc is also remembered as a wonderful teacher, having taught at the Fine Arts School in Warsaw and at

the Academy of Fine Arts in Kraków. He helped revive Vilnya University before dying on October 30th, 1936, in Bogdanov. He is buried at the local cemetery. Today, his pictures grace museums in Poland, Lithuania and Russia, as well as European and American collections, including those held by private individuals. Belarus owns only one canvas by Ferdynand Ruszczyc but it is worthily displayed at the National Art Museum of Belarus; how could it be otherwise? hinking of 19thearly 20th century Russian pictorial art, the National Art Museum of Belarus is considered to be the richest treasury of works by Russian a r t i s t s , s h ow casing many world famous masters. Undoubtedly, the exhibition on show at the moment is wonderfully diverse. Genre painting has long been mistrusted by art critics. In 1863, young Russian artists, headed by Ivan Kramskoy, broke with St. Petersburg’s Academy of Art in the ‘Revolt of Fourteen’; they fought for their right

2011 беларусь.belarus

Artimpressions Undoubtedly, the exhibition is interesting, with Russian genre painting from 19th — early 20th century surprising us in its breadth. It tackles the most substantial aspect of our lives, exploring not only the idea of the Russian village and ‘peasant’ issues, but life in cities and the army, exploring the psyche of the most humble men to officials and the intelligentsia

to independently choose their themes and for the acknowledgement of genre painting. “Aren’t genre painters artists?” one rebel asked of the Head of the Academy, Fiodor Bruni. Their confidence in genre painting was vividly proven by the subsequent development of Russian art. In the 18th century, genre works were a rare

беларусь.belarus 2011

Social painting is interesting

exception but they became a leading trend from the mid-19th century. Genre painting fulfils a ver y important function in art, realistically portraying everyday life, allowing us to ponder our lives and view them from ‘outside’. Many Russian genre painters preferred topical issues, making ordinary people their major characters,

through whom the artists speak. This explains why genre painting usually blossoms during times of change, when less advantaged citizens take their destiny into their own hands. Undoubtedly, the exhibition is interesting, with Russian genre painting from the late 19th-early 20th century surprising us in its breadth. It tackles the most substantial aspects of our lives, exploring not only the idea of the Russian village and ‘peasant’ issues, but life in cities and the army, exploring the psyche of the most humble men to officials and the intelligentsia. The legacy and traditions of Alexey Venetsianov’s idealistic painting are vividly felt in many works from the early to mid 19th century: Fiodor Baikov’s Peasant Yard, Lavr Plakhov’s Old Man and a Girl and Alexey Korzukhin’s Father’s Directions. Later Russian painters quickly moved to a sharply critical view of reality, bringing unprecedented tension into genre painting, while adding a clearly aggressive, even offensive, character: Pavel Yakovlev’s After Hail Damage (1894); Klavdy Lebedev’s Poor (1905); Karl Lemoch’s Inconsolable Grief (1900s) and Fiodor Bukhgolts’s Unemployment: Grief (1906). Some offer a softer tonality in portraying social reality: Nikolay Nevrev’s Confession (late 1860s-early 1870s); Vasily Maximov’s Children Playing as Adults (1874) and Karl Lemoch’s Hide-and-Seek (1879). Works by Vladimir Makovsky — Doctor’s Waiting Room (1869), Hair Cutting: Volzhsky Figaro (1897) and Interview (1903) — are characterised by soft humour and delicate psychology. With distinguished gestures and poses and expressive faces, Makovsky created a whole gallery of clearly depicted social characters. The genre painters of the 1880-1890s aimed to reveal a person’s character and individual psychology by showing them in everyday situations: Nikolay Kasatkin (Organgrinder, 1881); Konstantin Makovsky (The Blind, 1880s); Firs Zhuravlev (At Penman’s, 1889); and Nikolay Nevrev (Proposal, late 1880s-early 1890s).

Artur Prupas

Artimpressions

No doubt, we’ll return to the museum another time, for more enchanting moments. To view all that it has to offer, you’d perhaps need a whole year. The museum boasts so many wonderful exhibits, created by talented masters

lots and literary narratives are another feature of this period, on ly d is c on tinued towards the turn of the century, when artists of the new generation began to focus on lyrical interpretations, primarily accentuating land-

scapes. Works by Alexey Stepanov (Cranes Are Flying, 1891), Nikolay Dubovsky (Rainbow, 1892), Nikolay B o gd an ov - B e l s k y ( At Fe r r i a ge , 1915), Sergey Svetoslavsky (At the Watering Place), Semen Nikiforov (Trade Fair, 1910), Stepan Kolesnikov (Genre Scene, 1910s) and Alexander Moravov (Men, 1910s) delight us with their beautiful use of colour and light. Their free, original compositions are evidence of their fresh outlook.

Undoubtedly, the turn of the 19th20th century and the first decades of the 20th century were a time of great change for Russia (to which a considerable part of contemporary Belarus was joined). The traditions of the past, formed over centuries, were being cast aside, replaced by a new social scene, as the artists felt acutely. Many tried to capture this spirit while showing nostalgia for what was being left behind. Boris Kustodiev’s love for the patriarchal merchant world of the Russian provinces is evident; Bathers (1917) and Scene at the Window (1921) are notable for their enhanced detail and unique combination of idealism and irony. Andrey Ryabushkin enjoyed a similarly cheerful view of Russian life, with national identity at the forefront of his works (What Kvas!, 1892). The excitement of living was explored by Abram Arkhipov in his powerful canvases (Young Peasant Woman in Red, 1925 and Smiling Young Girl, 1920s) which celebrate the spirit, physical and moral health of the nation. Works by Nikolay Kuznetsov (Café in the Evening. Riga Seaside, 1913) and Alexander Moravov’s Good Read (1913-1914) show us the city and the world of the intelligentsia in an elevated, poetic fashion. Iosif Braza’s Recollection (1901) stands out in its delicate artistry, previously unknown in genre painting. The exhibition is fascinating and richly diverse, giving us a true sense of fulfilment. Now, our cup is full and no more is needed. We have much to ponder and return to in our memories. Peruse these photo illustrations, dear readers, to see the artistic wealth on show. No doubt, we’ll return to the museum another time, for more enchanting moments. To view all that it has to offer, you’d perhaps need a whole year. The museum boasts so many wonderful exhibits, created by talented masters. By Victor Kharkov

2011 беларусь.belarus

Theatrename Maxim Sokhar is a recent alumnus of the Academy of Arts; he is not yet 30 but is already the chief director at Bobruisk-based Mogilev Regional Drama and Comedy Theatre (named after Vincent Martinkevich). The Maxim Gorky National Academic Drama Theatre staged his I Believe in Horoscopes (based on fashionable Belarusian playwright Andrey Karelin’s work) while he was a student of the Director’s Department. His monologues are wonderful

Maxim Sokhar:

‘Directorship

Ivan Zhdanovich

ver the past year in Bobruisk, Maxim has been mastering his new position, gaining acquaintance with actors and the life of the theatre, while staging new performances. He loves the city and, naturally, the theatre itself, which was established during WWI. The theatre, in turn, has ‘accepted’ its new chief director and now loves him. I listened in admiration as he chatted with actors and critics after Nero’s premiere, which was recognised as a landmark event for the theatre and the city of Bobruisk alike. Much has been spoken of Maxim’s youth, his search for his own style and, naturally, his talent. Youth and talent are the best allies for a director; we can only guess at what performances Maxim might stage over the next two decades. He is keen to look to the future, saying with humour and anticipation, “My

беларусь.belarus 2011

future actors may have only just been born. By the time they are grown up and graduated from the Academy, I’ll be old, grey-haired and experienced. They’ll come to visit me at the theatre and I’ll start ‘creating’ the actors I wish them to be. I’ll have experience by then, while they will be young and able to learn something new. We’ll create something wonderful and I’ll then sit with the audience to admire my actors.” Here, we chat about future dreams and the present, covering much more than his recent directorship. You studied in the Czech Republic in your early years. Did it impress you? I can talk a great deal about the Czech Republic’s small towns and love Prague, where I studied, at the Russian Embassy School. I also adore Nimburg, where my family lived. Every day, we went to Prague with my father, who lectured at Charles University. Nimburg is similar to small towns in France and Germany (which I’ve also visited) in having an ‘old Europe’ atmosphere. As a child, I saw this while watching films; it’s difficult to describe but the architecture and smells are special. People greet each other as our Belarusians do in the countryside and you can cycle from one village to the next. You know your baker and can talk to the chef in a cosy cafe about the weather or praise a flower seller’s bouquet. You pass them everyday. I search for this atmosphere everywhere. Have you found this in Bobruisk? Yes. I feel its breath here. Bobruisk has a European atmosphere, despite

Theatrename being a large city, which I admire. The centre has a unique micro-world, with a church, theatre and small cafés. On my way to the theatre, I greet people and stop for a cup of coffee. There are many different comfortable cafés here. I love the city in winter, especially at New Year

skinny and the wife short with an oldfashioned fur hat. The man was wearing a thick woollen coat, with rather tight trousers which hardly covered his ankles so that his wool socks were visible beneath — probably knitted by his wife. He had a peaked cap — and what a cap it was! The

has chosen me’ and Christmas, when it seems to be from a fairytale. Illumination is everywhere and people are so cheerful, hurrying home with food or a fir-tree. Europe has a slightly different rhythm. When I walk through the city, I think: ‘this is my Europe’. This is one of the reasons why Bobruisk is close to my soul. Bobruisk residents say they’re proud to see so many young people from Minsk coming to Bobruisk at weekends… It’s true. I’ve asked them what attracts them to Bobruisk and people tend to say that they like the town’s European atmosphere! Some even say that Bobruisk smells like Europe, with the scent of old chimneys, cleaned only by sweeps. One girl asked me if any still existed in Bobruisk and I had to admit that I’ve never met a chimneysweep in town. However, I agreed that it has a very peculiar scent, like that of smoke. Nevertheless, the town is always thoroughly clean, even in the suburbs, which have neat rubbish bins everywhere. The beaver image (the symbol of Bobruisk) is painted on fences and various signs. Is it true that Bobruisk still has the spirit of a former Jewish town? Absolutely! By virtue of my profession, I like watching people. You often hear people saying that they are Bobruiskers, meaning that they’ve concluded some business. Actually, I think that classical Jews are only found in Bobruisk these days; it’s as if they’ve come down from a film screen. Recently, I met a married couple, where the husband was tall and

entire appearance of this couple testified to them being native Bobruisk residents. Moreover, they held each others’ hands tenderly! I’ve never met such a couple, looking like Sholem Aleichem’s characters, in Minsk… Do people like theatre in Bobruisk? They love it and I have to admit that our audiences are very patriotic. For example, when a visiting theatre comes on tour to our town, after the performance, you may hear that the actors were good, but people assert that the Bobruisk troupe is better! Different companies come here on tour, sometimes more professional than ours, sometimes with more expensive sets, but Bobruiskers say that ours are the best. Our sweet ticket collectors always ask visitors if they liked the play at the end of the perform-

admired a professor who taught us art history. As a school student from the postSoviet region, I was impressed by his ‘free’ lessons, encouraging us to feel relaxed, like his friends. He spoke passionately about commonplace things, making time fly by. Now, as a director, I also have to ‘teach’ others. I’ve adopted a lot of the Pan Svoboda (freedom) method, as actors are just like children, who can’t be forced to love something against their will. During his lessons, we watched feature films, for later discussion. I recollect, for instance, watching ‘Kolja’ by Zdeněk Svěrák, about a talented musician who wins an ‘Oscar’. The film subtly demonstrates how antagonism between two people — a grownup musician and a five-year-old boy — transforms into true love. At that time, the film impressed me so much that I, a sceptic of 15, experienced a change of heart, fundamentally altering my view of myself and of my life. I realised that life can be more easily scrutinised. I began observing my surroundings, noting not only outer events, but trying to understand people’s motivations. Of course, I had my own activities, but I began developing my new talent — as an observer. This film and my teacher inspired me to become a film director, which requires me to be a psychologist, who can explain what he sees. It requires constant analysis of plays, searching for the motives

I’m not afraid of developing someone else’s talent. We need such people. I’m looking forward to the June graduation at the Academy of Art’s Theatre Department. I retain the firm belief that the theatre has a promising future as does my native drama theatre in Bobruisk ance; as the saying goes, theatre begins with the wardrobe. Maxim, how did you find yourself in stage direction? Everything began in the Czech Republic. When studying in Prague, I

behind characters’ actions. We compare them and create biographies for them. Sometimes, I believe that it is the art of direction that has chosen me. When I studied at the Academy of Arts, one of the respected directors from the Kupala

2011 беларусь.belarus

Theatrename Theatre (the Yanka Kupala National Academic Theatre), Alexander Gartsuev, told me: ‘You will be a good director’. At the time, I wasn’t so sure. My personal relationship with Gartsuev wasn’t an easy one, as we sometimes quarrelled. He was always very demanding of me, which offended me on occasion. I kept wondering why he seemed to find fault with me but his belief in me came true. Did your father influence your professional choice? Of course! He’s a well-known theatre critic and playwright and a former actor with the Kupala Theatre. Since my

quite healthy, can play the guitar, can sing decently and know how to draw. Which character traits do you consider best? Putting away false modesty, I believe I have the perfect genetic combination. If I have to achieve something, I can be determined, while remaining gentle and emotionally open. This is invaluable, since a director can’t produce a performance if they aren’t emotionally available. How quickly do you feel ownership of a play, knowing how to stage it? Usually, I experience creative animation and joy, seeing the perfor-

Bobruisk has a European atmosphere, despite being a large city, which I admire. The centre has a unique micro-world, with a church, theatre and small cafes childhood, I’ve gone to the theatre. My favourite is the Maxim Gorky National Academic Drama Theatre. We visited it many times, living close by. After performances, I’d go behind the scenes. Of course, I saw that the actors were different in real life to how they were on stage; this magical, theatrical transformation impressed me. It’s no secret that a director’s job is filled with emotional tension. How do you avoid stress? With the help of my wife, children and parents. I’m still in love with my wife, while my three children are always good for me. They help me to overcome stress and act as pain-relievers as soon as I come home. My sons usually meet me with great joy; the smile of my youngest daughter, Masha, is so healing. Often, I look for advice or good conversation from my parents. I’m very lucky, being brought up in an atmosphere of love and respect. All problems were peacefully discussed. Undoubtedly, my upbringing was democratic, although this doesn’t mean that I was never forced to do anything. On the contrary, my parents ignored my ‘I don’t want to’ and said ‘you have to’. This referred to music classes, painting lessons and to eating proper food. As a result, I’m

беларусь.belarus 2011

mance as soon as I read the script. If I don’t see it, I don’t take on the play. Naturally, there are situations when you have to stage a particular play which is not to your liking. In such cases, I use the methods of Stanislavsky. Of course, there is the risk that the final production will have no soul, and will lack special appeal. The same applies to children: I’m sure that happy children are born from happy marriages. If there is no affection between the director and the play, the children may be well-brought-up, but won’t be geniuses. In your view, why is Stanislavsky considered to be the genius of the theatre world? He was a real genius of theatre theory, gathering the best of the art of acting and directing. He systematised all this knowledge into a single system, which is faultless. If you strictly follow it, you can stage anything. Some plays will be better than others though; it’s natural in art. Which directors do you look up to? For me, every stage director is an authority, provided he is a professional. I respect my colleagues and always rejoice in their successes. I try to learn

something from each of their plays. You can learn a lot this way. Which school of stage direction is your favourite? What about the Belarusian school? Belarusian stage direction is full of people, especially younger members, who want to ‘reinvent the wheel’. We keep doing this, but all things new are derived from what has gone before. Jerzy Grotowski, a great visionary of stage art, believed that, although there were no new words, the way they were used could be reinterpreted. The profession of stage directing is called a spiritual craft, since we create a show from the bare bones of words. In my view, it’s wrong to boast that you are doing something new, since there are no new Americas to be discovered. It’s important to approach your profession with honesty. Of course, you can use various modern special effects, but they can’t replace the performance: it would be very unprofessional. It’s also wrong to jump on a fashionable bandwagon. For instance, many theatres took up Bulgakov’s ‘Master and Margarita’ immediately after it was shown on TV. Theatre should be above such trends, with its own style. Have you managed to find your own style? I’m not confident enough to say so, as I’m a young director. I’ve staged a few pieces and must leave the audience to judge. How do you view criticism? I believe there’s a difference between criticism and petty nitpicking. Criticism is objective and relevant, especially when fresh eyes are used. The play is usually born from torture, since it must become part of you. You want to preserve every detail, although some aspects may be unsuitable, and this can lead to lack of focus. If somebody tells me how to make it clearer, simpler or better, I always follow their advice. This is the kind of criticism I like. If it’s relevant, then it’s useful. I’d like all criticism to be kind and constructive. Some critics seem to only desire to ‘pull apart’ a play, leading to a biased view. Incidentally, it makes actors feel uncomfortable when they

Theatrename know a member of the audience has this objective in mind. Do you know how to make actors feel relaxed? I’ve seen such situations, where the actor enters the stage in confusion. Primarily, this is the director’s fault, since it is his responsibility to make the actor feel relaxed, in an atmosphere of trust. A director must show that they know what they are doing and to what end. I spend a lot of time explaining to actors that their eyes are the most expressive tool in the theatre. Audiences can see your eyes for at least the first ten rows. You can choose one audience member to ‘speak’ to, choosing someone who looks sympathetic. It will appear as if you are speaking to everyone in the stalls as a result. Have you tr ied stage ac ting yourself?

The music attunes the entire theatre machine to the audience. Let’s put it this way: music is the soul, sets are the house in which this soul lives. Absolutely, a play cannot be interesting if any element is lacking. Sets play an important role. If the actors play their parts well and the music is wonderful, yet the sets and lighting are bad, this creates a fly in the ointment, which can spoil everything. I’m pleased to say that, when working on ‘Nero’ for the first time, I managed to reach a ‘consensus’ with the theatre art director. I totally accepted his work. As far as the composer was concerned, everything was easy. He is a wonderful friend of mine and took on board my expectations regarding the music and the play. In

There was time when I felt utter panic in front of an audience, I was afraid to say something wrong. My uncertainty brought on excessive internal trembling. I had to contain my fears and force myself to go on stage, catching the audience’s attention and making viewers believe in me. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be able to tell actors what they have to do. It s e e m s l i k e p s y ch o l o g i c al training… It was groundwork for my directing future; I use my own experience of overcoming stage fright to teach others. Which element of performance do you prefer: music, sets or acting? I can’t say, since all are important. If the music is suitable, the acting is better and audiences feel more connected.

such a situation, it’s an absolute joy to work. Do you plan to show your new play, Nero, in Minsk? We have plans, but it will take more than a day to fulfil them. The play isn’t yet ready to be shown to the capital’s audience, although it is growing in strength. We’re constantly changing something. When I feel that it’s ready, we’ll definitely bring it to Minsk. What can we expect from you in the near future? We have plenty of i d e a s . I’m t h e c h i e f

director, and there are other directors under my management, whom I have to consider. I try to develop our production plan to use their creative abilities. Also, we study audience expectations. For more than a year, I’ve been thinking about Ken Kesey’s ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’. We have all the required actors but I can’t picture it in my head. I have to admit that the material is fascinating. Also, my plans include ‘The Broken Nest’ — a Belarusian classical play by Yanka Kupala. I’ve heard that you are studying for a post-graduate degree. Even after having completed my master’s degree, I am doing this with pleasure. My thesis is called ‘Theatre Education in Belarus: Stage Director Training Problems’. I believe the issue is interesting not only for myself, but for the entire theatre community. Every year, the Academy of Arts graduates a certain number of theatre producers. You can’t help feeling as if they are birds being released from a cage, who suddenly disappear. Where do these powerful creative directors go to? The future of our theatre depends upon them and I’d like to hire one: daring and young, with sparkling eyes. I’m not afraid of developing someone else’s talent. We need s u c h p e o p l e . I ’m looking forward to the June graduation at the Academy of Arts’ Theatre Department. I retain the firm belief that the theatre has a promising future, as does my native drama theatre in Bobruisk. Beaver — the

symbol of the town

By Valentina Zhdanovich

2011 беларусь.belarus

Mediapersons

True role Sasha Pavlova is most outspoken TV figure

ot so long ago, she was known as Olga Urashova — the most popular model in Holland. She graced a Playboy cover but then changed her name to Sasha Pavlova, a sincere host for Belarusian ONT TV channel. Sasha isn’t backward in explaining her goals in life and is unafraid of anything. Audiences love her for this but what’s her true personality? Sasha reveals what really makes her tick. Why did you change your name from Olga? Olya is my real name but I’ve always loved the name Alexandra. My parents told me that they initially wanted to give me this name. Meanwhile, Pavlova is my mother’s family name.

You easily travel from one country to another, such as from Holland to Belarus.

What’s your next destination? I f y o u’r e t o o focused on a single place, it can be a problem, but travel opens your mind. You see new people and places, getting memories you

 Since autumn 2009, Sasha Pavlova has hosted the Musical Court programme on ONT TV channel, where judges chose a song for Eurovision. Sasha studied at the Belarusian State University’s International Relations Department. Later, she lived in Holland for eight years, where she graduated from a media-college (with the speciality of being a host and producer). Sasha worked as a model and hosted TV programmes, participating in the Dutch Our Morning show, soap operas and TV commercials. She even won the Expeditie Robinson show in Holland. At present, Sasha hosts What Do Women Want? on ONT radio, devoted to relationship issues, which she hosts in her own candid and easy manner. Her portfolio is available at http://olga-urashova.com

беларусь.belarus 2011

remember into your old age. I was born in Siberia. My father was a military man and we travelled through various republics. I never heard pure Russian so, even now, I have a strange accent. I thought it was Dutch… I’ve been told it’s a Baltic accent. With my father, we visited the Baltic States and the Caucasus. Why did you leave for Holland? I was 20 at the time and felt I’d enjoy living in Western Europe. We always think the grass is greener on the other side. I began from scratch in

Holland, quickly learning Dutch. While studying, I worked part time job at a restaurant, a café and a sports school. I cleaned offices and shops, vacuuming floors. It was terrible, waking up at 4am to go and clean. I even cried from loneliness and hopelessness… How did you become a TV star? I was prompted. I was told, “Being Belarusian is rather exotic. Why don’t you register with a casting bureau?” I then began receiving invitations to take part in crowd scenes and in advertising underwear. How did you appear on the cover of Playboy? I’ve always loved this magazine. In Minsk (before going to Holland), I leafed through, viewing the models as goddesses. I could hardly dream of becoming one of them; they were so beautiful and unattainable. ‘Playboy’ is a worthy magazine. It’s pleasant to participate in its projects and look at yourself from outside. It’s nice to be

Style treated like a princess, with a team of top level makeup artists and globally known photographers working with you. Afterwards, weren’t you perceived only as a sex object? What about intellect? ‘Playboy’ isn’t an erotic edition: it’s a beautiful, glossy magazine for men. Should I proclaim that I’m clever? I won’t do this. Those who wish to see my intellect, will do so. If you wish to see me as a silly blonde, I’m not concerned. I won’t adapt for anyone. I’m not a natural blonde. I do agree that blondes tend to be ‘simple’; it’s a role which they successfully perform, since it makes life easier. People treat you more gently, while you treat yourself in the same way. Generally, Belarusians are very modest. Everything is polite and well organised here. Being a clever beauty, you’re lonely, without a man. Why? Perhaps because I’m not beautiful or clever enough! Seriously, I’ve not had time to meet a good man. Of course, I want to have a family and a child… Have you used the services of plastic surgeons? I won’t hide that I’ve changed something about my appearance. I once dyed my hair brown to participate in a soap opera. However, I think it inadmissible to make any serious changes, which can be dangerous to your physical or mental health. If someone says ‘make a certain change and you’ll then receive a new contract and everything will be ok’, I feel rejected. I’ll be alright regardless, I think! I’ve changed my breasts, making them larger. Moreover, I’ll inject botox when grow older. I don’t want to become old! Do you plan to return to Holland? I’ve received invitations to participate in various projects there. However, show biz there differs from that of Belarus. Here, you can conclude a year long contract but, in Holland, TV characters change quickly. A contract can end prematurely. I want stability and Belarus has given me this. Moreover, my mother and brother live here, who are most dear to me. By Viktar Korbut

Creativity always in fashion

air fashion has its own rules, followed avidly by those keen on making a good impression and expressing themselves via their app e ar anc e. T hou g ht s are already turning to Christmas and New Year, with people wondering how best to wear their hair. The Belarusian national hairdressing team has recently returned f rom t h e Wor l d Championship in Paris, which brought together 58 states. Belarus was represented by 10 professionals in the team event, with Inna Chaikovskaya winning a silver medal for her ‘Nail Fantasy Design’. Yekaterina Yasintseva came fourth in the men’s ‘Full Fashion Look’. Hav i n g re tu r n e d from France, our team shares their views on the latest trends and innovations of this season’s hairdressing art. “Speaking of fashionable hair trends, waves, curls and ‘big hair’ are in,” notes Natalia Khodanova, an international category jury and the team coach. “Curls are always feminine, perfect for those wishing to create a sexy image. Elegant curls undoubtedly conquer the hearts of men, while ‘big hair’ is great on long-haired beauties.”

Which hairdo to choose this season

“Today’s hairdos are quite natural, moving away from the pomposity of baroque style: a hot trend a few years ago. Light images are in fashion now,” notes Anastasia Yatkova, an international class master and an absolute champion of Belarus and Russia (ranked among the top ten European and world masters). “Wedding hairstyles should be ethereal, perhaps using subtle decorations. Everything should b e t r ansp are nt , delicate and lacy.” Natural hair colours are also popular at the moment. Natalia Khodanova tells us that blonde girls are still in fashion, but that tones of auburn — from light golden to chestnut brown — are gradually increasing in popularity. Hair cuts are well defined and regular, with variants of the blunt bob on trend. “Men’s styles are strict, stressing m a s c u l i n i t y ,” continues Ms. Yatkova. “However, if you are a true rebel, looking for something different and ready to experiment, you can embrace creativity. This is always successful. Express your individuality and don’t be afraid to be yourself. Be natural while creating your own image.” By Natalia Berestovitskaya

2011 беларусь.belarus

Kaleidoscope

Poets and prose Future has its writers accompanied own history Talents of Belarus exhibition by colleagues showcases young artists’ works,

Minsk’s Literaturny Svet Publishing House releases anthology of Polotskaya Vetv Belarusian Literary Union

created over last 15 years

he book contains photos of the 104 authors, alongside their biographies, details of their creative activities and a bibliography. Poets and prose writers, playwrights and literary critics, translators and literary men, many of whom are laureates of international literary contests and festivals, are included. The anthology gives a detailed chronological description of the 16 years of the Literary Union and includes a list of members of this artistic association.

An attempt to unveil a woman soul Alena Adamchyk’s Bielaruski. Women of Europe to become bibliographic rarity

Artur Prupas

he Director of the National Library of Belarus, Roman Motulsky, believes that the five volume edition will soon join the museum of rare books and is convinced that it will enjoy popularity among readers. “I didn’t search for differences between Belarusians and European women during my work, since Belarusians are European women already,” notes Alena. “I’ve striven to reflect the shared ambitions, hopes and dreams of all women. I’ve depicted our lives clearly, via the language of photography.” Alena Adamchyk is a famous Belarusian photographer and a master of creating lively portraits. Last year, Ms. Adamchyk released her fifth album, featuring famous women of Belarus who live not only in Belarus but abroad. Bielaruski. Women of Europe contains 12 lively portraits.

беларусь.belarus 2011

insk’s University of Culture Gallery is showcasing the best pieces created by young artists, sculptors and photographers: pupils of children’s art schools, secondary special educational establishments specialising in art studies, and those from the Belarusian State Academy of Arts and Belarusian Union of Artists. All the pieces were created by those under the age of 31 who have won the Star Rises Above Belarus republican contest, the 6th Open Youth Delphic Games (CIS member states) and international art contests. The exhibition opens doors for new talents and shows the development of those chosen for sponsorship by the Special Fund of the President of the Republic of Belarus for Support of the Talented Youth.

After the Menka River Minsk’s mythical founder could gain status as historical-cultural treasure

he Minsk City Executive C o m m i t t e e h a s s e nt materials on Menesk — the mythicalfounderoftheancient city of Minsk (Mensk) — to the Culture Ministry. The legend was first published in the mid-19th century by

Time travel proves interesting Museum of Road and Postal Service History opening in Starye Dorogi (Minsk region)

he Starye Dorogi Regional History and Folk Museum has received a grant from the Minsk Regional Executive Committee to create a new branch exploring the development of road infrastructure, while showing how the post station looked many years ago. It will detail how the museum’s collections and scientific archives were formed, with exhibits expected to be of interest to Starye Dorogi residents and guests alike. The centrepiece of the exhibition will be a recreated interior of the post station as it once existed, while the museum will also feature an inn, a guest room, a smithy and other buildings. The museum is due to open in mid-2012. famous Belarusian ethnographer and writer Pavel Shpilevsky. According to documentation, the capital was named after the Menka River, on which it was founded. Another version is that the name originates from the Slavonic word ‘mena’ (Russian for ‘change’) — as the city was situated at a crossroads of trading routes and became a trading post itself. The city is almost 11 centuries old and was first mentioned in the legendary Tale of Bygone Years, in 1067.