BELARUS #06/2011 by BELARUS Magazine

No.6 (933), 2011

BELARUS Беларусь. Belarus

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Contents

Беларусь.Belarus Monthly magazine No.6 (933), 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

Where Europe and Asia meet

8 12

Force of attraction Belarus, Russia and

Kazakhstan continue building Customs Union, with prime ministers of three states gathering in Minsk to stipulate terms

On the way to sustainable development

34 36

Wooden past Belarus applied to have

Precise terms A flax holding to be set up in

Positive energy Energy security is always

Green light for innovations

Field for initiative Belarus’ new Repu-

28 30

Belarus in two years’ time

among the most topical global issues

blican Association of Farming Enterprises aims to protect the interests of farmers in state run public authorities, offering consultations and advice

Saddle up! Border guards restore tradition of horseback mounted border patrols

Honourable status of childhood

Editor: Viktor Kharkov Executive Secretary: Valentina Zhdanovich

the wooden architecture of Polesie included on the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List

Design and Layout by

Unconventional quarter Similar com-

Беларусь.Belarus is published in Belarusian, English, Spanish and Polish.

plexes already operate in the largest European cultural centres: Moscow, Amsterdam and Vienna. The Belarusian ‘museum corner’ is to be completed by 2017

A good reason for a useful acquaintance Belarus-Latvia relations are now dynamically evolving, both in culture and in business

A comfortable megapolis in perspectives

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

Vadim Kondrashov, Georgiy Shablyuk, Aloizas Yunevich

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.

Prestigious titles

Cosmos of his soul Artist Anatoly Kuznetsov places his impressions, associations and moods on canvas

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

High demand for beautiful clothing

79 Nezavisimosti Ave., Minsk, Belarus, 220013

Unique collections and new trends of Belarusian fashion showcased by designers from Belarus and Europe on Minsk catwalks

Persuasive beauty

Publisher: “SB” editorial office

Order No.1598 Total circulation — 2030 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

On one’s own land

t was extremely hot this June; at the beginning of the month, temperatures hit record highs for the last few decades. This hasn’t greatly affected our lifestyle; it has been hot, but not intolerably so. Meanwhile, we have other concerns, such as the ‘rebooting’ of our economy. This is changing the country’s financial market, as we explore in On the Way to Sustainable Development. The plan of action developed by the Government envisages serious tightening of budgetary expenditure, alongside reduced rouble emission. Additional measures will be adopted to ensure social protection for low income citizens. To smooth the transition, Belarus hopes to attract foreign loans, while conducting privatisation over the next three years. This will allow the Republic to expand its gold-and-currency reserves; the total amount of assets for sale between 2011 and 2013 could reach $7.5bn. The recent visit of the Belarusian President to Kazakhstan’s Astana showed the priorities of our foreign policy. Alexander Lukashenko and Nursultan Nazarbayev discussed our bilateral relationship, as well as co-operation within the Customs Union. The launch of Minsk-Astana direct regular flight in 2011 should promote relations between residents of both states. In Where Europe and Asia Meet, we look at how Mr. Lukashenko and Mr. Nazarbayev have ‘long established direct communication’. Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan continue to construct the Customs Union. The prime ministers of our three states gathered in Minsk to revise its components, as we relate in Force of Attraction. Actually, the Customs Union became operational a year ago,

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after the presidents of Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan signed the fundamental documents. Of course, some issues remain unco-ordinated; each state has its own sensitive position. Belarusian manufacturers assert their difficulty in competing with Russian goods, due

to differences in energy pricing (2-2.5fold). Our economies differ greatly, with Russia and Kazakhstan currently experiencing pressure from Chinese capital and goods. Meanwhile, Belarus is trying to overcome its negative trade balance. Nevertheless, our three states have been demonstrating positive dynamics in the first year of the Customs Union’s existence. The issue of energy security is ever present worldwide, with climate change and environmental pollution playing their part; power engineering is the foremost priority. Accordingly, Belarus plans to raise its use of local and renewable energy sources. A National Programme has been adopted for this purpose, with around $3.5bn allocated over the coming five years, as we explain in Positive Energy. By 2015,

Belarus plans to double its application of local and renewable energy sources. Moreover, the ecological situation is to be improved. The plans aim to make our country more energy independent. Although it’s impossible to completely replace Russian gas and oil, alternative routes of delivery, the construction of a nuclear power station, and the development of local and renewable energy sources will allow us to considerably reduce dependence on our Russian supplier. The economic feasibility of such a policy is undisputed. This issue of our magazine is also devoted to other topics. Field for Initiative describes how the Association of Farming Enterprises is being set up in Belarus to protect the interests of farmers. It is to offer consultations and information support to rural smallholders, who may only account for two percent of the country’s total agricultural production but occupy a niche in some areas. Last year, Belarusian farmers celebrated their 20th anniversary, having gained their plots in 1991. Of course, not all the original farmers proved successful; until mid-2000s, the number of farming enterprises was constantly falling. However, definite growth has been observed since 2008, inspiring optimism. Belarus boasts potential to develop its farming. Farmers and the state are both keen to see agricultural success, as we are all united by our native land and universally benefit from farming achievements.

BY Viktor Kharkov, magazine editor Беларусь. Belarus

Panorama  Knowledge to aid Korean Language and Culture Centre opens at Minsk’s State Linguistic University

Global scale Belarus calls upon international community to establish new global partnership to protect interests of young people

elarus voiced the initiative at the annual session of the Executive Board for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)/ United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)/United Nations Office for Project Services. Discussing the Executive Director of the UNFPA’s report, Zoya Kolontai — the Deputy Permanent Representative of Belarus to the UN — stressed the significance of the Fund’s active involvement in solving youth problems. Participants focused on Belarus’ initiative — Contributing to the Prosperity of Future Generations, which aims to counteract such threats as drugs, alcohol and violence. In the near future, the Belarusian delegation is to participate in discussing UN financing, advocating the allocation of available resources to projects which meet the national interests of Belarus and other UN member states.

 Scientific views on integration Mentality of Slavs and Integration Processes international scientific conference held at Pavel Sukhoi State Technical University in Gomel

he forum has taken place for the seventh time, with the cultural capital of Belarus and the CIS hosting scientific debates on various aspects of integration, in a broad format. The event gathered over 200 leading university representatives from Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, Poland and Lithuania,

peaking in front of guests, students and teachers of the Linguistic University, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea to Belarus, H.E. Mr. Kang Weon Sik, noted that the creation of the Centre is a step towards mutual understanding between our two states. The State Linguistic University added Korean language to its curriculum last year, with 13 Belarusian students from the English Language Department choosing the option as part of ‘contemporary foreign languages’.

including 17 doctors, scientists and professors, 93 candidates of sciences, 8 Master’s degree holders, and 40 candidates for Master’s degrees and post-graduate students. The forum’s plenary and sectional sittings studied problems relating to integration, giving recommendations on how best to develop geopolitical, economic and socio-cultural interaction between Slavonic states, while preserving their unique national identities. The conference’s organisational committee collected 190 reports ranging from philosophy, sociology, history, economy and culture, for further publishing.

 Friendship on a high note Novopolotsk to join UNICEF Child Friendly City initiative

he initiative aims to care for children, creating favourable conditions for their birth and education, healthcare and wellbeing, including support for children’s and youth initiatives. Novopolotsk is the first city in the region whose local authorities provide material aid to families with newborn infants and has proclaimed 2011 to be the Year of Youth. Its city authorities are eager to open a youth job centre, while promoting secondary employment for students, helping schoolleavers choose professions which may benefit the city.

Novopolostk City Executive C om m itte e h a s s i g n e d an agreement with UNICEF, whose global initiative — Child Friendly City — aims to reduce the negative impact of urban living on children, maximising the opportunities of city life. Participation in the initiative contributes to the fulfilment of obligations taken on by a country in signing the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The Child Friendly City initiative is being realised in London, Paris, Munich, Buenos Aires, and in such countries as France, Spain, Italy, Holland, Sweden and Brazil. All are uniting under national and international networks. In Belarus, Pinsk, Pruzhany, Borisov, Dobrush and Soligorsk.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Visit

Where Europe and Asia meet

regular direct Minsk-Ast ana flight — launched this year — is to intensify relations between our states and citizens. Of course, Mr. Lukashenko and Mr. Nazarbayev have long established direct ties. In recent years, the heads of state have often met at various international forums, including in Astana (which, last December, hosted the OSCE Summit). However, Mr. Lukashenko last officially visited the capital (previously known as Tselinograd and Akmola) six years ago; ‘rare but right on target’ sums up the recent visit.

беларусь.belarus 2011

Belta

In late May, a state delegation of Belarus — headed by Alexander Lukashenko — visited Kazakhstan. The President’s official trip to Astana was his second foreign tour after the elections (following a visit to Turkmenistan). The move spoke much of Minsk’s foreign political priorities at the moment. Belarus and Kazakhstan are moving ever closer — both politically and economically. During the talks at the Presidential Ak Orda Palace (which crowned the visit), Alexander Lukashenko and Nursultan Nazarbayev discussed their bilateral relations, while focusing on trilateral co-operation within the Customs Union and the future Single Economic Space. The joint economic potential of our two states is still less than Russia’s GDP, so Minsk and Astana clearly need to co-ordinate their positions to ensure the integration is based on equal rights “I can’t help but come to the man who has always supported the Belarusian nation in difficult times, and who continues to support us now,” Mr. Lukashenko said on meeting the President of Kazakhstan. “On those December days, you were the first to congratulate us on the results of the presidential campaign.” The Belarusian President also congratulated his Kazakhstani colleague on ‘his convincing win at the elections’. The Belarusian Foreign Ministry has its own view on the present political relations of our two states, “Bilateral co-operation — as regards mutual understanding and respect — is now at its peak, allowing us to rely on each other, as necessary.” Such words are

very important when viewed against Minsk’s address to the EurAsEC AntiCrisis Fund; Astana is an important donor, alongside Russia. Like Belarus, Kazakhstan is an active participant of all integration processes within the post-Soviet space. Simultaneously, its authority is growing within the international arena and within other organisations. Last year, it chaired the OSCE, becoming the first former Soviet state to have such an honour. Meanwhile, in 2011, Kazakhstan is chairing the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation. Moreover, it plans to assist Minsk in establishing contacts with this influential international organisation, which is becoming a true force.

Visit stability and tolerance of our society are our trademark — as is Saudi Arabia’s oil and champagne in France’. Its natural resources are equally spread across its huge territory, with 99 of the Mendeleev Table’s 105 elements found in Kazakhstan. Over 60 are mined or processed, while it leads globally for discovered deposits of zinc. It occupies second place regarding silver and third regarding copper while its deposits of oil and gas are significant (3 percent of global reserves of ‘black gold’ and 2 percent of all ‘blue fuel’).

27 ‘Road Map’ guides

“You’ve come to us just in time,” noted Mr. Nazarbayev. “In 2009, [during the President of Kazakhstan’s official visit to Belarus — editor], we adopted a ‘Road Map’, unfolding our active cooperation. This should be developed further.” Mr. Lukashenko asserted that several dozen projects — outlined two years ago — are now being realised. Depending on how successful they prove to be, more should be added. At present, eleven assembly facilities making Belarusian machinery

Evidently, the potential of our two states is much greater than that currently observed. New prospects are possible within the Single Economic Space

At the negotiations in Astana Alexander Lukashenko, Belarus’ president, and Nursultan Nazarbayev, Kazakhstan’s president, discussed cooperation prospects of the two countries

Economic support

The recent talks took place at the Ak Orda Palace, in Astana’s new centre, which resembles Dubai or Ashgabat. The majestic building, made from monolithic concrete, is surrounded by a tall forged fence. Everyone in Kazakhstan knows it — not because the Presidential Residence is situated there, but because the local 10,000 Tenge banknote (equivalent to $65) features its image. Kazakhstan occupies ninth place worldwide for its size of territory. Meanwhile, its newspapers write: ‘The

Wisely using revenue from oil exports, Kazakhstan is now conducting a programme of forced industrialisation, with huge funds injected into industrial modernisation and the launch of new facilities. Belarusian enterprises, which boast huge experience of establishing assembly factories abroad, have an opportunity to help, as Mr. Lukashenko noted, “We’d like to join Kazakhstan’s grand plans and are ready to come and co-operate. We’ve almost no rival productions.” At the moment, joint projects worth over $100m are being realised in Kazakhstan. Mr. Nazarbayev, in turn, expressed the readiness of Kazakhstan to participate in the privatisation of Belarusian enterprises. He is interested in machine building, petro-chemistry and agriculture. Evidently, the potential of our two states is much greater than that currently observed. New prospects are possible within the Single Economic Space, with Belarus hoping to receive Kazakhstan’s oil for processing. We expect all obstacles regarding transportation via Russia will soon be lifted.

operate in Kazakhstan. Three were launched this year, being real fruits of the co-operation laid out by our ‘Road Map’ of collaboration. According to Mr. Nazarbayev, 27 joint ventures are planned. Belarus’ Industry Minister, Dmitry Katerinich, has announced that, this year, over 1,500 Belarusian tractors and 300 combines are to be assembled in Kazakhstan. Since mastering virgin lands, Kazakhstan has been a ‘treasure’ for Belarusian agricultural machinery, becoming a true ‘unploughed field’. Mr. Katerinich notes that 300HP tractors are to be assembled in Kazakhstan, with Minsk Tractor Plant signing a license agreement. “The document envisages that Kazakhstan’s representatives will visit Belarus in the near future to study issues relating not only to tractor supply. We plan to jointly set up assembly facilities, with our partners, to manufacture seeders, ploughs and other linkage-mounted machinery. It’s important for Kazakhstan to preserve its harvests. Accordingly, our guests will visit our plants — such as Lidselmash — to discuss possible assembly of elevators

2011 беларусь.belarus

Visit and grain dryers in Kazakhstan,” adds Mr. Katerinich. Additionally, two new models of Gomselmash harversters are to be launched in Kazakhstan. Apart from the ‘Road Map’, another strong catalyst exists to Minsk-Astana co-operation: the economic integration processes which are gradually being realised jointly with Moscow. These take the form of the Customs Union, the Single Economic Space and the future Eurasian Economic Union. We can assert that Kazakhstan is more than just a strategic partner; it is an ally. “We have unique allied relations,” stressed Mr. Lukashenko. Russia has always been viewed as Belarus’ ally. Our countries have achieved the highest level of economic interaction. Kazakhstani car traders at Minsk car markets are the first signs of the Customs Union. However, our two states have every reason to hope that greater advantages are to follow; to date, Kazakhstan accounts for just 2 percent of Belarus’ total exports but the trend is positive. In 2010, our bilateral turnover more than doubled against 2009, reaching $870m. Walking through Astana, I came across a shop selling Belarusian furniture — called proudly ‘a salon’. Moreover, Belarus-made tractors, tyres, trucks and milk products are well known in this country. Trade of services brings in another $145m, with mutual trade exceeding $1bn. In the first quarter of 2011, a 1.5-fold rise was registered. There are fears that Russia will force through the decisions it needs within the Customs Union and the Single Economic Space. With this in mind, co-operation between Belarus and Kazakhstan is vital. After his visit to Astana, Mr. Lukashenko spoke of his agreements with Mr. Nazarbayev, which state that ‘no large or small’ should exist within supranational bodies. After chatting with his Kazakhstani colleague, Belarus’ Agriculture and Food Minister, Mikhail Rusy, said that Minsk and Astana jointly oppose Russia’s proposal to remove the veterinary service

беларусь.belarus 2011

Belta

Equal collaboration

Kazakhstan to launch assembly of two Gomselmash-produced harvester models

from the Customs Union’s external borders (with further devolvement of functions to customs organs). “We are strongly against this, as it goes beyond the limits of the Customs Union agreement and international veterinary norms,” he stressed, adding, “However, I think mutually beneficial solutions will be found.” Imports of cars are also under scrutiny, as Belarus has no home production of passenger cars. It has been forced to agree to almost prohibitive fees on cars, with a similar situation planned for aircraft. Astana saw Belarus and Kazakhstan initiate their own plans to extend a privileged regime for aircraft imports into the Customs Union, until 2017. According to Belarus’ Transport and Communications Minister, Ivan Shcherbo, our two states need to renew their aviation fleets and plan to defend this position to Moscow.

Energy support

Energy co-operation is another promising sphere within the future Single Economic Space (which will abolish duties and other artificial barriers). Minsk hopes to agree a transport policy with Russia. “The Single Economic Space

ensures not only major possibilities but, also, obligations,” noted Mr. Lukashenko. Today’s issues relate to how best to pump Kazakhstani oil to Belarus, via Russian pipes. “If these matters of equal access to pipes and tariffs cannot be solved then a Single Economic Space won’t be needed,” stressed the Belarusian President in Astana. “It’s a kind of window to the world for Kazakhstan. We’d like Russia to compete with Kazakhstan as an oil supplier and we’ll co-operate with whoever offers the best terms. We would privatise our oil refineries and petro-chemical complex jointly with Kazakhstan but the interests of our large neighbour intersect, so we’ve chosen integration, with the aim of solving these issues within the Single Economic Space.” The Chairman of Belneftekhim Concern, Igor Zhilin, admits that talks in Astana looked at access of Kazakhstani oil to the single transport systems, supplying Belarusian oil refineries. “Within our trilateral union, Russia has the task of developing our mechanism of interaction. With this in mind, our talks focus on the fact that we have a common interest in sending raw oil and gas to Belarus, including from Kazakhstan,

Visit

Belarus has plans to supply oil from Kazakhstan for further refining

as well as gaining equal access to transport systems,” he stresses, adding, “Kazakhstan has interest in Belarus as we have a powerful processing industry, which boasts good intellectual potential and proximity to markets. Until July 1st, we’ll be awaiting Russia’s proposals.” Speaking of the price of Kazakhstan’s oil supplies, Mr. Zhilin notes that imports would be cheaper from there than from Russia for Belarus, if equal access to pipelines is ensured. The route would be shorter, so transportation costs would be lower. “The other issue is that it’s not profitable for us to process Kazakhstani oil, as an agreement with Russia is operational. We have to give export fees to Russia on all oil products exported from Belarus or processed here, even if they are sold to Kazakhstan,” explains Mr. Zhilin with sadness. “We are eager to diversify oil supplies,” stressed the Belarusian Head of State in Astana. A joint declaration by the two presidents summed up the talks, stating that the priority is ‘to develop energy dialogue between Belarus and Kazakhstan, filled with practical contents — including preparations for signing a bilateral intergovernmental agreement

on trade-economic co-operation in the field of oil and oil product supply to Belarus, taking into consideration our two states’ international obligations’. Certain progress is obvious in this branch. In 2010, Belarusian oil refineries processed 615,000 tonnes of Kazakhstani oil products and residual oil. Around 8m tonnes of raw oil was pumped to the West, with Kazakhstan helping Belarus move towards greater energy independence.

Possibilities without obstacles

The President’s official visit to Kazakhstan ended at the Eurasian National University. An agreement was signed in Astana on the establishment of a scientific-educational consortium between our states’ higher educational establishments and scientific-research institutions. At present, 52 direct agreements are in force between the universities of Belarus and Kazakhstan. “I’m convinced that the formation of a scientific-educational consortium between our states’ higher educational establishments and scientific-research institutions will contribute to the implementation of joint advanced developments in the production branch. A

corresponding agreement on its setting up was signed during the present visit, with 17 Belarusian higher educational establishments and scientific-research institutions participating; Kazakhstan is represented by 13 universities,” noted Mr. Lukashenko. The Eurasian National University is to head the consortium on the Kazakhstani side. All students, lecturers and guests at the University are welcomed by a panoramic picture depicting Kazakhstan’s historical and modern figures, on horseback. Nursultan Nazarbayev is at the centre, having been heading the Republic since 1989. About fifteen years ago, a steppe was found instead of the University’s buildings, at the far end of Astana — known then as Akmola. After the provincial city became the capital in the late 1990s, its population rose from 300 to 700 thousand people. Ministries, company headquarters and universities are now situated there, with the centre rather resembling the City of London. Although Kazakhstan is a Central Asian Republic, local people always stress that it forms a geographical border between Europe and Asia. One of the largest banks advertises itself as ‘purely European’: a true quality mark for Kazakhstanis. On lecturing to the University’s students and teachers, Mr. Lukashenko said that ‘co-operation with EU states is among the priorities of our foreign policy’ since the EU is the largest trading partner and investor. “It has much money — loans and so on — so there is no escape and no way round,” he said. In a broad sense, relations with the East have been and remain a priority for Belarus’ foreign policy. This direction has been recently expanded via new organisational forms such as the Customs Union and the Single Economic Space. “The launch of the Customs Union and Single Economic Space should raise our relations to a whole higher level,” said the President, summing up the results of his talks in Astana. “We’re striving to see the joint customs territory as a window of possibilities, rather than an obstacle.” By Igor Slavinsky

2011 беларусь.belarus

Integration in effect

Force of attraction Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan continue building Customs Union, with prime ministers of three states gathering in Minsk to stipulate terms

he Customs Union actually entered into force a year ago, after the presidents of Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan signed its constitutional documents. However, s ome issues have remained unresolved; several exemptions exist outside of the Customs Union’s limits, with each state having ‘sensitive’ positions. Belarusian manufacturers assert that they find difficulty in competing with Russian commodities, since energy prices differ 2-2.5 times. Clearly, where one country needs oil and gas for its sustainable development, the other has its own interests. A compromise is needed. Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister, Karim Massimov, said last year that, for his country, equal access to transport infrastructure is vital. “According to our plans, the Single Economic Space should ensure equal opportunities for our companies; equal access to commodity transit through all states is the principal issue. There is no sense in establishing the Single Economic Space if this remains unsettled,” Mr. Massimov noted. Our economic situations also differ. Kazakhstan and Russia are feeling the pressure of Chinese capital while Belarus is trying to manage its negative trade balance. However, overall, our three countries demonstrated positive growth during the first year of the Customs Union’s existence. Belarus’ Deputy Foreign

беларусь.belarus 2011

Minister, Alexander Gurianov, stressed that the agreements — adopted as part of the Customs Union — have made it possible to create steady conditions for trade within the three states. “Accordingly, improved conditions of mutual trade and co-ordinated policy on many issues enable us to avoid trade wars and similar.

free movement of goods, it envisages free movement of services, investments and workforce’. Our countries are to partially test the mechanism starting from July 1st, when the Customs Union’s inner borders will be virtually lifted. Experts believe this will influence the speed and volume of cargo

Sessions in Minsk tackled other matters besides the Customs Union. Over the past twenty years, several integration associations have appeared within the post-Soviet space. Two more summits were held for governmental heads — that of the Council of CIS Heads of Government and of the EurAsEC Interstate Council In general, this considerably raises the level of trade within the Customs Union.” According to the official, in many respects ‘hopes for the Union’s establishment have been justified’. He notes, “We are observing positive results — including from the point of view of Belarus’ interests.” Real economic results are now evident. In 2010, mutual turnover rose considerably, reaching $29bn (up from $24bn in 2009). Belarusian exports to Russia and Kazakhstan grew by $3bn (to reach $10bn). Meanwhile, Deputy Economy Minister Anton Kudasov believes that the Single Economic Space ‘has even greater potential as, apart from

flow. Undoubtedly, international carriers will benefit from enhanced transit, with revenue brought into the Belarusian budget. If no new obstacles appear, then turnover between our three states should surely rise: vital to Belarus, being export oriented and import dependent. Access to a market with a population of 170m and $2 trillion of aggregate capital is certainly an attraction. At a recent sitting in Minsk, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin announced Kyrgyzstan’s desire to join the Customs Union. Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan are to study its application in the near future. Tajik partners are also sending

Belta

Integration in effect

At a session of the Council of CIS Heads of Government

signals. Despite the Single Economic Space being not yet operational, Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan have agreed to complete all details regarding the higher integration union — the Eurasian Economic Union — by January 1st, 2013. Mr. Putin explained shortly, “The formation of this union will ensure mutually beneficial co-operation with other countries, alongside international and regional economic associations — including the European Union. The configuration of this project is yet to be finally settled, but is not far off.” Sessions in Minsk tackled other matters besides the Customs Union. Over the past twenty years, several integration associations have appeared within the post-Soviet space. Two more summits were held for governmental heads — that of the Council of CIS Heads of Government and of the EurAsEC Interstate Council. In fact, the Commonwealth is yet to fully assert itself but member states refuse to give up on its format. “If we make plans and adopt programmes running until 2020, we can refute rumours regarding the CIS’ death,” the

Chairman of the CIS Executive Council, Sergei Lebedev, told journalists. We all know that it’s vital to breathe new life into projects; a free trade zone agreement could be the stimulus needed. The topic was high on the agenda in Minsk, with many believing that it could mark the CIS’ 20th anniversary. However, a uniform decision is yet to be made. Four countries are now WTO members, while the Customs Union unites three states, which hampers consensus. According to Tajikistan’s Prime Minister, Akil Akilov, full abolishment of export and import duties would be the ideal variant. However, to achieve this, all CIS members would need to join the WTO. So far, the free trade zone agreement envisages too many exemptions and special conditions. Each country has its own sensitive commodities — as is evident: the CIS is sometimes a true battlefield. Moreover, the establishment of the Customs Union requires each member state to revise its bilateral agreements with third countries — which entangles trade-economic relations. However, Mr. Lebedev is convinced that, by October, when

the heads of government meet in St. Petersburg, an agreement will be signed. “If any country refuses, it will need to agree to terms co-ordinated by the remaining sides,” he stresses. The sitting of the Eurasian Economic Community’s heads of government — uniting Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Armenia (as an observer) — focused on the establishment of the EurAsEC Court, which is to start work on January 1st, 2012. It is to pass legislation for the Customs Union and the Single Economic Space, while examining inter-state disputes and settling claims from economic entities. The need for such a structure has long been apparent and the Customs Union’s creation has made it even more so. Moreover, such a court is needed not only for participating members but for third countries trading within their territory. Mr. Putin stressed, “The EurAsEC Court aims to strengthen the efficiency and reliability of our community’s structures, while enhancing trust and interest in them from economic operators.” By Irina Vakuzova

2011 беларусь.belarus

Panorama  Regional-level partners 8th Gomel Economic Forum gathers record number of 24 participating states

 More students expected Belarus’ accession to Bologna Process should boost exports of educational services

he Education Minister, Sergei Maskevich, recently reminded during an online conference of the state decision to accede to the Bologna Process. Concrete steps are being taken in this field. According to the official, one of the major results of this accession would be Belarus gaining more recognition within the international educational arena as a country providing high-quality education. “It is very important — perhaps the major reason why we are so interested in accession to the Bologna Process,” Mr. Maskevich noted. “If transition to European standards worsens the quality of our courses (as could happen for certain fields) we will simply make appropriate adjustments based on national interests,” the Minister stressed. Contrary to expectations, the accession of Belarus to the Bologna Process will not impact on employment of Belarusian graduates abroad. “Many incorrectly believe that joining the Bologna Process automatically solves issues of employment abroad,” he noted. According to Mr. Maskevich, it’s up to employers to decide whether to recognise the education diploma of a job applicant.

беларусь.belarus 2011

apital from 39 countries is already present in Gomel Region’s real sector of the economy, while 75 percent of manufactures are exported. Trade is conducted with 110 countries, covering almost every continent. Meanwhile, about half of the major projects currently being realised in Gomel Region are connected with previous forums. For several years, a delegation from Poland’s Lubusz Voivodship has been participating in the forum. Their close contacts have already resulted in 25 companies using Polish capital operating in various fields within Gomel Region. Italian businessmen have also been attending the event and have shown eagerness to set up a facility to bottle wine, among other projects. Belarus’ south-eastern region has much to offer its Russian partners, with some joint projects already realised. These include the production of fuel briquettes, and of composite materials made from thermoplastic polymers, and the production of packaging made from cardboard protected against forgery and fake (for Russian folk crafts). During the forum, several agreements were signed, all aiming to drive forward foreign economic activity. One envisages the establishment of a joint facility to sell dairy products from Gomel Region to Russia. The Russian delegation was the largest and most diverse at the Gomel fair, with partnerships and capital investments discussed. Vladimir Balakin, a corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Deputy Director of the Institute for High Energy Physics (Protvino, Moscow Region), was intrigued to learn that Gomel has a large medical institution specialising in the treatment of cancer. He shared information on his own institute’s development, which uses ray therapy to battle the disease.

 Physicists applying experimental technology National Academy of Sciences’ Physics Institute helping modify agricultural crops

ew varieties of wheat, rye, maize and barley are planned, explains Vladimir Kabanov, Director of the NAS’ Physics Institute. “We’re beginning the project by applying plasma technologies to farming. It’s a completely new area, which we hope will allow us to quickly grow crops more efficiently, while making them resistant to various climatic conditions.”

From next year, new varieties of agricultural plants will be created jointly with Russian scientists. According to Mr. Kabanov, specialists from the Physics Institute are currently working with Russian colleagues in implementing over 30 joint projects, closely liaising with various institutes of the Russian Academy of Sciences and with private enterprises. “From this year, we’re launching a new programme of research, development and creation of hetero-structures and semiconductor devices. The budget of the Union State of Belarus and Russia allocates funds and we pledge to show results over the next few years,” adds Mr. Kabanov. He emphasises that Belarusian and Russian physicists are also working on modifying laser technology to ensure safety for the eyes.

Panorama  Compass of new discoveries

 Mysterious habits

National tourist treasures included in Tourism Mosaic of Belarus

“M

 What threatens native species? Belarusian scientists to study ichthyofauna of the Dnieper-Bug Canal, paying special attention to alien fish species

“A

scientific expedition is to start work in early summer along the Dnieper-Bug Canal, which connects with the Black Sea basin. It is from there that invasive species arrive,” explains the Head of the Ichthyology Laboratory at the National Academy of Sciences’ Scientific-Practical Centre for Bio-Resources, Victor Rizevsky. Over the past years, the number of alien fish has risen in Belarusian waters. “Stickleback, goby and ratan goby pose the greatest threat to traditional Belarusian fish. We need to study how they are spreading, so that we can fight them in future,” he notes. About two dozen (out of 63) fish species in Belarus are viewed as invasive, pushing out native species, which reduces biodiversity. Scientists predict that this process is likely to continue, so additional measures must be taken to preserve traditional Belarusian fish numbers.

ottled and simultaneously bright, the multi-coloured spectrum of treasures creates a mosaic which forms the basis of the book’s concept. A mosaic must have a ground. In our case, it is grounded within the unique landscape,” noted the Director of the National Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Arts, Ethnography and Folklore, Alexander Lokotko, presenting the edition at the National Library of Belarus. The book is the result of an innovative project, using fundamental and applied research in the field of folk and professional art, ethno-cultural processes, folk and traditional culture and architecture — conducted by the Institute of Arts, Et hnography and Folklore. Authors Alexander Lokotko, Olga Knyazeva, Yevgeny Morozov and Olga Izotova have demonstrated how tourism is developing in Belarus, looking at 52 local districts. Our complex historicalcultural heritage is dissected, providing a unique guide for tourism industry workers and ordinary Belarusians as yet unfamiliar with all the treasures their homeland has to offer. The book describes customs and crafts found in each region, while focusing on the most outstanding sites. Belarusian souvenirs are also featured, in addition to cities and villages connected with memorable military events and heroic deeds by Belarusians. Tourism Mosaic of Belarus is not the first book to be published on Belarusian culture. In 2010, the National Library hosted the presentation of Architecture of Belarus.

Grey owl bewilders Polesie ornithologists he great grey owl has been a welcome sight in the Ivatsevichi District’s forests, close to Lake Vygonoshchanskoe, being a rare species in Belarus. Sadly, this spring, the small population of this protected bird appears to have failed to breed. Ornithologists began watching possible nesting sites from April; by mid-May, they realised that their hopes were in vain, as the time had been and gone without any eggs being laid. Some assert that lack of food may have caused the owls to refrain from breeding; last winter, field mice — being the owls’ major food source — died due to snow melting and further frosts. The Deputy Director of Polesie Agrarian-Ecological Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Victor Demyanchik, believes that other birds who eat mice have managed to breed this year, so is uncertain as to the true cause of the rare owl’s lack of offspring. He finds the bird to be full of contradictions, choosing remote places to nest, yet happy to allow people to approach as close as a few metres. Unlike other owls, it hunts during daytime as well as at night and builds nests both on land and in trees. Birds are known to be sensitive to external in f lu enc es, s o ornithologists do their best to monitor h a b i t s closely.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Economy

On the way to sustainable development

In May, Belarus’ currency market witnessed considerable change, with Belarusian Rouble falling against the basket of currencies (which includes Dollar, Euro and Russian Rouble) by 56 percent. Despite its unpopular character, the measure was necessary

“W

e need to live within our means,” President Alexander Lukashenko stresses, noting that, in recent years, economic expenditure has significantly outstripped revenue. Devaluation is the first important step towards balanced development. Others shall later follow. The Government’s plan of action envisages serious toughing of budgetary expenditure and reduction of rouble emission. Additionally, measures are to be taken to ensure social protection for families on small incomes. To soften the transitional period, Belarus hopes to attract loans from abroad and has appealed to the Eurasian Economic Community’s Stabilisation Fund and the IMF for credit support.

беларусь.belarus 2011

Analysing reasons

In late May, Alexander Lukashenko held a sitting covering topical economic issues. He analysed the advantages and shortcomings of the previous macroeconomic policy, reminding that, during the height of the global crisis of 2008-2009, Belarus did not cut its industrial production volumes (unlike other countries), while continuing to ensure high employment and social guarantees. Despite difficulties, the country did not limit its state programmes in the field of housing construction, agriculture and medicine. “We were doing everything possible to protect people,” the President asserts, convinced of the correctness of the previous anti-crisis strategy. However, he blames the Government and the National Bank for serious omissions. “We continued our social policy but lost our sense of proportion. We thought that money materialised from thin air. We must learn to live within our means.” At the meeting, Mr. Lukashenko outlined how the present economic situation in Belarus differs from that of 2008-2009. “The global financialeconomic crisis gave birth to a sharp decline in consumer demand worldwide. Later, world companies ceased operations and faced bankruptcy. This is the difference from the present situation. Then, we were unable to sell our manufactures, as nobody was buying,” he emphasised, noting that current demand for Belarusian products remains high. However, we are still seeing a negative foreign trade balance: since JanuaryApril, it reached $3.7bn. One of the major reasons was that Belarusian enterprises bought energy, metal and components at higher prices than in 2010. These expenses must be paid for from higher prices for Belarusian exports. However, the production cycle — including the purchase of raw materials and components and sale of ready-made goods — can take several months. In other words, currency lost at the beginning of the year will take some time to return. The Belarusian High-Tech Park’s Director is an expert at the Innovative

Economy Development Institute, Valery Tsepkalo. He has his own views on the economic situation. In his opinion, during the global economic crisis, the Government failed to rationally use foreign currency. It continued to increase output of readymade products, keeping them in warehouses. As a result, about $1.5bn was ‘frozen’ in stock, which should have been spent on setting up new export oriented innovative facilities. Mr. Tsepkalo is convinced that this would have generated worthwhile revenue. Pressure on the currency market also led to the Government’s administrative increase of salaries. This improved people’s standard of living but indirectly led to the devaluation. “The idea of increasing salaries was absolutely correct,” believes Mr. Tsepkalo. “However, it wasn’t achieved by raising

all sides,” admits Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Rumas. However, such measures are essential for recovery and stabilisation of the currency market. In particular, the Government has decided to update its budget figures for 2011, cutting its deficit to ‘no more than 1.5 percent of GDP’ (previously, within 3.2 percent of GDP). Emission cre dit ing for st ate programmes is being cut, with financing for the State Investment Programme reduced by 30 percent. The Government is asking local authorities to independently find additional non-budgetary and non-emission sources of financing. Measures to enhance export growth are being given special attention, including raising labour productivity and extending lease and payment terms for export sales, alongside promotion of Belarusian products.

The Government ’s plan of action envisages serious toughing of budgetary expenditure and reduction of rouble emission. Additionally, measures are to be taken to ensure social protection for families on small incomes production efficiency.” Roubles were printed rather than earned, then spent on purchasing foreign currency and imported products (such as cars and white goods). This resulted in the reduction of foreign currency reserves and led to the devaluation. No doubt, the mistakes of the past must provide lessons for the future.

Anti-crisis plan

In May, the Government developed a programme of measures ‘to ensure the balanced development of the economy, under the changed conditions of the Belarusian rouble’s official rate’. The anticrisis plan includes 30 actions which affect the most important spheres of the economy and finances. “We have to make unpopular decisions, bringing fair criticism from

The anti-crisis plan affects the public. Tariffs for housing and communal utilities are to rise in two stages, easing rising expenses on the state. Tariffs for city and railway transport, inter-city transportation and communication services may be reviewed. The Government also envisages some measures to socially protect citizens against rising retail prices and utility costs. On June 1st, pensions rose by 14 percent; the next rises are planned for August 1st and November 1st. Noncash housing subsidies are envisaged for families on low incomes, whose expenses for housing and community utilities exceed 15-20 percent of their income. The Government also plans to find money to support scholarships, allowances and salaries for those employed by state-run organisations.

Credit potential

To improve the balance of payments and ease the transitional period in the economy, the Government has appealed for foreign loans. The first application has been granted by the EurAsEC Anti-Crisis Fund: allocating $3bn to Minsk over a three year period. $1.2bn is to be given in 2011, with the first tranche of $800m due to arrive in summer; the remaining $400m is expected in autumn. Simultaneously with the attraction of loans, Belarus is to conduct privatisation over the coming three years, helping save gold-and-currency reserves. The aggregated volume of assets offered for sale from 2011-2013 could reach $7.5bn. Finance Minister Andrei Kharkovets says that Minsk has already received proposals from investors regarding several companies. The Russians are showing interest, with its proposals ‘being considered’ the official stresses, adding that privatisation in Belarus is only possible if it meets the principles outlined by the President. “None of our valuable assets will be sold for peanuts. The process of privatisation must be open, transparent and greatly profitable for Belarus,” he noted. In late May, Minsk also addressed the International Monetary Fund for a loan. Prime Minister Mikhail Myasnikovich informs us that the country hopes to attract $3.5-8bn from the IMF, stating that its interest rate is half that charged by the EurAsEC Anti-Crisis Fund. Belarus already has experience of financial collaboration with the IMF, having received $3.5bn since 200910, under a ‘stand-by’ programme. This autumn, Belarus hopes to sign documents for a new credit line. Speaking of possible macroeconomic conditions for the loan, Mr. Kharkovets notes, “We proceed from the fact that the programme that we have signed with the EurAsEC AntiCrisis Fund is so complex that it should also satisfy the IMF.” By Vladimir Vasiliev

2011 беларусь.belarus

Projects

Precise terms A flax holding to be set up in Belarus in two years’ time

flax holding is to be set up in Belarus by 2013, with Orsha Linen Mill heading the organisation, uniting another 29 enterprises. Among them there will be 22 linen mills, the Flax Institute and flax-seeding stations. “We are to establish a holding by 2013,” explains the Agriculture and Food Minister, Mikhail Rusy. By this time, long flax-fibre (used to produce enhanced quality fabric) will be ready for steady supply to Orsha Linen Mill. Companies which are to join the holding will be modernised, while others will undergo restructuring and re-specialisation. “Some small plants are economically inefficient, employing just 22-24 staff,” explains the Minister. “We are now re-equipping them with lines to process flax-fibre (they currently

produce ribbon and rope).” Additionally, four new lines producing linen oil are to be launched, with the necessary equipment already purchased. The linen branch needs technical modernisation. “This is the most problematic avenue,” Mr. Rusy stresses, adding, “We’ve prepared a business plan and 18 new foreign lines are to be launched.” The latter are to work in three shifts, making it possible to increase production volumes and improve quality. According to Mr. Rusy, foreign investors are interested in the Belarusian flax industry. He cites Belarus’ plans to co-operate with a Belgian company as an example. Belgian investors are eager to finance short flax-fibre processing in Belarus, with further plans to manu-

facture deluxe products. “We’re negotiating with Japan and France as well,” Mr. Rusy adds. Interest from foreign investors in Belarusian flax companies is growing due to falling flax supplies worldwide. Belarus can only benefit from this situation, while promoting local products. Mr. Rusy also notes that flax companies receive government subsidies in many counties: in Belgium, each tonne of flax receives funding worth $800. Moreover, Belgian manufacturers export their products at world prices. Orsha Linen Mill is also backed by the state but sells its manufactures at a lower price. “It’s essential to co-ordinate the two aspects of the flax industry: that responsible for profit making and that overseeing the distribution of state support,” Mr. Rusy is convinced. By Inna Levkova

Belta

To develop the linen branch is a responsible mission

беларусь.belarus 2011

Investments

Space for entrepreneurial spirit Polotsk named ‘Best City for Doing Business in Belarus’

n total, around 70 Belarusian towns and cities took part in the contest, with Polotsk earning the right to host an international investment forum which aims to inspire regional development. According to Valery Prokhorov, Director of Polotsk’s Entrepreneurship Support Centre, the victory was no accident. The city operates a reliable system of consultative support for all small and medium-sized businesses (from registration to liquidation). Moreover, upwards of 3,000 individual entrepreneurs successfully work in the city, alongside around 1,000 small and medium-sized enterprises. These ensure a third of all city budget revenue, while accounting for 84 percent of service exports. The inflow of investors wishing to invest in c it y d e ve l op ment recently increased and, by the time of

Convenient location Group of Finnish companies keen to set up three manufactures at Grodnoinvest FEZ

he total amount of Finnish investments will stand at around 5m Euros. Metalliset Grodno was the first Finnish company to set up at Grodnoinvest FEZ, registered as a resident by the famous chain Finnish Metalliset Group.

the international forum (to be held in Polotsk in late May) six new promising investment projects will have been prepared. These include the construction of Polotsk’s own ‘Disneyland’ and a chain of hotels, in addition to infrastructure development near Polotsk’s Saviour and St. Yevfrosiniya Convent and St. Sophia Cathedral. In line with the regional development programme, the construction of a small business incubator is to begin in 2011, further promoting t h e c i t y ’s investment attractiveness.

Recently, another enterprise with Finnish investments — Makron Grodno — was also registered at the FEZ. Soon, a group of Finnish companies, having five plants in Europe, plans to register its third enterprise in Grodno Region. New resident companies will create completely export-oriented manufactures in machine building and metal processing. These will produce steel constructions and components, as well as industrial equipment for international companies.

Incentive to do business UFS Investment Company’s managing partner, Yelena Zheleznova, has recently told a press conference in Minsk that Belarus boasts huge potential and fine investment opportunities

he noted that UFS IC is opening an office in Belarus. “It’s no accident that the company has decided to develop its business in Belarus. The country has huge potential and its own unique market, which we’ve now studied,” Ms. Zheleznova explained. After tapping the Belarusian market, UFS IC plans to develop corporate financing, operating on sovereign, municipal and corporate debt markets, while modernising and enhancing the capitalisation of Belarusian companies. “The most promising investment areas for us are direct capital investment, debt capital markets, and work with Belarus’ sovereign Eurobonds,” stressed Ms. Zheleznova. She added that the company’s experts are making a thorough study of state-run companies’ privatisation in Belarus, showing considerable interest in the chemical and oil refining industries. UFS Investment Company is an international investment company, offering a full range of financial solutions. It employs corporate finance experts with experience of working for major world banks and enjoys authority among clients and contracting parties on the markets of securities, assets and structural products, liaising with all major market participants.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Priorities

Positive energy Energy security is always among the most topical global issues. Taking into account that it is directly linked to such topics as climate change, environmental pollution and the search for alternative sources of energy, it is a number one priority worldwide — including for Belarus

ike other countries, we are searching for cheap, renewable, clean sources of electricity and heat. The European Union leads in this branch and has outlined a goal: to ensure 20 percent or more of its renewable energy by 2020. The transition to new technologies is not cheap of course; only wealthy states can afford the research and industrial production of such technologies. However, it’s a case where the greedy pay double; we must prepare in advance — otherwise, we’ll be buying oil at the price of gold! Belarus’ plans are similar to those of the EU, hoping to make 25 percent of its energy renewable by 2025. To achieve this, a national programme for 2011-2015 was recently adopted — now being realised. It envisages the development of local and renewable energy sources and, according to forecasts, is to cost about $3.5bn. According to the document, Belarus plans to double its use of local and renewable energy sources by 2015 (to reach 5.7m tonnes of oil equivalent). In all, 2.4bn cubic metres of imported natural gas are to be substituted, while ecological matters are to be tackled. As a result of renewable energy sources replacing fossil fuels, greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced by around 2.7m tonnes by 2015.

беларусь.belarus 2011

Huge melting pot

The theme of local energy use was high on the agenda during the Belarusian President’s recent trips through the regions. In mid-May, he visited Belkotlomash ScientificProduction Enterprise, in Vitebsk Region’s Beshenkovichi District. He noted that the efficient use of small energy sites must be established countrywide, with more labour efficiency. During Mr. Lukashenko’s visit, the production of energy saving domestic heating boilers — using peat, woodchips and other similar materials — was defined as an important component for strengthening the country’s energy independence. Belkotlomash is among the leading producers of boiler equipment in Belarus. Established in 1990, it specialises in the development and production of water heating and steam boilers using various fuels; its boilers can even burn damp peat and, being economical, suit villages, hospitals, schools and farms. The President was given a demonstration of a new 3MW boiler which can generate 2.5MW of heat and 250kW of electricity. “We have an example of the new boiler but lack the system of transition to local fuels,” noted Mr. Lukashenko, adding, “This system must be created. We should also train people in how to use it. We sometimes observe that, having a good boiler and good communication lines, we face a stone age when it comes to operating it.”

Priorities Warmth of northern region

Vitebsk Region is the leader in mastering local fuels in Belarus. The Chairman of Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee, Alexander Kosinets, tells us that, by 2013, his region is to increase its share of local fuels for housing and communal utilities enterprises from 60 to 75 percent (compared to 40 percent countrywide on average). “Initially, we planned to reach this figure by 2015 but are now setting an ambitious task. We failed earlier, as we lacked the necessary boilers, but are now ready to completely change the structure of our fuel balance,” he explains. A regional programme is also being implemented to develop small energy sites; 68 such facilities are planned for construction. According to Mr. Kosinets, this will allow natural gas consumption to be halved by 2015. If all comes to pass, Belarus will take another step forward on its path to energy security. Of course, it’s impossible to fully substitute Russian gas and oil but alternative routes of hydrocarbon deliveries, the construction of a nuclear power station and the development of local and renewable sources should help significantly reduce Belarus’ dependence on Russian supplies. The economic feasibility of this policy is undoubtful.

rising to 1.5mln. cubic metres. In 2011, these figures stand at 9mln. and 800,000 cubic metres respectively. Forestries are to develop an additional 1,000 hectares of quick growing, hardy species — such as alder — to meet fuel purposes. Deputy Prime Minister Valery Ivanov notes, “Every year, more forests mature in our country: in 2001, they accounted for 7.9 percent and exceed 10 percent at present. This trend is vital to the long term sustainable development of the branch.” The fuel avenue of the forestry branch is now a priority. Vileika Forestry is already producing wood fuels, having pioneered them in Belarus. In addition, several other forestries have such facilities, of various capacities. By 2015, seventy should be operational, able to produce 1.5mln. cubic metres (stipulated by the state programme). Apart from ensuring the country’s energy security, the development of this branch will, importantly, help create new jobs in villages. Other ambitious goals are related to peat, which Belarus boasts in great quantities. It is far easier to convert large facilities to peat usage than woodchip usage. Over the next four years, peat is to be used at the Architecture and Construction Ministry’s cement plants and, from 2015, 600,000 tonnes of reference fuel will be supplied.

Woodcutting generates chips

Alexander Belik (on the left), a steam turbine operator, Gennady Karpuk, the head of Brest Heat and Power Station, checking availability of their HPS

2011 беларусь.belarus

Belta

Belarus abounds in forests, lakes and marshes. The national programme of local and renewable energy development for 2011-2015 was adopted in May, envisaging the construction and modernisation of 164 Belarusian local fuel facilities — primarily those which use wood chips. To achieve the target, annual wood fuel usage should rise to 10.5mln. cubic metres by 2015, with the production of woodchips

Priorities

In line with the national programme for 2011-2015, over 200 wind facilities are to be constructed in Belarus, with a total capacity of 450 MW Wind freedom

Philip Peck, an associate professor at Lund University (Sweden), notes that many European states have optimised their energy production systems by de-centralising and using local fuels. He cites a Danish electricity station as an example, which consumes straw supplied from a 50km radius; 40 tonnes of straw can generate electricity to supply 18,000 houses. Our country lacks enough sun to install solar power but, as Mr. Peck states, European experience of bio-fuel consumption and wind generators could be applied in Belarus. On May 18th, the largest Belarusian wind generating facility was launched near Novogrudok, with a capacity of 1.5MW. It should produce 3.8mln kW/h of electricity annually and is the first industrial wind generator for a future park of 7-8 facilities. These will satisfy the needs of a district centre. The chief engineer at Lida’s electric network company, Victor Soroko, explains, “It was initially decided to construct a wind energy facility on Novogrudok Hill. According to specialists, it best suits the conditions needed. Last year, we announced a tender and a Chinese firm offered the best value for money. We began to liaise, with our specialists even visiting China to become convinced that we need such a facility.” The wind generating plant is situated on one of the highest points in the country: 315m above sea level, near the village of Grabniki, several kilometres from Novogrudok. Being 80m tall, it can be seen from a distance. In April, its 40m blades began to rotate and the first megawatts of energy were generated. Mr. Soroko is convinced that further construction of wind turbines is likely. “Of course, we need to continue building such facilities. This site is suitable for six, which will make it easier to service them. Moreover, we have no doubt that they’ll be efficient. Their blades

беларусь.belarus 2011

begin turning when the wind speed reaches 3 metres per second but 4.5 metres is really needed to make them efficient. The usual wind speed here is 5-6 metres per second; only a few days each month register lower speeds. However, to build new wind turbines, we need to see, in practice, how they operate. Only then will Grodnoenergo make a decision.” The project is to cost Br13bn but it’s hard to say how long it will take for the investment to pay for itself, since electricity prices are ever changing, depending on the market situation. Initially, the payback period was estimated at 15 years but Grodnoenergo’s chief engineer, Yuri Shmakov, thinks the period could be shorter — taking into account the Dollar’s rising value and growing prices for fossil fuels. The facility should save about 65 tonnes of reference fuel per month (worth Br30mln.). Another three sites have been chosen in Novogrudok District for the construction of wind generating facilities, with a capacity of up to 60MW. They are expected to produce about 215mln. kW/h of electricity annually, saving over 50mln. cubic metres of natural gas. Apart from Novogrudok, Grodno Region is also being studied for its suitability. The districts of Smorgon and Oshmyany could be suitable for wind farms. In line with the national programme, over 200 wind facilities are to be constructed in Belarus, with a total capacity of 450MW. Additionally, 33 hydro-electric stations are to be built or reconstructed, accumulating up to 100MW of energy.

Instead of epilogue

However attractive alternative energy might seem, oil, gas and nuclear power will remain the major sources of heat and electricity in the future. On being asked why Belarus needs its own nuclear power station, Belarus’ Deputy Energy Minister, Mikhail Mikhadyuk, tells us, “Some play to the gallery, making money and scoring points by questioning whether Belarus really needs its own nuclear power station. They say we should be satisfied with wind generating facilities! Actually, no state is fully satisfied with them.” According to Mr. Mikhaduyk, over 20 percent of Belarus’ fuel is local but a far larger proportion is required. “We need electricity in the necessary volumes, at a moderate price. At present, we import 80 percent of our energy resources. We must ensure that energy is affordable for economic entities and the public, while allocating money to develop the energy field. A nuclear power station must be the basis, with others built upon it,” he stresses, explaining state priorities. By Igor Kolchenko

Panorama  Taming of water This year, the country’s most powerful hydroelectric station will become operational in Grodno

Laboratory assistants, Yelena Dluskaya and Vera Voronko, performing an oil analysis

Dozens of years ahead

ssembly of equipment has already begun at the construction site. Moreover, specialists from Grodnopromstroy, JSC have reinforced the River Neman’s bed, whose water is to power the new hydroelectric station. An earthen dam, reinforced with stones extracted from Mikashevichi pits, will contain the water.

Specialists and scientists calculate that the Republic has potential for oil mining until 2080

peaking only of the economically profitable mining of hydrocarbons, forecasts show that volumes of these strategic fuel supplies are set to gradually fall. In particular, by 2030, Belarusian wells will only be yielding about 500,000-600,000 tonnes of oil annually. “The difficulty is that the large Belarusian oil deposits discovered in the 19601970s are nearing their end, while newly discovered deposits, sadly, lack such potential,” notes Valery Beskopylny, a doctor of geological-mineralogical sciences and assistant to the Director General of RUE Production Association Belorusneft. Nevertheless, Belarusian and foreign scientists agree that no more than half of all potential Belarusian oil deposits have been detected. This is confirmed by the fact that the annual growth of developed deposits remains stable, at 80 percent of the existing mining level. Positive forecasts regarding the future of the oil industry take into account ever improving methods of searching for and developing oil deposits. “Deposits at great depths are yet to be discovered, in addition to non-traditional deposits (as yet inaccessible). Possibilities for improving oil mining technologies have not been exhausted. We are extracting 30 percent of discovered oil from wells at present, while 70-80 percent is possible; reserves have further potential,” states Mr. Beskopylny.

The future hydroelectric power station will receive its water-power mechanisms in June, manufactured by Czech Mavel, while three piers of the overflow dam to be complete by August. Autumn will see the redirection of the River Neman, making Grodno’s hydroelectric power station the largest renewable hydroenergy source in Belarus, annually generating over 84mln. kWh of electricity. This will be enough to satisfy the needs of 80,000 flats.

 Competitive resources Latvian Rietumu Banka to give loans to medium-sized businesses in Belarus

he bank has been giving credit to Belarusian businesses for several years and plans to continue. Dmitry Pavlov, the

 Workforce in demand Minsk becoming attractive to foreign labour migrants

ince early 2011, about 2,000 foreigners have found jobs in the capital. “Most people arrive from Ukraine, Lithuania, Uzbekistan, Turkey and China,” explains Valentin Demchenko — the Head of the Foreign Labour Migration Department at the Minsk City Executive Committee’s Domestic Affairs D epar tment. “Sp ecialists are employed in the fields of construction and public catering while many migrants open their own private firms in Minsk.” The Minsk City Executive Committee’s Labour, Employment and Social Protection Department informs us that the job vacancies abound for builders, drivers, locomotive drivers, electricians, sellers, high riggers, waiters, seamstresses and conductors. Head of Rietumu’s International Lending Department, explains, “Rietumu p oss ess es great resources and our terms are rather competitive. Our specialists boast the necessary experience of risk assessment, in Moscow and in Minsk, so I think Rietumu’s proposal will be of interest to entrepreneurs from neighbouring states.”

2011 беларусь.belarus

Panorama  Just like in Caracas

 Investors’ preferences

Belarusian-Venezuelan trading house may open in Minsk

Evidently, money will play a key role in overcoming existing economic problems. Aside from loans, two major sources of injections exist: export revenue and capital. These can be invested into the creation of new manufactures and into the development of existing facilities. Decree #4, adopted by the Belarusian President, opens up additional opportunities for those wishing to inject money into Belarus

Communications remain priority Belarus’ President, Alexander Lukashenko, sends message to the Secretary General of the International Telecommunication Union, Hamadoun Touré, noting that Belarus will participate in the forthcoming anniversary forum — ITU Telecom World 2011

elarusian-Venezuelan joint trading enterprise Venbelcom has boasted a permanent exhibition of goods on its premises in Caracas since late April. “According to a previously signed agreement, a similar trading house may open in Minsk,” notes the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to Belarus, H.E. Mr. Americo Diaz Nunez. “Probably, Venezuela is keen to see the work of the trading house in Caracas before deciding.” The Belarusian-Venezuelan trading house in Caracas was

he mess age p oints to t he expansion of relations between B elarus and the International Telecommunication Union; these gained momentum after the Unite the CIS Space Summit was held in Minsk in November 2009. ‘Information and communication technologies are an essential part of the innovative development of the Belarusian economy’, reads the Belarusian President’s message. Established in 1865, the International Telecommunication Union is the leading UN agency for information and communication technology issues, being also a global focal point for governments and the private sector in developing networks and services. The ITU Telecom World 2011 event is scheduled for October 2011, marking its 40th anniversary. The forum will be attended by heads of the largest corporations and state bodies, in addition to leading international experts, who will discuss ways of information-communication technology development and prospects for mutually beneficial co-operation.

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set up to increase sales in both countries, covering new areas of collaboration, with contracts signed by state enterprises and private companies. “Eventually, it could lead to a significant rise in bilateral trade turnover, since interaction between our two countries is mostly complementary,” adds the Ambassador.

mportantly, the Decree allows project documentation elaborated abroad to be implemented into investment projects, which should help businesses considerably save time. Moreover, investors will receive a whole range of financial preferences, particularly, a VAT privilege when establishing a new site. Investors are also exempt from paying land tax and rent (for state-owned land lots) for the duration of the project, allowing engineering and construction. Previously, such privileges were granted on an individual basis only, by corresponding decrees to a particular investor. Now, this package of preferences is available to everyone. How do experts view the Decree? Georgy Grits, Deputy Chairman of the Belarusian Scientific-Industrial Association on Investment and Innovation Politics, notes that the ‘document will ease the realisation of investment projects and, undoubtedly, will promote the attraction of additional funds to Belarus’. He also stresses that the country’s balance of payment depends on foreign trade figures and on the inflow of foreign injections. The more capital arrives and stays in the Republic, the better for the economy.

Expertise

Green light for innovations

Innovation Performance Review of Belarus presented in Geneva

Vadim Kondrashov

xperts from the UN Economic Commission for Europe helped prepare the Review, which Igor Voitov, the Chairman of the State Science and Technology Committee of Belarus, explains: Mr. Voitov, what purpose does the Innovation Performance Review of Belarus serve for the UN Economic Commission for Europe? The Review possesses great practical value for Belarus. It could make a significant contribution to improving national legislation in the sphere of innovations while enhancing the attractiveness of the Belarusian market, encouraging beneficial and qualitative investments into the economy’s innovative sector. At the same time, it enhances the image of our country. Belarus is currently the only state for which such a review has been prepared, although similar documents are planned for Kazakhstan (in 2011) and for Ukraine (in 2012). Representatives of Moldova have also expressed interest in a similar project. We can confidently say that the joint pilot project of Belarus and the UN Economic Commission for Europe has proven itself very successful. Which innovation successes of our country have been mentioned and which recommendations, given by specialists, do you view as vital and useful? The experts have commented upon our new legislation governing innovative activity — particularly mentioning the draft law ‘On State Innovation Policy and Innovative Activity in the Republic of Belarus’. It will be a vital instrument

for further development of the economy. They also noted that sci-tech innovations receive priority in our country, as is primarily reflected in the State Innovation Development Programme. Concrete examples of how the state is stimulating innovative activity are named — such as the High-Tech Park and other sci-tech centres. As far as recommendations are concerned, experts believe that our country should accept international practice relating to the understanding and implementation of innovative activity. A separate section of recommendations is linked to developing small and medium-sized entrepreneurship. The current barriers should be assessed, with measures taken to eliminate obstacles. In this respect, special attention is being given to the introduction of the notion of risk and to support measures for ‘risk’ innovation enterprises — without sanctions imposed on developers

and organisations who are involved in scientific-research and design and experimental works. Additionally, it’s important to support youth initiatives, which are keen to take part in implementing innovations. Mr Voitov, how do you generally assess our collaboration with the UN Economic Commission for Europe and Belarus? Does this interaction promote stronger economic ties with European states? Over all, we can highly assess its work. Participation in the work of the UN Economic Commission for Europe’s Committee on Economic Co-operation and Integration enables our country to fully use the opportunities of this Committee to enhance our economic potential. Participation clearly demonstrates the intentions of our country to integrate into the world economic community. By Yelena Denisenko

2011 беларусь.belarus

Agriculture

Field for initiative Belarus’ new Republican Association of Farming Enterprises aims to protect the interests of farmers in state run public authorities, offering consultations and advice

lthough rural entrepreneurs account for just 2 percent in the country’s total agricultural production, they hold a niche in some areas of produce — primarily potato and vegetables. According to Alexander Kazakevich, who heads the Institute for System Research of the Agro-industrial Complex’s Smallholding Sector at the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, over the years, such smallholdings have become an alternative to large scale farming.

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From the general to the specific

Last year, Belarusian farmers celebrated their 20th anniversary, since 1990 is considered to be when the agrarian movement began in Belarus. At that time, the Council of Ministers of the BSSR adopted a temporary order on land allocation for the organisation of farm smallholdings. In 1991, a law came into force regulating their work, with over 6,000 people expressing their desire to become land owners. Of course, not all were granted their wish and, of these, around 4,000 farming enterprises have since ceased operations: due to losing interest, changing occupation, inexperience leading to lack of efficiency or having retired without transferring their business to descendants. Until around five years ago, the number of farming enterprises was constantly falling; however, definite growth has been observed since 2008. Today, there are 2,149 farming enterprises operational, with 184 ‘born’ last year. “In the early 1990s, some random people became involved in farming; now, only those primarily connected with agriculture continue: former heads and specialists of agricultural enterprises

and those with agrarian diplomas,” notes Vladimir Krasovsky, the Deputy Head of the Agriculture and Food Ministry’s Department for Improving Economic Management Mechanism. He tells us that a new trend is being seen, “Primarily, the processes taking place in the country’s agrarian sector are changing. Unprofitable agricultural enterprises are being amalgamated with those which are more prosperous. Over the last decade, the number of agricultural enterprises has fallen from 2,100 to 1,252. Specialists in agrarian technologies and experience, released from previous jobs, are becoming agricultural entrepreneurs.” At present, farmers own almost 132,000 hectares of land. The average size of farm varies from 43 hectares in Minsk Region to 107 hectares in Mogilev Region — double in size since the beginning of the farming movement. The trend is easily explainable: larger plots tend to be more efficient. It becomes easier to buy new machinery when you are a certain size. Of course, larger farming enterprises still exist — such as Mikhail Shrub’s farm, located in Gomel Region’s Zhitkovichi District. It is known even beyond Belarusian borders.

On our own land

Today, Mr. Shrub boasts 1,800 hectares of land, growing potatoes and vegetables and breeding pigs; he has 120 employees. In 1993, this rural entrepreneur received 30 hectares of land, creating a successful agricultural

Agriculture enterprise in a short period of time. He sells domestically and abroad and accounts for half of agricultural profit in Zhitkovichi District. Last year, Mr. Shrub’s farm was visited by Alexander Lukashenko, who then announced his desire to see private smallholdings develop further. He hopes to see lands not being used efficiently by large agricultural enterprises (many such lands exist in Vitebsk Region) given to smallholdings, which should be supported in enhancing efficiency. Several farms are using Mr. Shrub’s enterprise as their model, since its profitability stands at over 30 percent. Last year, the enterprise paid Br3bn in taxes, while paying higher than average farming salaries. Mr. Krasovsky tells us that four unprofitable farms are being joined to the private enterprise. At present, eight farming enterprises in the Republic have been given others on lease. Fartuna and Fartuna-agro farming enterprises, set up by Sergey and Galina Matus, are also great examples of success, operating in Brest Region. The Head of Diana farming enterprise in Mogilev Region, Vladimir Malinovsky, also boasts pleasing crops and revenue in potato seed farming. Elita-K farm, established by Anatoly Kruglyakov, the former Director of the Scientific Research Institute for Potato Growing, is now known far beyond Minsk Region. “Rural smallholders are trying to occupy those niches unoccupied by large agricultural organisations,” notes Mr. Kazakevich. “Some are involved in producing ‘exclusive’ crops — such as watermelons, American blueberries or decorative crops. Isn’t this importsubstitution? Our shops offer goat’s milk at Br15,000 per litre while a farm in Dzerzhinsk District can sell it for considerably less. ” Nadezhda Kotkovets, Belarus’ First Deputy Agriculture and Food Minister, is confident that rural entrepreneurs know how to apply their knowledge and experience. “We need farmers to develop animal breeding, including breeding of

rabbits, sheep and goats,” she noted at a Republican session dedicated to the problems of farming development, held at the Agriculture and Food Ministry earlier this year. “We need to grow more herbs, fruits and vegetables while developing promising agro-ecotourism.” Farmers aren’t against the idea, believing that private initiative will be inspired by further land allocation, availability of loans and state assistance in acquiring machinery, mineral fertilisers and plant-protecting agents.

which, banks won’t allocate money. The promise of a future harvest is not sufficient and greenhouses and cow sheds aren’t viable capital. Fortunately, farmers can now lease agricultural machinery. Last year, farmers were given 180 pieces of machinery under long-term lease conditions: tractors, trucks and harvesters. It has also become easier to convert unused buildings. In 2010, 16 empty buildings were given to farming enterprises on lease conditions.

At present, farmers own almost 132,000 hectares of land. The average size of farm varies from 43 hectares in Minsk Region to 107 hectares in Mogilev Region — double in size since the beginning of the farming movement Not rivals, but partners

Today, rural residents are more often ready to ask such farmers for advice on seeds or growing techniques. “Farmers are equal participants in the agro-industry; they have the right to state support, just as other business entities involved in farming,” underlines Ms. Kotkovets. In fact, 37 farming enterprises are currently included on state programmes for breeding and the development of potato growing and vegetable farming. In 2010, Br1.2bn was allocated from the Republican budget to satisfy primary infrastructure development of farming enterprises: the construction of roads, access ways, electrification, gasification and other needs. However, farmers believe that the availability of loans is far more vital; without these, it’s difficult to strengthen the material base. According to Mr. Krasovsky, many farmers are unable to access loans, as they lack a material guarantee, without

Belarus definitely has the potential to develop its farming. The state will continue to do all possible to reveal this potential, but smallholders will also need to be active. Mr. Kazakevich believes that, due to severe market competition, co-operation by farmers is more important than ever. He explains, “At present, 80 percent of farmers are engaged in crop growing and only 20 percent combine this with animal breeding. It’s an advantage to be self-sufficient on your farm but not everyone can work like this, so it can be better to unite efforts; this allows farms to pay less for production equipment, sharing energy efficient machinery and efficiently selling their products at less cost.” The creation of the Republican Association of Farming Enterprises is expected to promote solutions, to the interests of state and farmers alike. By Lilia Khlystun

2011 беларусь.belarus

Metropolitan appearance

ach city faces its own problems: traffic jams, overpopulation and lack of green planting. Minsk is no exception, growing rapidly over the last 65 years; its population has risen from 150,000 to two million. When we consider the requirements of modern standards of living, it’s clear that city designers have serious challenges to solve. They are responsible for up to 30 meters below ground and many metres above. Among the many improvements of recent years, which have truly made a difference?

To solve the problem, Minsk City Executive Committee has decided to significantly reconstruct the motorway, raising it from two to four lanes in each direction, divided by a 3m buffer. Vitally, multilevel traffic interchanges without traffic lights will replace intersections, enabling a constant flow. Pedestrian safety will be ensured via underground walkways while houses sited too near the road, preventing its widening, have now been demolished. Each stage of the improvement works is carefully planned. The intersection of Mayakovsky a n d D e n i s ov s k ay a s t r e e t s ( t h e latter being Minsk ring road) is to

coloured concrete tiles, will rise in coverage from 3,700 to 15,600sq.m. The most difficult aspect of the work is relaying all the communication lines below ground. Naturally, there is a tight schedule to adhere to for the interchange, with completion due within 58-61 months. The site should be fully operational by September 2014, according to the original plan; however, city authorities hope to see completion three years ahead of schedule. It is a real possibility. Three such traffic interchanges are to be built along Mayakovsky Street alone, with reconstruction of the railway bridge (towards Moscow) presenting the

A comfortable megapolis in perspectives Minsk to change its appearance by the 2014 IIHF World Championship How to ‘free’ an intersection

Loshitsa is one of the most populated and promising suburbs of Minsk, being home to dozens of thousands of residents. Meanwhile, new facilities are being built there, for use by the whole city — such as a large cultural and sports centre, which will host 2014 IIHF World Championship matches. However, it’s not easy to reach this suburb during rush hour; the major traffic artery of Mayakovsky Street has long been ‘overloaded’, being crossed by other main roads. There’s a traffic light at each intersection, so queues rapidly form during peak hours. Instead of 10-12 minutes, the route from the city centre takes much longer.

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be widened to four lanes in each direction, while being lowered by 4.5m. To achieve this, 150,000 cubic metres of earth is being extracted, to be deposited at the other end of the city, in the suburb of Kamennaya Gorka (currently under construction). Four pedestrian crossings are being built at the traffic interchange. In total, three multilevel traffic interchanges are to be constructed along Mayakovsky Street, giving it a whole new look — particularly at its intersection with Denisovskaya Street. The road will become 16m wide, covering 31,200sq.m (up from 24,800) while its pavements, covered with multi-

biggest challenge, needing to be widened. The interchange is to become a fly-over, saving time and materials while giving the buildings a lighter, more ‘aerial’ appearance. Naturally, the level of construction must be exemplary. This interchange at the intersection of Tashkentskaya Street (another large motorway) and Minsk’s ring road will become the Belarusian capital’s first completely ‘above ground’ interchange, ready in time for the IIHF World Championship. The second stage will open the way towards a new suburb, currently planned for construction outside Minsk’s ring road. In total, at least ten contemporary traffic interchanges are to be built in

Metropolitan appearance Minsk in the coming years. Dozens of additional car parks, new metro stations and lines are planned, allowing traffic congestion to be significantly reduced. Nemiga is Minsk’s legendary river, having witnessed bloody battles in ancient times. However, by the 19th century, it had been buried beneath the city. Even now, from time to time, the river brings an unpleasant surprise, flooding pavements during heavy rain. Recently, specialists from Minsk’s Spetsstroy company used the latest technologies to tackle the problem, laying a reinforced concrete pipe of two metres

can find themselves knee-deep in water. Such danger appears two or three times a year and, according to specialists, if the necessary measures aren’t taken in time, the situation will only become worse. Meanwhile, flooding carries water directly to the River Svisloch, polluting it with oil products and chemicals and silting it up with sand and dirt. The river is one of Minsk’s greatest landmarks, so must be preserved carefully. In 2002, Minsk City Executive Committee decided to solve the issue once and for all, opting to build a sewage pipe of greater diameter and more than 12km long, to cross the city of two million people underground. It will be able to

diameter by automated tunnelling. Within the next few years, more works are planned for the Tsentr underground storm drain, preventing future flooding in the centre of Minsk. The problem is ages old, born of centuries of urban growth and recent layers of asphalt and concrete being laid. The soil can no longer absorb water, and the climate is changing; rain showers are heavier and more frequent. Of course, an underground storm-water system exists — but it is inadequate to the job, needing at least double the capacity. At present, about 50 sites around Minsk remind us of Venice during heavy rain: trolleybuses become waterlogged and people

tackle rainwater runoff from around factories, ensuring that pollutants are taken to purification facilities — to be constructed beyond Minsk’s ring road. Minsk’s streets will become comfortable in all weathers and the River Svisloch will be saved. In a heavily populated city, such as task can be solved only by laying pipes via an automated tunnelling system — known as micro-tunnelling. Access hatches are placed every 500-600m, and special reinforced concrete pipes of large diameter are then lowered into the tunnel. Recently, the method was used for a 5km section near central Nezavisimosti Avenue, in

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Concrete banks of Nemiga

three places. Soon, works will begin from Belorusskaya Street to Vesnyanka suburb, securing the whole city centre from flooding. It should be complete by 2018, with major funds allocated for the purpose and the most advanced equipment used. Extra-strong reinforced concrete pipes with a diameter of 1.2m-3.6m are being used. Only a handful of enterprises produce such pipes within the CIS; most of them are used in Minsk. Other cities and countries, particularly those in the Baltic States, are showing interest in similar modernisation of their underground drainage. The export potential is huge — estimated at $2m per year.

Minsk-Arena sports complex is one of the most advanced in Europe

Tomorrow’s tasks

Of course, there are many more areas in which Minsk’s infrastructure is being modernised. Over the past few years, a public garden near the National Opera Theatre has been revamped, as have many central streets and public gardens; the volume of such works has increased 6fold. In the near future, the third stage of the metro will commence, serving several new suburbs. Over 30 new hotels are to be built, while the number of industrial enterprises shall be moved beyond the city boundaries. Minsk aims to remain a world class city while embracing eco-friendliness and all the comforts of modern life. By Vladimir Yakovlev

2011 беларусь.belarus

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Resources

Visitors of Lesdrevtech-2011 Exhibition in Minsk trying out new equipment

Roots and heads A dozen years ago, Belarusian forestries tended to sell only logs — at home and abroad. Some facilities were more advanced, producing boards and planks, which people bought for their own purposes, to later cut to size. At the same time, standard shovel shafts, axe handles, wooden spoons and chopping boards were imported from abroad. Sometimes, this was an original way for Belarusian timber to return, though at a much higher price. A similar approach was used regarding buildings made from beautiful regularised round timber: cobwork houses, banyas and small constructions. Then, the import substitution programme was created, with deep wood processing receiving great attention

he recent International Lesdrevtech-2011 Exhibition in Minsk displayed a wide range of f rames for guesthous es, b at h-hous es and wells, as well as a selection of arbours, swings and small decorative architectural structures. They weren’t prototypes, manufactured especially for the exposition, but

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constructions which forestries can produce in significant volumes. Gennady Shutro, chief engineer at Starye Dorogi experimental forestry, tells us that frameworks from rounded timber enjoy great demand, as people realise that plastic isn’t as beautiful, or ecologically friendly, as wood. In fact, plastic lasts only a little longer than timber, with many people becoming converted to the idea of using natural

materials. With production re-organisation and the timely installation of new drying lines and machinetools, forestries countrywide have quickly adjusted to clients’ wishes. Today, anyone can purchase finishing materials, such as floor and glazing mouldings, floor and exterior boards, alongside frameworks from rounded timber, directly from Starye Dorogi forestry. Many other forestries are

For information following suit, with orders tailored to meet individual needs. The range of exhibited timber consumer goods was impressive, with plenty of spade and axe handles, spoons, rolling pins and cutting boards on display. Previously, people might have had to visit several shops to find a new axe handle; although the range was worthy, prices were very high. This year, forestries have started to manufacture these types of goods at affordable prices, due to the deepening of wood processing. Ostrovets forestr y, alongside others, uses every offcut to produce useful, good quality, cheap goods, e nj oy i ng g re at p opu l ar it y. Igor Kurochkin, the Head of Production and Sales, explains, “When commercial structures began to occupy this niche, forestry workers were embarrassed, because they couldn’t produce simple items for people although they did have timber. As a result of advanced wood processing, forestries have almost no waste to dispose of; even sawdust and shavings are used — made into fuel briquettes. Much has been spoken about these in recent years, although they are yet to be seen on the market. Leonid Demyanik, who heads the Belarusian Forestry Ministry’s Department for Production and Sales, tells us, “At present, people don’t have boilers able to use fuel briquettes, so most are exported. However, the manufacture of this type of fuel in Belarus is expanding. When people begin to shift to new boilers, with high efficiency, they’ll finally understand that it’s much quicker and more feasible to heat houses with briquettes than firewood. By that time, we’ ll be ready for enhanced demand. We’re keen to remind potential customers that briquettes are produced in our country and are awaiting buyers.” Our forestries have made great progress, with this year’s Lesdrevtech2011 being interesting and useful for specialists and ordinary citizens alike.

Exports to pay for expenditure Grodno Khimvolokno expands export supplies

Economically feasible ecology Belshina, JSC to manufacture ‘green’ tyres meeting EU ecological standards

he latest ‘green’ tyres are more ecologically friendly, allowing cars to consume less fuel. The EU is currently promoting this branch, with an active shift towards the tyres beginning next year in the European Union. With this in mind, Bobruisk’s Belshina plans to master their manufacture, with the tyres sold both in Belarus and abroad. Belshina is to start manufacturing the eco-tyres for passenger cars and, if demand is demonstrated, will expand its range to cover other vehicles. A supplier of the necessary equipment is being sought by tender, with Russia, the UK, Italy, China and Japan applying. The company has conducted talks with some potential suppliers already.

n 2010, Grodno Khimvolokno manufactured $120m of goods, with over 60 percent sold abroad — to Western and Eastern Europe, as well as America and Asia. Tyres, machinery, vehicles and petrochemicals were sold, with the company planning to expand export supplies by more than 15 percent in coming years. The enterprise’s technical development programme and modernisation has allowed it to preserve its market position while expanding sales abroad. One factory, manufacturing polyamide technical threads, is already operational, rivalling foreign analogues, while new types of goods are being developed. Among them are polyester threads for cord fabric and conveyor belts, threads for carpets and anide tyre cord, which is vital to Bobruisk’s Belshina, JSC. Previously, this had to be purchased from abroad. Grodno Khimvolokno is to continue its modernisation, as stipulated by its development programme for the coming five years. It plans to spend 120m Euros, raising industrial production by almost 170 percent and almost doubling exports. Profit from foreign economic activity should exceed $200m.

Oil for health First domestic flaxseed oil soon to appear in country’s outlet chain

idlen, JSC is ready to sell flaxseed oil to Belarusians, with a specialised automated line already installed at one of the enterprise’s workshops, situated in Lida District’s Dorzhi village. It is designed to process flaxseed, while producing five hundred 0.33 litre plastic bottles hourly. Belarus has never before manufactured flaxseed oil in such volumes, obliging customers to buy imported goods. Lida’s company plans to conquer the domestic market within a short time, while also exporting its flaxseed oil. Profitability could stand at 35 percent.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Experiment

Saddle up! S

oviet drawings from the 19201930s depict border guards on horseback, with binoculars and working sheep dogs. Now, contemporary Belarus is reviving the tradition; from May 2011, two border posts began using horses to help patrol inaccessible areas, with journalists invited to observe the launch of the experiment. One is in Grodno Region, where the borders of Belarus, Poland and Lithuania meet, while the other — Soveiki — is in Vitebsk Region — at the junction of B elarusian-Latvian-Russian border. The latter is near Polotsk, in Belarus’ most northern location of Verkhnedvinsk District. Osveisky Farm is located not far from Soveiki. Its Director, Nikolay Martynov, notes, “Local pensioners tell us that, before the Great Patriotic War, border

guards used only horses, having no cars or motorbikes.” At that time, local border guards protected the border with Latvia. After the war, Latvia joined the USSR and

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the border ceased to exist. It appeared again when Latvia withdrew from the Soviet Union and gained independence. Today, Belarusian border guards again have the opportunity to protect the country’s boundaries. “We use French helicopters and quad bikes,” notes Igor Rachkovsky, the Chairman of the State Border Committee of Belarus, enumerating the technical innovations. “Of course, the use of working animals at the border has always been justifiable. Now, our dog service will be expanded with horseback patrols. We believe this will be useful in Verkhnedvinsk Dist r ic t, w here Soveiki border Artyom Pastukhov, post a serving soldier at Soveiki border post, on patrol

controls a 50km section of the Latvian border. Most passes through woods an d a l ong t h e banks of streams, where it’s impossible to drive or walk during the autumn muddy season. Moreover, cars are noisy, which alerts smugglers and allows their escape; you can come closer when riding a horse.”

Border guards restore tradition of horseback mounted border patrols

General Rachkovsky also notes that border guards require assistance from local people, who love horses and know everything about them. Fortunately, Osveisky Farm has an equestrian school; it has already provided four horses with complete harnessing to the border post: two Belarusian draught horses and two Trakehner horses (bred in Germany). Young border guards have been selected for the patrol for their experience of riding and caring for horses; some were once involved in equestrian sports while others graduated from the veterinary academy. All have passed special courses at Osveisky’s equestrian school. “Eight of my colleagues from the border post have joined me in passing horseback riding courses, learning how to take care of the animals while familiarising themselves with rules of behaviour in extreme situations,” notes junior sergeant Arseny Kurilov, whose father’s farm had a horse. “We’ve been told how to behave if a horse steps on a sharp object, becomes frightened from a shot or wants to shake off a rider. I’ve already found a common language with my working horse, Venera. Although it’s tetchy, the horse is obedient and is keen on bread and sweets. However, our instructor at the equestrian school has warned us not to give too many treats during training; otherwise, the horse will refuse to work without them.” On the eve of the experiment, border guards learnt from the experience of their colleagues from Central Asia and Transcaucasia. They’ve turned an old shed at Soveiki into a comfortable and contemporary stable. Alexey Pavlov, a retired colonel, helped with training in how to behave with horses, and how

Awards

Recognition Nurse from Belarusian Red Cross Society awarded with Florence Nightingale Medal

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to feed and water them. Without exaggeration, he was a true legend for our Belarusian border guards. Before the Great Patriotic War, he served at the border between Soviet Lithuania and Klaipeda, which was occupied by the Germans. There, he taught horsemanship but, while arresting a trespasser, was wounded and sent to hospital in Minsk. War broke out and his border post was destroyed by bombardment; only eight people of 68 survived. Mr. Pavlov fought in the war and, afterwards, became an advisor of the border police in Thuringia. He graduated from the Military Academy’s Border Department in peacetime and continued to protect the country’s boundaries. In 1963, he retired as head of a border squadron, which controlled a section where the border of the USSR met those of Norway and Finland. He left for Chisinau but, in 1990, returned to his native Vitebsk, where he was delighted to chat to schoolchildren, and to transfer his colossal experience to the young soldiers. Unfortunately, the veteran died a month ago, but his memory will live on. He has been eternally registered as an honorary border guard of Polotsk’s border squadron, with a corner at Soveiki border post dedicated to him. The checkpoint may be renamed in his

Comrades-in-arms

honour too. Other veteran border guards attending the launch of the equestrian experiment in Soveiki were very proud at seeing the young soldiers set off to patrol on horseback. “During the experiment, which will last two years, we’ll analyse the advantages and disadvantages, deciding on whether horses are needed at the border,” notes Mr. Rachkovsky. “However, it’s clear even now that the experiment has brought us closer to the local people living along the border, which is wonderful. The efficiency of our service greatly depends on the strength of these ties.” In summer, the Belarusian border guards promise to organise a minipioneer camp for children from neighbouring schools. They also hope that those from the equestrian school at Osveisky will apply to work with the service. The Chairman of Vitebsk’s Regional Executive Committee, Alexander Kosinets, who has visited the border post, assures us that local authorities will be closely observing the experiment while promoting an expansion of the number of horses used. He believes the tourist potential of Verkhnedvinsk District should be extended, with a rest house for Belarusian border guards appearing near beautiful Osveiskoe Lake.

he International Committee of the Red Cross in Geneva has chosen 39 nurses from all over the world for the prestigious medal. “Awarding a nurse from Belarus with the Florence Nightingale Medal is a great honour for our country,” asserts Victor Kolbanov, Secretary General of the Belarusian Red Cross Society. “Six legendary nurses from Belarus — who took part in the Great Patriotic War —have been given the medal for their wartime deeds: Hero of the Soviet Union Zinaida TusnolobovaMarchenko, S of ia G oluk hova, Yevgeniya Shevchenko, Yekaterina Sirenko, Sofia Kuntsevich and Maria Garachuk. In peace time, the award is a true sign of international recognition of the merits of nurses.”

Lyudmila Lelikova has worked for almost 35 years as a nurse, being truly professional, as well as generous and sympathetic. The Florence Nightingale Medal is the highest and most prestigious international award for nurses. This is the second time in recent years that nurses of the Belarusian Red Cross Society have been honoured with international recognition. In 2009, Nina Bliznyuk was awarded with the Florence Nightingale Medal. By Yelena Prus

By Sergey Gomanov

2011 беларусь.belarus

Demography

Honourable status of childhood Lyudmila Nechkova, a villager from Vitebsk Region, addressed our editorial office with a letter: ‘After our third baby was born, we gained the status of a large family. However, we don’t know what this entitles us to’. We began to study the situation and found out the many benefits on offer to the Nechkov family

a t u r a l l y, a l l s t a t e assistance is within certain limits but it’s surprising how much larger families can b e n e f i t . Ly u d m i l a and Alexander Nechkov have lovely children but their income is small. Although they didn’t address the District Labour, Employment and Social Protection Department directly, they automatically qualify for benefits. Rossony District Executive Committee actually sent a leaflet to local residents containing detailed information on agencies there to help larger families; the local Labour, Employment and Social Protection Department has a copy of the document — available to any member of the public. They also have specialists who are available to offer advice. A ‘one-stop-shop’ principle operates at the District Executive Committee, with heads regularly visiting village councils to meet citizens. Countrywide, on Mother’s Day, October 14th, women with children are solemnly honoured, presented with a true holiday. Of course, you don’t need to

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have a large family to be praised on this day. One lady in Mogilev District works as a nursery teacher and is bringing up her son alone; two years ago, local authorities praised her efforts, presenting her with a microwave oven. No doubt, parenting is not an easy job when done well but the rewards are bountiful: the love of your children. What could be more precious? In our modern times, families with even two children are viewed as a true demographic achievement, while three children make their parents ‘heroes’. Parents may feel even more heroic on having more than three children, being awarded with medals. It’s wonderful that some women have 5 or even 6 children, although our grandmothers and great-grandmothers regularly had even larger families, without receiving special status, as was normal in the past. Women were then pleased simply with the respect expressed by others. Moreover, they felt proud if their children grew up to be clever and talented; they knew for sure who would bring them their last glass of water. E ach generation has its own problems, so it’s impossible to compare

them objectively. How can we truly appreciate how families raised their children a hundred or more years ago? How did they manage to feed, clothe and educate their offspring, with schools being few and far between and there being no free medical provision or other assistance from the state? Perhaps adults felt less pity for themselves and ensured they had their children early in life, realising their true value. According to official statistics, as of early 2011, the number of under 18s in B elarus dropped by 27.4 percent (654,000) against early 2010 — reaching 1,737,400. Last year, 108,000 babies were born: 55,700 (51.6 percent) boys and 52,300 (48.4 percent) girls. Experts from Belarus’ National Statistical Committee say that the fall in the number of babies countrywide is connected with the fall in the birth-rate in the 1990s. This has most affected the 10-14 age group; since 2000, the number of these children has fallen 1.8-fold (by 360,000). However, there are some positive trends. Last year, 52.3 percent of women gave birth to their first child, while 44.7

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Demography

percent had their second or third (in 2005, these figures were 58.2 and 38.5 percent respectively). A growing number of families are being ‘brave’ enough to have a second or third child. In early 2011, 40 percent of Belarusian children were aged 0-7 (695,100), 41.3 percent were aged 7-14 (718,100) and 18.7 percent were aged 15-17 (324,200). The birth-rate reached 11.4 per 1,000 population. For over a decade, the country has experienced a fall in infant mortality, with 2010 being no exception. Last year, the rate fell by 15 percent (on 2009) with just four babies dying per 1,000 born. This parameter places Belarus close to developed European states. Modern demographists love to debate how far income affects a family’s desire to have more children. Some believe that rising incomes enable couples to feel confident about their future and, accordingly, give birth to more children. It’s easy to be convinced, as modern young families confirm. The latter know for sure how much money is needed to bring up a child. Meanwhile, their opponents stress that the more disposable income a family enjoys, the less likely it is to desire children, as statistical figures confirm. What then is the solution to this conundrum? Globally known demographers believe that financial support brings a short term spurt to birth-rates,

with a decline following. Accordingly, high incomes do not guarantee high birth-rates. Certain measures must be taken to avoid Belarus’ population dropping to 8.8m by 2020 (following today’s birth and mortality rates). Moreover, the number of under 15s could fall to 1.27m, while the number of pensioners could grow to 2.3m (double

families, as children grew up to help farm the land, working hard. Everyone felt responsible for ‘earning their keep’ and parents had no compunction about allowing children to work. My greatgrandfather Piotr lived in the 19th-20 century Polesie, having three sons and two daughters. He worked hard all his life and managed to give a good education to his boys (one even received higher education). However, his resources did not stretch to educating the girls, as was common for those years. Marriage was seen as the best solution for a girl, so they were primarily taught cooking and sewing; this homespun truth remains topical even today! Belarus is now a country of students, with over 100,000 entering university last year; 13 percent came from villages and 33,000 were enrolled using state funds — up 2 percent on 2005. Belarusian children attend not only schools and higher educational establishments, since the country boasts a well-developed

Belarusian children attend not only schools and higher educational establishments, since the country boasts a well-developed system of pre school education. In late 2010, there were about 6,000 institutions — including 523 children’s schools of art, attended by 105,000 children the number of children). As regards potential mothers, there are enough; by 2015, around 2.5 million women will have children. Vitally, they need to be encouraged to have multiple children, since families with one child currently prevail. According to the 2009 census, single child families accounted for 67 percent of the total, while the number of families with three or more children dropped, comprising just 5 percent. At present, there is much debate over where more children are born: in cities or villages. In fact, the figures are small everywhere, with rural demography demonstrating the worst situation. In the past, villagers tended to have larger

system of pre-school education. In late 2010, there were about 6,000 institutions — including 523 children’s schools of art, attended by 105,000 children. Summer brings long-awaited holidays, with some Belarusian youngsters welcomed at children’s recuperative camps (5,000 camps last year). About 500,000 boys and girls of school age will be improving their health and having fun this year. Is there a quick fix to the world’s demographic problems? We doubt it but an efficient state system of support and public interest in family matters can help, as Belarus is convinced. By Galina Ulitenok

2011 беларусь.belarus

Tourism features

Rural rhapsody Foreign guests choosing Belarusian villages more often, making agro-ecotourism the most promising branch of the national economy

adly, urbanisation is now widespread across Western Europe. Belarus has followed suit, with villagers now comprising a mere 20 percent of residents (down from 30 percent ten years ago). However, more people are now running businesses from villages: not just milk and meat production and grain growing but the new trend of agroecotourism. Anatoly Tozik, the Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Interdepartmental Tourism Expert and Co-ordination Council at the Council of Ministers, believes that agro-ecotourism will be a driving force in reviving Belarusian villages. “Agro-tourism is B elarus’ trademark. We can breathe new life into small villages,” he stresses, resp onding to a report from Valeria Klitsounova, who heads the Country Escape association. She notes that guesthouse owners are showing initiative, purchasing ol d hous e s i n remote village with the aim of developing tourist business.

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The President referred to such guesthouses in his State of the Nation Address to the Belarusian People and National Assembly, saying, “We need to more actively develop processing facilities in the regions, in addition to crafts, small businesses, agro-ecotourism and social and sports infrastructure.” He then added, “Tourists love to stay at simple yet cosy guesthouses.” According to Belarus’ Deputy Sp or ts and Tourism Minister, Cheslav Shulga, by late 2010, Valery Salkovsky and Oksana Salkovskaya, the owners of “Over the Neman” guesthouse (Lida District)

1,247 rural guesthouses were operational, welcoming almost 120,000 guests. Last year, their revenue exceeded Br10bn. In comparison to 2006, the number of agro-ecotourists to the Republic had risen 132-fold! This March, the 2011-2015 State Tourism Development Programme was adopted. Our country already boasts most of the necessary conditions to attract foreign tourists. The Sports and Tourism Minister, Oleg Kachan, believes that rural tourism will go from strength to strength, with 80 percent of holidaymakers preferring guesthouses. According to the Minister, last year, an information centre launched in Warsaw, promoting Belarus as a tourist destination. A similar centre recently opened in Berlin and there are plans to launch another in Paris in the future. Of course, B elar us st i l l has many ab and one d and neglected villages. With this in mind, the Government has two or three pilot projects planned to revive them, establishing small agroecotourism complexes.

Belta

Tourism features

“Over the Neman” guesthouse always celebrates arrival of new guests

Privileged terms for investors are to be offered. Mr. Shulga notes that other plans for the coming five years include reconstructing sites such as isolated farms and ancient family mansions. On November 19th, 2009, the Government adopted a plan of action to bring disused rural homes back into use as tourist accommodation — to be given to private individuals free of charge. Ancient architectural treasures, once home to famous noble families, were offered to applicants able to demonstrate an ability to restore them and a viable business plan. Regional and district executive committees’ websites feature photos and further details. The Deputy Chairman of the Brest Regional Executive Committee, Leonid Tsuprik, tells us that, in 2002, there were 200 such mansions in his region, with another 14 due to be bought in Minsk Region. A chief specialist of the Culture Ministry’s Department for the Protection of Historical and Cultural Heritage and Restoration, Yuri Borisyuk, adds, “However, only 46 18th-early 20th century mansions belonging to former noble families countrywide are

to become tourist sites, in line with the Governmental decision.” The title of Best Guesthouse of 2010 went to Pavlinovo (in Brest Region’s Baranovichi District), which is connected with the poet Adam Mickiewicz. Situated halfway between Baranovichi and Brest, it was revamped by entrepreneur Valery Onipchenko and now resembles a Dutch house in a Belarusian village. “I sold my house in Baranovichi and an expensive car, doing everything possible to start my rural business,” he explains. “I invested $100,000, working day and night to rebuild the house with my own hands. I vaulted the basement, as was common a century ago: first laying rails, then making laps from reinforced steel. I used newspaper ads to find people selling prewar furniture, managing to buy chests and wardrobes which had been many times repaired and repainted. I mended them, adding small items collected in Western Europe.” On entering Pavlinovo, it’s hard to guess which items are 100 years old and which are new. All look polished and lacquered. Even a true antique rarity — a

Dutch watch — looks as if it has just come from the factory. Mr. Onipchenko loves to use his cupboard with Tiffany crystal glass when dining. Some time ago, this was abandoned in an attic, despite its value. Several years ago, many Belarusian villages were considered futureless but times have changed. They are reviving, much owing to enthusiasts like Valeria Klitsounova and Valery Onipchenko. Agro-ecotourism began with a small community of those who loved the countryside: Country Escape. The movement has now gained national status, in just five years of existence. Soon, more services will become available to tourists visiting rural guesthouses. Mr. Shulga proposes that tour operators will oversee groups of houses, with each group sharing facilities. Already, there are many such guesthouses; there are over 300 in Vitebsk Region alone (compared with about 600 across Lithuania). Unsurprisingly, each is doing its best to attract guests. By 2015, Belarus plans to increase revenue from agro-ecotourism 3.5-fold — to Br35bn. By Viktor Korbut

2011 беларусь.belarus

Heritage

ts wooden churches, houses and mansions, constructed over a century ago, are a true rarity, which it is our duty to preserve. According to specialists, Belarus has many sights worth admiring which differ greatly from those in Ukraine and Russia. What does the folk architecture of Eastern Polesie look like?

Mr. Malikov can talk for hours about the history of Polesie architecture, having devoted the past five years to this theme, visiting almost every district in the area, in addition to those in the neighbouring Mogilev Region and Russia’s Bryansk Region. Mr. Malikov has 10,000 photos of 3,500 rare houses. He explains, “Initially, plain and relief carving prevailed,

Wooden past Belarus applied to have the wooden architecture of Polesie included on the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List

Architectural biography

Its richness of house car ving distinguishes Gomel Region from other districts in the country. Openwork lattice frames, eaves and gates decorate houses in villages and cities alike, adding a special flavour to the whole region. The skills involved date back centuries, as Gomel Region has always enjoyed an abundance of fore s t s ; wo o d w a s it s m aj or construction material, with many architectural treasures built from it. Our forefathers viewed the wider world of lands, forests, rivers and the sky as their ‘home’, mimicking its beauties in their smaller homes. This philosophy informed the décor of each wooden house, explains Gomel historian Yevgeny Malikov — a candidate of art studies.

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with axes, knives and scrubbers used to carve decorations which reflected people’s inner view of the material and spiritual world. These motifs explored values, human relations and daily life. Geometric figures were prominent — in the form of the sun, a rhombus or star — alongside images of plants, animals and people; these could symbolise mythological images and revealed perceptions of the surrounding world. In those bygone days, carvings ‘spoke’ their own language, although the meaning of each was gradually lost over the course of time. However, the major themes are still understandable and even modern houses use such images in their carved decoration. Mr. Malikov notes that ‘cottagestyle’ wooden homes are also common

in towns, with the brightest examples found in the city of Gomel, dating back to the late 19th-early 20th century. Local carpenters and carvers had more opportunities to practise their mastery there, being given freedom to explore. Their legacy of wood carvings boasts many rich, decorative elements.

Exact address

You can still see and touch examples of old wooden mastery in Gomel today, visiting rare houses in the historical centre of the city. Miraculously, carved houses remain, with people still resident. Mr. Malikov takes us to Parizhskoi Kommuny Street, not far from the central city square. It boasts numerous w o o d e n h o u s e s , although it’s not very long. Actually, the narrow street is a true o asis of t r a n q u i l l i t y, although noisy Gomel roads pass only a few metres away. “This house is among the top ten most beautiful wooden mansions in Gomel,” stresses Mr. Malikov, approaching a house decorated with carved lattice work. “It was built before the Revolution [1917] and it’s clear that its owner takes care of it.” Suddenly, a passer-by interrupts us; it’s the owner who, after chatting for a while, shows himself to be a true art lover. He invites us in, answering all our questions with pleasure, “We inherited this house from a distant relative, who was a famous Gomel doctor. He built two more houses, for his sons, which passed from one generation to the next. Past owners have taken care to preserve the interior and exterior decorations — such as the glazed tile stove. This was extremely beautiful but, sadly, I had to

Heritage dismantle it last year due to changes in our heating system. However, I’ve kept the bricks and tiles.” He guides us to an outbuilding and we see the bricks laid in strict order. The glazed vignettes which decorated the stove are nearby. He then takes household weights — made in 1822 — and shows us how an old straw clipper operates; the device is still in use. “City tours could include our street,” he smiles, adding, “Historians could talk about décor, styles and symbols, while we could share information about the ‘internal’ biography of our houses. Believe me, an old wooden house is alive, energised with power. We must preserve the best examples of our heritage for future generations.”

Preservation in focus

A general plan for Gomel’s development until 2030 is now being drafted, with architects outlining change over the next two decades. The project envisages the preservation of the city’s wooden architecture, with the Old Town reconstructed at its historical centre. “It is to be located in a particular quarter, at the crossroads of several streets. The site boasts much old wooden and stone architecture,” notes Gomel’s chief architect, Tatiana Usenok. “Our famous historians have asked us to preserve the city’s old houses. The idea is supported by local authorities, being worthwhile, and another site has been allocated for the construction of a museum of Eastern Polesie folk architecture and lifestyle.” According to the plan, examples of old architecture are to be concentrated in these places, with people

remaining resident. Cafes, restaurants, exhibition halls and artistic workshops will operate, while shop s s el l i ng bl a ck s m it hs’, potters’ and weavers’ crafts could open; importantly, the atmosph e re of t h e p a s t n e e d s to b e recreated. Preserving old wooden buildings is no easy task but Belarus is well aware of its importance. Gomel has compiled a list of the 70 most impressive examples of folk architecture, with specialists planning to conduct a technical study of each one. They are eager to discover if the buildings might be relocated for further restorat ion. The most worthy will be acknowledged as architectural m o nu m e nt s a n d , af te r w ard s , construction of the O l d

Town will b egin, probably financed by sponsors or from the local budget. An investment project is another option. The new site should enable Gomel to revive its tourism, attracting an increasing number of visitors. So far, the spirit of bygone days is only truly evident in Gomel’s smaller streets, located in the city’s centre. By Veronika Drozdova

To the point  The UNESCO World Heritage

List currently includes 980 cultural, natural and mixed significance sites. Among them are four Belarusian treasures: Belovezhskaya Pushcha, Mir and Nesvizh castles and the Struve Geodetic Arc.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Vitaliy Gil

Cultural environment

The National Art Museum is usually a crowded place

Unconventional quarter A museum quarter is soon to appear in Minsk. Similar complexes already operate in the largest European cultural centres: Moscow, Amsterdam and Vienna. The Belarusian ‘museum corner’ is to be completed by 2017, established by the National Art Museum and occupying Kirov, Lenin and Marx streets

nitially, a depositary and a restoration centre are to be built. The major building of the Art Museum (at 20 Lenin Street) will be connected with its administrative block (at 22 Lenin Street) via a courtyard of sculptures. An attic floor will appear above the major part of the museum, exhibiting modern Belarusian art. Additionally, the 24 Marx Street building is to be restored; this former hostel will host folk crafts, a café and souvenir shops. At present, the National Art Museum occupies three buildings. In 2006, a new gallery was launched, after

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15 years of construction; this partially solved its need for more space for storage and display but the museum continues to require additional premises. It keeps 20 unique collections but can only exhibit a fraction of these treasures. “We can’t show such unique exhibits as our collection of plaster castings created in the 1960-1970s, donated by Belarus-born Nadia Léger, of France. A collection of Belarus’ decorative-and-applied arts also remains in storage, alongside the 19th-20th centur y Russian graphical pictures and icons,” admits the museum’s Director, Vladimir Prokoptsov, with sorrow.

Heroic architecture

The Belarusian State Great Patriotic War Museum is to move to its new building in Minsk on May 9th, 2014 — now being constructed on a hill near the Minsk — Hero-City Monument and Pobediteley Square. It is to be decorated with a fountain containing 170 jets, representing the 170 towns and villages liberated from the Nazis in Belarus during the war years. Water will cascade down the hill’s slope. Pobedy Park is to undergo reconstruction as well. Construction work began in April 2010; even Sundays saw builders at work. The major block and the dome are to be finished this year, with heating systems

Cultural environment installed before New Year. In 2012, decoration work is to begin. From an architectural point of view, the building is unusual, having an irregular configuration of walls and curvilinear partitions. It symbolises the grandeur of Victory, as well as the power and strength of the army and people, taking the form of ‘an architectural salute’. Its rays will feature sculptural bas-reliefs bearing the names of Soviet Union heroes while a laser show will extend these architectural rays by night, visible from every part of the city. “3D technologies are to be used in the new building,” explains the Belarusian State Great Patriotic War Museum’s Director, Sergey Azaronok. “Visitors will be able to take a virtual tour of other museums with a similar theme; we’re certain it’ll be of interest. We’ll also have a space exhibition, visible from a gallery above. The path of war (or road to Victory to be more exact) is being laid out, travelling up through the building to the first floor, and ending in the dome’s Victory Hall. Visitors will see the entire exhibition by following this path: from the earliest military action to the final Victory. The Victory Hall resembles the dome of Berlin’s Reichstag, symbolically, with a Belarusian flag flying on top. Belarusians helped storm Berlin and the Reichstag; it was the crown of the war, leading towards the fall. The museum is unique, with no others similar existing or even planned in those countries which fought against fascism.”

Cosmic book

Unique Artis Magnae Artilleriae (The Great Art of Artillery), by prominent Belarusian engineer Kazimir Semenovich, has been donated to the National History Museum of Belarus. “The 1730 tract, printed in Frankfurt am Main (Germany), has been presented by an anonymous benefactor who acquired it from an antiquarian book shop in Vienna, with the assistance of Belarusian residents living there,” says Yuri Lavrik, a leading research officer from the museum. The first part of the edition was written by Kazimir Semenovich himself,

while the second was prepared by German artillerist and Captain Daniel Elrich, from records and notes left by the famous Belarusian engineer. The book is decorated with several engravings, made by the German author from Mr. Semenovich’s drawings.

Unique Artis Magnae Artilleriae (The Great Art of Gallery), by prominent Belarusian engineer Kazimir Semenovich, has been donated to the National History Museum of Belarus “This tract sums up the results of engineering investigations from the 17th century. Moreover, it includes data on Kazimir Semenovich’s own discoveries, as well as on his knowledge and experience of engineering. It is the first of its kind,” notes Mr. Lavrik. “After the book was first released, it acquired great popularity. Later, it was re-published many times — in French, German, English and other languages all over the world.” The first edition of The Great Art of Artillery appeared in Amsterdam in 1650,

where Mr. Semenovich substantiated and described in drawings and calculations the idea of a multi-stage rocket. This was the prototype of our contemporary rocket, which launches satellites and space aircraft into orbit today. Mr. Semenovich also invented a delta wing, without which it’s impossible to imagine a contemporary supersonic fighter. The Belarusian was among the first to develop ‘smart weapons’, with a separate section of the tract describing a universal optic-mechanical target and guidance system for weaponry and rockets. Additionally, Mr. Semenovich invented a volley fire rocket system — as used for the famous ‘Katyusha’ missile launcher in WWII. Remarkably, Newton, Peter I and Napoleon studied Mr. Semenovich’s book, as well as Konstantin Tsiolkovsky — the founding father of Russian cosmonautics. The Director of the National History Museum, Sergey Vecher, hopes his museum will gain artefacts not only from the West. “The restitution of cultural treasures from Russia to Belarus is among the most important avenues of our work,” he says.

Secret exhibits

One of Minsk’s newest museums has opened at the KGB’s Military Counterintelligence building, which now houses a historical-demonstrational room. The collection began in 2005, featuring photos, documents and other materials on the history of military counterintelligence. Some information has been given by former counterintelligence agents. A unique device transferring Morse code is among the treasures, dating back to 1943, alongside weaponry and accoutrements, old and new. A fire extinguisher is featured. It contained a secret compartment for a flash card, threatening the security of both Belarus and Russia. Luckily, the spy was detected and the flash card removed. Minsk’s museums are rich in many unexpected exhibits, revealing our past and helping us understand the present. By Viktor Andreev

2011 беларусь.belarus

Neighbours

A good reason for a useful acquaintance Belarus-Latvia relations are now dynamically evolving, both in culture and in business

atvian businessmen are already regular guests to Vitebsk’s investment forums. At present, over 40 f irms with L atvian capital are registered in Vitebsk Region, most involved in construction and wood processing. In 2009, Latvian Daugavpils hosted the Days of Vitebsk Region, gathering representatives from over 60 companies. Latvia is now among the top four largest buyers of Vitebsk Region made products. Speaking of culture, another landmark event was the signing of a co-operative a g re e m e nt b e t w e e n Vit e b s k Regional Executive C ommittee’s Culture Department and Latvia’s Krāslava District Council. An exhibition by L atvian ar tist Andre y Gorgots at Vitebsk’s Centre of Folk Arts is the first step in this sphere. Andrey Gorgots has led an interesting life. He was born in Omsk, graduating from Sverdlovsk’s Art College and, later, working in Siberia. In the early 1990s, he moved to Latvian Jūrmala, with his wife Nina, his assistant and manager. The couple have lived in Krāslava for the past five years. Andrey supports a neoacademic artistic trend, lecturing at

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Andrey Gorgots admires Vitebsk

his own studio. The latter is attended by amateur artists: children, disabled people and pensioners. Life in a small town might seem tranquil, lacking any large cultural events. However, Mr. Gorgots admits that the past year has been full of bright moments. He

Latvia is now among the top four largest buyers

Vitebsk Region made products. Speaking of culture, another

landmark event was the

signing of a co - operative agreement between

Vitebsk

Regional Executive Committee’s Culture Department and Latvia’s Krāslava District Council speaks excitedly of being exhibited at Vilnius’ Russian Gallery. Later, he was invited to France, becoming a member of the Association of Russian Artists of Paris. Andrey then visited Germany, where he gained membership of the European Academy of

Natural Sciences. He is now enjoying attention from Vitebsk residents; Vitebsk has become the first Belarusian city visited by the artist. “My wife and I have wanted to visit Belarus for a long time. We’d heard so many good opinions,” he says. “It’s nice to have eventually gained the opportunity. I hope, in the course of time, that I’ll be able to use my impressions of your city in my artworks.” The canvases on display in Vitebsk are very symbolic, exploring life, love and the aspiration for harmony. They plunge us into a labyrinth of fanciful associations, as if inviting dialogue. The artist admits that he has many fans in Spain, Germany, the USA, Israel, Switzerland, Latvia and Russia. His Vitebsk works feature still-lifes and landscapes of Latvian Latgalia [bordering Belarus — author’s remark]. In his native town, the artist and his wife traditionally organise Krāslava Palette festival, gathering painters from all over Latvia. After the final show, each donates a picture to the town. Andrey says that he would be glad to see Belarusian artists among his guests. His portraits are arousing much attention at the exhibition, depicting famous historical figures such as Peter I, Napoleon, Beethoven, Gauguin and Mozart. “I’ve always been interested in

Monuments poets, writers and artists. I illustrated Alexander Pushkin’s Small Tragedies and now wish to work on Mikhail Bulgakov’s Master and Margarita. In this way I express my attitudes towards each master, with our talents crossing in time and space,” explains Andrey. He notes that he is proud of having a Leonardo da Vinci medal — not long ago awarded to him by Germany’s European Academy of Natural Sciences for his contribution to global culture. The artist is busy in his native Krāslava, making decorations, while painting portraits and icons. While numerous guests at the launch of the exhibition were meeting the artist and viewing his works, the Chairman of Krāslava District Council, Gunārs Upenieks, shared his impressions, “Our administrative division is much smaller than Vitebsk Region. However, regarding culture, there is no such notion as size. This exhibition is the first step towards the realisation of our agreement on border co-operation. Why do we need this? Historically, many Belarusians reside in Latvia, so we need to develop border co-operation and cultural ties — at least for their benefit. Meanwhile, artists are ambassadors, in a certain sense. Today, we open Andrey Gorgots’ exhibition but, tomorrow, joint investment projects might follow.” The Head of Vitebsk Regional E xe c ut ive C om m itte e’s Cu ltu re Department, Vladimir Terentiev, also attended the opening, noting that, in the near future, Latgalia partners will be invited to participate in international festivals in the Vitebsk Region’s district centres. There are plans to invite Latvian folk masters to the International Slavonic Bazaar in Vitebsk Festival of Arts; a large number of Latvians usually attend each year. The Days of Latgalia in Vitebsk could become another interesting project, realised as part of the border cooperation agreement.

Fruits of renovation Scientists to join architects in restoring historical appearance of one of the most famous national architectural monuments: Boris and Gleb Church (Kalozha Church) in grodno

here are plans to restore the church to its 12th century appearance, with archaeologists soon to begin excavating to examine the cultural layers of the adjacent territory. They hope to find the remains of ancient buildings, which will help them learn more about the history of this architectural monument. “Archaeological research has been many times conducted here; the church was repeatedly abandoned, having collapsed and then been rebuilt. Cultural layers have multiplied, so deeper excavations are required, which is what we want to do,” explains Alexander Medvedev, the Chief of the Department for Medieval Archaeology at the Belarusian National Academy of Sciences’ History Institute. It is expected that excavations will be carried out in

several stages. “Boris and Gleb Church is in use, so we don’t want our research to interfere too much with its schedule,” Mr. Medvedev notes. Founded in the second half of the 12th century, it is an ancient specimen of Belarusian architecture, blending Gothic and Renaissance features. Its main architectural feature is its polished coloured boulders, interspersed with ancient bricks, in the masonry walls. Figural ceramic tiles are also present in the walls, showing images of cr ucif ixes a longside geometric shapes. Experts believe the church to be the only surviving building of Grodno’s 12th century architectural school: unique in the history of Eastern Slavs. By Anna Bestenkova

By Sergey Golesnik

2011 беларусь.belarus

Actors and characters

Prestigious titles Are awards really necessary? A priori — yes. History shows us plenty of examples of awards stimulating human creativity. Encouraged by their recognition, people achieve even greater successes. Famous Belarusian actors Tatiana Markhel, Victor Manaev and Igor Sigov were among those Belarusians given high state awards and honorary titles recently — unrivalled in Europe or the Americas

Igor Sigov

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Belta

wards are bestowed in so many areas of human activity: orders, signs, medals, crosses and various statuettes and cups — bronze, silver, gold and crystal. All date from various times and nations. It’s supposed that the predecessors of Olympic Cups were the goblets used by wealthy people, drunk from during Olympic competitions. Lacking anything more substantial to hand, the most distinguished Olympians were presented with wine goblets as gifts. The ‘Golden Palm’ of the Cannes Festival may have originated from a palm frond, as depicted on the Cannes’ coat of arms. From 1986-1987, the higher executive body of the European Union — the European Commission — established an award which is recognised by the European Parliament and the Council of Europe as the most prestigious European prize for cultural achievements. It’s believed to rival that of the Cannes Festival and of the Olympic Games in its status, promoting theatrical art throughout Europe and developing cultural ties. The annual Laurence Olivier Award is considered to be the most prestigious theatrical award worldwide, founded in 1976 in the UK to honour Mr. Olivier’s У аграсядзібах краіны добра адпачываецца lifetime work. The prominent British

Actors and characters theatre and cinema actor played almost every leading Shakespearean role as well as directing and producing films. Each laureate is given a bust of Olivier in the role of Shakespeare’s King Henry V. The American Broadway Tony Award is the closest rival, given to the best actors for their achievements in drama, opera and musicals. Russian Oleg Menshikov, a favourite of Belarusian theatre and cinema lovers, won the Laurence Olivier Award for his role as Sergey Yesenin (a prominent Russian poet) in M. Sherman’s When She Danced, staged at London’s Globe Theatre. Russia has many theatrical awards — the most significant being the ‘Golden Mask’ National Theatre Award of Russia, established by the Union of Theatre Figures of Russia in 1994. A golden lapel badge is given to each winner. Some awards are unique to a particular city — such as the ‘Golden

honorary titles given to prominent personalities in theatre, cinema and music: Honoured Artiste of Belarus and People’s Artiste of Belarus. Belarus also continues the Soviet tradition of awarding titles — a process I must admit that I adore. The best of the best receive their titles regardless of ‘the lack of feasibility’ of such awards. Naturally, it’s right that we recognise the best performances, acting, direction and set design. However, just because an actor wins a prize one year and not the next hardly shows that he is less worthy the following year. Rather, the title of Honoured or People’s Artiste is eternal, recognising true talent. It is not a onetime bonus, such as is given at a company for bumper results. If we look at the history of theatre, we see that the first People’s Artiste within the USSR was famous Russian bass singer

The highest theatrical award of the Belarusian Union of Theatre Figures — ‘Crystal Paulinka’ — was founded in 1992, being first given to Stefaniya Stanyuta, a legendary actress with the Yanka Kupala National Academic Theatre. Now, the prestigious list of laureates, annually announced at a festive ceremony, contains over 20 names Soffit’ of St. Petersburg and the ‘Crystal Turandot’ of Moscow. The highest theatrical award of the Belarusian Union of Theatre Figures — ‘Crystal Paulinka’ — was founded in 1992, being first given to Stefaniya Stanyuta, a legendary actress with the Yanka Kupala National Academic Theatre. Now, the prestigious list of laureates, annually announced at a festive ceremony, contains over 20 names. This March, Vera Kavalerova, an actress with the Young Spectators’ Theatre, was awarded the prize. Other Belarusian awards are unique worldwide. These include

Fiodor Shalyapin. Back in 1918, the Council of People’s Commissars awarded him the title after he charmed everyone at his concerts. The revolutionary party elite were among his grateful fans and, from that time, the notion of a People’s Artiste came into general use, noting one unconditionally honoured by everyone: art connoisseurs and ordinary fans. The title of People’s Artiste of the USSR was founded at the decision of the Central Executive Committee of the USSR, adopted at a session in January 1937. The title was awarded to outstanding art figures from Soviet

nations who especially distinguished themselves on stage, screen and through music. It was noted: ‘…The conferment of the honourary title of People’s Artiste of the USSR is performed at the recommendation of the Culture Ministry of the USSR, the USSR State Committee for Cinematography, the USSR State Committee for Television and Radio Broadcasting, the Board of the USSR Cinematographers’ Union and the Union of USSR Composers. Those awarded the honourary title of People’s Artiste of the USSR are given a certificate of merit from the Presidium of the USSR Supreme Soviet (Council), a lapel badge and a certificate. The lapel badge is to be worn on the right breast, placed underneath Soviet orders, if there are such…’ The first artistes awarded the honourary People’s Artiste of the USSR title were Konstantin Stanislavsky and Vladimir Nemirovich-Danchenko, who created the famous system of method acting, known worldwide as Stanislavsky’s system. Russian actors Vasily Kachalov and Ivan Moskvin were also honoured and the tradition continued for more than fifty years. In December 1991, prominent Russian stage and screen actors Oleg Yankovsky and Sofia Pilyavskaya were the last to receive the title. People’s Artiste of the USSR Gennady Ovsyannikov, of the Yanka Kupala National Academic Theatre, was among the last awarded from Belarus with this title. Over 1,000 people from the huge former multi-national Soviet Union wore and continue to wear this title. The title of People’s Artiste of Belarus was conferred even earlier. In 1928, Vladislav Golubok, an actor, playwright and stage director, became the first to hold the title. He was also a set designer for his performances. In those times, Golubok’s company was famous countrywide for successfully staging vaudevilles; his actors were extremely musical. The musical section was headed by Nestor Sokolovsky, who wrote the State anthem of Belarus. Mikhail Luchenok, the father of prominent composer Igor

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Actors and characters acting, so I can confidently assure you that they deserve their titles. Tatiana Markhel is now a People’s Artiste of Belarus, currently working with the Belarusian Drama Theatre. She has played many complex roles and possesses generous comedic and dramatic talent. However, her true forte is her Belarusian mentality — recognisable not only in the role of an old peasant woman but in the role of opera singer Ingrid who loses her voice (in Bergman’s Women). Looking at Tatiana in this role, you can’t but love her masterful use of her national identity for the European character. In 2003, at the International Golden Vityaz Festival in Moscow, Ms. Markhel was awarded ‘Best Female Role’ for the work.

“Undoubtedly, I felt grateful to my theatre, which recommended me, and to the country’s authorities. I felt some special warmth when I imagined how my loved ones would be glad for me.”

Victor Manaev

Tarasov also deserves mention, being a People’s Artiste of the USSR and an actor with the Yanka Kupala Theatre. He was the first to receive the title among those who graduated from the Belarusian Theatre and Art Institute (now, the Academy of Arts) — at the age of 48. At 23 years old, he became an Honoured Artiste and, at 29, was awarded the title of People’s Artiste of Belarus. Unfortunately, the great master has now passed away. ndoubtedly, every actor (like any good warrior) who gains fame, has t h e i r ow n marks of distinction in the public eye. I’d like to name three personalities, for whom public applause have recently ‘materialised’ into honourary titles. I’ve seen each perform many times; on each occasion, I’ve admired their

U 42

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Ms. Markhel is unique in having an inborn talent for playing ‘B e l a r u s i a n’ rol e s ; s om e women have to study thorou g h ly, going to live in a village to really

understand rural life and play a peasant woman. Ms.

Markhel has the talent in her genes; it is there whether she likes it or not, full of ‘Belarusian national flavour’. This vividly manifests itself in her expressions and gestures, body language and intonation. She began her acting career with the Yakub Kolas Belarusian State Academic Theatre in Vitebsk. Over twenty years, she became known as a national drama actress, playing roles in plays by Belarusian classical writers: Yakub Kolas, Vladimir Korotkevich and Alexey Dudarev. Her striking Belarusian peasant women are cult classics of Belarusian cinema. Her acting career entered a new stage when she joined the Belarusian Drama Theatre in 1993. Over the decades, she has played roles from Shakespeare, alongside those created by contemporary playwrights, conjuring up bright and memorable images. Of course, her talent for playing peasant women has revealed itself even more in Minsk. Additionally, Ms. Markhel sings wonderfully — especially when performing folk songs, which she collects. She is also known as an interpreter of ceremonial (ritual) singing

Victor Manaev

Vita liy Gil

Luchenok, masterfully played the violin for the troupe. Legendary Stefaniya Stanyuta began her career with Golubok’s Travelling Theatre, which boasted a unique national flavour. Its audiences adored and admired the actors’ sharp jokes and wit and, of course, their folk dances and songs. Those bestowed with honourary titles in the cultural sphere are great in number, including Vladimir Tkachenko, who became the country’s first guitarist to be awarded. His best guitar solos were performed during his days with famous Pesnyary band, headed by Vladimir Mulyavin. Now, the outstanding musician and arranger works with the National Concert Orchestra of Belarus, conducted by Mikhail Finberg. Victor

cycles and has represented our country at international folk festivals in Lithuania, Estonia, R u s s i a , Ukraine, Poland, the USA and elsewhere. Her colleague Igor Sigov has been awarded the title of Honoured Artiste

Actors and characters Tatiana Markhel

Alexander Ruzhechka

of Belarus. He joined the Belarusian Drama Theatre a year after Tatiana, having graduated from the Acting Department. He immediately made a name for himself, boasting a rare and courageous charm — unusual for a Slav. This may be why he later gained recognition at the Melpomene of Tavria International Festival, held in Ukrainian Kherson, in 2006. He was awarded a diploma ‘For Stage Embodiment of the Depth of the Slavonic Soul’ for his role in Eternal Song, based on Yanka Kupala’s dramatic poem. Mr. Sigov has a tight working schedule at the theatre, always being engaged in a production. He has played many complex roles — from Edgar in Shakespeare’s King Lear to Trigotin in Anton Chekhov’s Seagull and Svidrigailov in Yelena Popova’s Sonechka (based on Dostoevsky). He has been often invited to perform with other theatres too. He took on the role of Khludov in Mikhail Bulgakov’s Run, staged at the Maxim Gorky National Academic Drama Theatre, and has also graced the screen. He has liaised with Belarusian and Russian film directors, while acting in a short feature film directed by Irish Juanita Wilson (nominated for an Oscar in 2010). Fans were able to see their favourite actor dressed in a dinner suit (hastily sewn for him by Minsk’s creative studio on the eve of his departure), walking the red carpet alongside Hollywood celebrities such as Quentin Tarantino, Tom Cruise and Meryl Streep. In one interview, he admitted that he experienced a whole range of feelings: fear, pride and joy… We can also feel joy for our countrymen who grace the stage and screen. I’m proud of talented Victor Manaev, an Honoured Artiste of Belarus and an actor with the Yanka Kupala Theatre, who I’ve interviewed previously for our magazine (Victor Manaev: ‘Life’s Secrets Become Evident on Stage’, #8/2008). He is now a People’s Artiste of Belarus, as he deserves to be, having long gained public recognition. Audiences flock to see him, asking box offices which plays

he’s performing in at the Yanka Kupala Theatre. He’s visited Poland over 20 times, playing Kryuchkov in Wincenty DuninMarcinkiewicz’s Pinsk Gentry (directed by Nikolay Pinigin), staged at Warsaw’s Rampa Theatre. Actors and audiences have ‘fallen in love’ with Manaev. I call Victor to congratulate him and ask how he feels about his new title. “Of course, I was surprised. It was somehow unexpected,” notes the actor. “What did I feel? Undoubtedly, I felt grateful to my theatre, which recommended me, and to the country’s authorities. I felt some special warmth when I imagined how my loved ones would be glad for me. My fans won’t be indifferent either, although they won’t applaud me less or more depending on whether I have the title of People’s Artiste. I’m pleased that many of my friends and acquaintances can take pleasure in my achievement. They’ve called me to offer congratulations. There’s something positive in our tradition, which is lacking in Western Europe; I haven’t gained insight into this yet.”

Of course, audiences love actors not for their titles or awards but for their talent. These servants of Melpomene allow us to feel life more sharply: its joys and sorrows. They also encourage us to dream and to look at ourselves objectively, seeing our weaknesses and strengths.

***

Undoubtedly, alongside Honoured and People’s Artistes, others deserve acknowledg ment for their stage work. Let’s hope that everyone who deserves recognition will, in time, receive it. Opportunities expand annually ; recently, the National Theatrical Award was launched. The selection board has already determined which per formances will take part in a festival scheduled for September in Minsk. The jury is known as the Theatre Academy, comprising up to 200 representatives of theatrical society. They’ll decide who deserves this great honour. By Valentina Zhdanovich

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Theatrefestivals

he fe st iv a l b e g an i n December 1989, when the heads of theatres from three neighbouring cities — Russian Bryansk, Belarusian Gomel and Ukrainian Chernigov — decided to establish a common theatrical space. Slavonic Theatrical Meetings aimed to become an interregional centre of communication, exchanging ideas and artistic projects. Since then,

Ukraine, Moldova, Poland, Hungary, Germany and Albania. The format of Slavonic Theatrical Meetings remains unchanged, envisaging a Grand Prix award for the best performance and eight nominations for the most successful directors and actors. Although the post-Soviet space boasts a great diversity of festivals, this forum stands apart, with its strong ‘Slavonic’ spirit. Performances must be based on Slavonic drama, with only premieres admitted.

Live stage In May, Belarus’ cultural capital of Gomel hosted the 11th International Slavonic Theatrical Meetings Festival — a bright event in theatrical life, known far beyond the CIS it has been annually organised in Bryansk and Chernigov, with Gomel hosting once every three years. Over the years, the artistic forum has changed from a regional to an international event, gathering teams from Russia, Belarus,

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“Speaking of national B elar usian, Russian and Ukrainian theatre, we mean Slavonic theatrical culture,” explains Richard Smolsky, the Chairman of the Belarusian Un i on of

Literature and Art Critics, discussing the festival’s defining feature. “We are all rooted in psychological theatre, which is the theatre of truth and realism, where

the human spirit is vital. We rely on acting artistry, so the festival’s organisers endeavour to preserve this tradition.” In fact, this is not the only mission of the forum. It also cherishes the purity of national language: all performances are staged in the actors’ native languages. Moreover, the level of staging is vital.

Spirituality and morality

The 11th International Slavonic Theatrical Meetings Festival was held under the motto ‘For Spirituality and Morality’. Fifteen theatres were expected but, at the last minute, Berlin’s Russian Stage Theatre failed to arrive, as did the Ivan Franko National Academic Drama Theatre (Ukraine). As a result, only thirteen theatres performed. Among them were Belarus’ Yanka Kupala National Academic Theatre, the Moscow Drama Theatre on Perovskaya, the Russian Spiritual Theatre Glas, Moldova’s State Youth Drama Theatre — From the Street of Roses, the Chernigov Regional Academic Musical Drama Theatre named after Taras Shevchenko, the Gomel Regional Drama Theatre, the Gomel Y o u t h Theatre, and the Mozyr Drama Theatre.

Alexey Kazelo and Valentina Gartsuyeva were recognized the best acting duet

Theatrefestivals Diverse performances were given, including time tested classical Slavonic dramas and modern satire. The Yanka Kupala National Academic Theatre’s love

— including those dealing with the future of theatrical art. What place will it come to occupy and will it be able to coincide with the interests of today? Will

Richard Smolsky :

“Speaking of national Belarusian, Russian and Ukrainian theatre, we mean Slavonic theatrical culture. We are all rooted in psychological theatre, which is the theatre of truth and realism, where the human spirit is vital. We rely on acting artistry.” story, set during the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945, when life and death went hand in hand, left a lasting impression. Meanwhile, Russian Spiritual Theatre Glas’ Grand Duchess Romanova transported the audience back to the last century, during the 1917 Revolution, when the royal family was murdered. Eternal themes of spiritual and moral dilemmas prevailed, showing the impetuous rhythm of life and values true and false. The festival was a true gift to all present, showing that theatre is alive and kicking; the cinema and Internet cannot compete with the power of a stage performance.

Thinking of the future

This year, the festival has become a s erious intellectual venue for discussing the future of theatrical art. Actually, theatre is widely represented across the post-Soviet space, with capitals, regional centres and large cities having their own theatrical troupes. Gomel, for example, is known for its regional drama, youth and puppet theatres, which have contributed much to the spirituality of people. However, in our modern days, theatres are living through hard times. The rapid development of information technologies poses many questions

it retain its influence or are serious changes needed? “We are living through a turning point in modern thinking,” notes Doctor of Art Studies, Prof. Tatiana Kotovich, from Vitebsk State University. “Theatre has some aspects in common with the computer, since both exist within a virtual space. Audiences observe from outside, being unable to interfere in the action, yet feel their presence inside. A similar process takes place within a computer, though another technology is used. The new generation is bringing the wind of change, since people think in a new way. Where we once relied on written realities, we now have screened reality — another revolution in development. Will the theatre be able to develop within this context?” The Editor-in-Chief of Russia’s Teatralnaya Zhizn (Theatrical Life) magazine, Oleg Pivovarov, believes the theatre can move with the times. He views stage performances as vital to society, reflecting the problems and hopes, defeats and victories, and joys and sorrows of humanity; the theatre encapsulates philosophical ideas. Those who work in theatre tend to stress that the method is not as important as what is shown to audiences. How far is theatre responsible for guiding our morality? Modern theatre should inspire an

emotional response — as we also see in modern soap operas. However, it should also inspire contemplation. People should be moved to reconsider their lives, enabling them to hold on to true values. Vyacheslav Spesivtsev, the Director of the Moscow Youth Theatre, arrived at the Gomel event from the Youth Festival, held simultaneously in one of the Russian regions. He admitted his sharp interest in the forum, saying, “I probably have old-fashioned views of theatre, since I’m convinced that it helps the nation on the whole and individuals in particular. It should form part of a nation’s upbringing.”

Last traces

The festival ended with intrigue, t h e j u r y h ot l y d e b at i n g w h i c h performance deserved the Grand Prix. They could not choose between Not Mine, by the Yanka Kupala National Academic Theatre (Minsk), and Grand Duchess Romanova, by the Russian Spiritual Theatre Glas (Moscow), so awarded them both. Love Etudes, by the Griboyedov State Drama Theatre (Smolensk), was awarded for best production (interestingly, Vitaly Barkovsky is a Belarusian director) while Vladislav Karako, f rom G omel’s Regional Drama Theatre, was named best male actor. Tatiana Belevich, from the Glas Theatre, took the title of best actress and the jury highly praised Boris Gerlovan’s set designs for Not Mine. The Yanka Kupala National Academic Theatre’s Alexey Kozelo and Valentina Gartsueva won the title of best duo. The festival’s ‘Theatrical Hope’ prize was awarded to Grigory Zhuravlev and Anna Bartashevish, of the Gomel Drama Theatre, while Arina Revnivykh, from Moldova’s State Youth Drama Theatre — From the Street of Roses, received the same award. The next Slavonic Theatrical Meetings Festival will be held in Gomel in 2014. By Viktoria Demidovich

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Creativity

Cosmos of his soul 46

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rtist Anatoly Kuznetsov places his impressions, associations and moods on canvas. His pictures are inspired by his observations of the world around him. It is born anew in the artist’s soul and wonderful pictures appear. Mr. Kuznetsov does not simply depict his impressions but creates his own world — a true cosmos as yet unexplored. His artistry is based purely on intuition. “On approaching a clean canvas, I don’t know what I’ll paint upon it. Images are born during improvisation,” he says. Actually, Anatoly’s pictures rarely depict concrete objects; his contours are vague, dissolving in space, lacking objectivity while favouring spiritual thoughts and feelings. To understand the soul of this painter, we met at his workshop, surrounded by his beloved pictures. While showing us his works, Anatoly answered my questions. As I understand, all your life has been connected with pictorial art. Why is this? How did your artistic career begin? I came to art rather late in life. I lived in a village in Russia’s Bryansk Region. One day, I came to a painting studio and was lucky. My teacher was wonderful: Victor Vorobiev graduated from the St. Petersburg Academy with honours. How did you come to Belarus? During my service with the army, I had to choose where to study further: in St. Petersburg or Moscow. Intuitively, I felt that St. Petersburg’s Repin Academy was conservative but still chose Minsk — thinking that a local academy would be less conservative. Those thoughts had no grounds but still they guided me. As a result, I entered the institution and began studying. Some time later, my intuitive ideas on freedom in art came true. I

Creativity could be free. Why am I telling you this? In those days, my friend studied at the St. Petersburg Academy and I often visited him, drawing pictures at the Circle (or Compasses) at night — it was where everyone gathered to draw. I felt then that I was right: I felt more comfortable in Minsk. I could express myself during studies — although many teachers adhered to the Moscow or St. Petersburg school of painting. In general, the atmosphere was different. What was the major feature of the Belarusian artistic school at that time? We had very good teachers. They boasted perfect backgrounds, being true painters in their souls. Being emotional, they expressed their qualities in lecturing, while also providing students with the chance to show their ability. They worked sincerely. Our studies followed strict academic rules but, at the same time, I could easily improvise. I was fortunate. What inspired you to head for artistic freedom? I loved colours… and love them even now. I always feel excited when I see them. Sometimes, this was to the detriment of my drawing. The St. Petersburg school denied this approach, claiming that drawing must be above all. However, it always happens: a painter who is a colourist in his soul will never be equally good at drawing. It’s a well-known truth. When you paint with broad brushes and strokes, you inevitable damage the drawing. However, I cannot say that I drew badly. I was on the same level as others and my grades were high. I even checked myself against the level of the St. Petersburg school: my teacher Piotr Krokholev let me go to St. Petersburg. I

then ‘disappeared’ for a week, drawing in the city on the Neva River. Shouldn’t the teachers have understood you? Piotr Krokholev, a famous Belarusian artist, painted in a different manner… He was also a colourist. He understood colours, also drawing with broad strokes. Mr. Krokholev followed the Soviet school of painting when other topics reigned: builders, villagers,

workers and military. Of course, there were also lyrical themes but that generation of artists lacked deep inner trials. Mr. Krokholev and others were probably colourists but they were also realists. I was also a realist at that time. A peach should be velvet and a pepper should be crippled; I made them such then. Today, many art lovers prefer to return to our Belarusian artists’ earlier works. They say that, in the 1960s, a more professional school was observed — in comparison to the modern artistry of young painters. They believe that the level of painting from those years should guide the younger generation. Can you

compare our modern pictorial art and that observed during the years of your studies? Has so much changed? We cannot compare the two, as those were different times — just as we cannot compare modernity with the 18th century. I can only say that the school has become weaker. Our former teachers have gone and the succession is not there. Simply put, we lack pictorial art departments at the Arts Academy. We need academic and modern painting — as exists in the Czech Republic for example. There, the local Academy has four departments of pictorial art — as is absolutely correct. We all seek individuality. If you wish to become an academic painter, you choose an academic workshop. You work in the field of abstract art now. You probably have your own understanding but can you explain the essence of this trend? I’ve been preparing for this for a long time. While working in the figurative sphere, I also tried to escape its dictates. I tried to shift it towards the pictorial state. Naturally, sooner or later, I would have come to abstraction — or, to be more correct, to objectless pictorial art. What does this mean to me? That I’ve rid myself of the dictate of imposed themes. I’ve learnt to think via the subconscious, which has its own vibrations and links — for numerous different reasons: through sound and taste. My ear sees as well as my eye. I don’t refute any colour; on the contrary, I shift towards them. For me, colours exist freely, speaking of sadness and joy — every emotion and nuance of feeling. When painting, do you imagine a future audience? Would you like others to understand your ideas? Or are you

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Creativity moving along a subjective and realistic path — drawing those things which are only clear to yourself? Honestly, I try to ‘hear’ myself. It’s impossible to be understood by all, but perhaps one, two or a dozen may gain understanding. I have many acquaintances who wish to discuss my work and, when this communications occurs, I reveal my path to the audience. This is how ‘my own’ viewers are found — at personal exhibitions. When you organise meetings and round tables, with regularity, you manage to make people who wish to do so understand. Those who do not want to understand simply do not come. You have ‘your own’ pictorial art at present. With this in mind, is it more difficult for you than for other artists working, for example, with figurative images? Do you feel that it’s not easy for you to find your own audience? Or does any artist have their own audience? Does this worry you? Of course, every artist has their own audience, whatever their style. Realistic works abound yet we sadly lack true objectless pictorial art. Rather, emasculation is common: rhythm is absent, replaced by colour. It has been a European trend for some time. An artist needs to know themselves well, to define their inner priorities. I know my own: colour! This forms rhythms which then link into systems and trends. However,

it has a price. In Belarus, there are many talented artists, as there are in France, Holland and Belgium. They are well-known, with their own genres and style. They are recognisable and adhere to certain traditions. We had a perfect school and our ability to create academic styled artworks is wonderful.

“An artist needs to know themselves well, to define their inner priorities. I know my own: colour!” development is a different matter. You must never stop working if you want to see progress. I’ve transformed over time but do my best to do this organically, without rattling from one side to the other. If we compare the Belarusian school of pictorial art and the fine arts of modern Europe, we notice that objectless painting is quite common there... This is what I’m speaking about. You might wish for freedom but

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People still explore themselves within this: our, Belarusian, artists. Do you speak about the school which can train even ordinary pupils to become professionals? Or do you mean bright personalities? How much is an artist’s personality affected by the school of Belarusian pictorial art? Of course, all our fine arts have their own personalities, although they are few in number. For me, Zoya Litvinova is notable, being mature; she does not

simply paint but paints her state of soul, which stands high. She communicates, which is a rare talent. Many lack depth of their inner feeling. Many collectors are interested in Belarusians artists’ earlier works, created when almost no avant-garde objectless pictorial art existed. Why is this? There is a simple explanation: those times will never be repeated. The British Museum has long embraced works from every nation and genre. We lack such a museum, although there has been one in the past. Pictures from the 18th century and those created by Dutch masters are being popularly collected these days, as the past is forever gone. This proves that everything has its season. Do you mean that modernday artists will also be collected in the future? They are already being collected. Modern times are not simple in the field of art. An ordinary person can hardly

Creativity

distinguish what is good and what is bad. They need training to understand trends; lacking knowledge, they act intuitively. W h e n s t u dy i ng at t h e Ar t s Institute, did you have a bright style, such as distinguishes today’s Anatoly Kuznetsov? Of course not; style comes with time... and effort. Did your teachers understand you? Yes. Where there any who did not? I was not a dissident. I worked, studied and did my best. There was almost no information about pictorial styles. We had only brochures — like ‘The Ideology of Bourgeois Culture’ — and the trends which supported them. I saw this but did not understand. I don’t view myself as a purely avant-garde painter; there is no need. I’m not turning the world upside down. I feel that I can reveal myself and say something of my own.

What is your attitude towards exhibitions? Is a show an event for you? Would you like to have your own exhibitions? Or are you indifferent? No. I’m not indifferent. I’ve had many exhibitions and am trying to organise them more often. The trend for visiting such exhibitions is gathering force again, although some halls are so badly lit, you hardly notice what’s on show. For some time, I decided not to exhibit my works but I now believe that an artist needs exhibitions: to help them gain an objective view. Pictures live here [in his studio — editor] — with their artist. At an exhibition, they take on new life. Artists need to assess what should be done to advance, to become more convincing and active. Exhibitions are important for any artist. An artist spends many hours alone in his studio. What do you usually think of while drawing? I have many thoughts. I sometimes think of giving up! It’s hard work, with great pressure to succeed. Each fresh

canvas presents a new challenge, with much effort required: physical and emotional. Difficult periods occur, when I fail to find the right colours or images. Then, I think of giving up. However, I come to my studio again the next day and start working again — succeeding and winning. Do your pictures have names? Of course, being united into series; ‘White Suite’, with figurative works, was my first and has continued through my career, followed by ‘Colouristic Spaces’ and ‘Light Vibrations’. ‘The Valley of Pharaohs’ is quite unusual: I’d never before thought of being eager about the theme of Egypt. What do their names mean? ‘White Suite’ embraces white canvases and their nuances. Drawing through white colour presupposes a delicate soul. They are small works, which reflect tender feelings. They can hardly be explained in words. Drawing with undertones is a delicate job. It’s a series which has continued through all my life, since I’ve added to it when I’ve felt in the right mood. Time passes and I return to this cycle, when ready again. Everyone has different moods, today and tomorrow. However, there are times when your mood remains almost unchanged. The s a m e trend is

observed here as well. A realistic painter depicts a certain plot

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Creativity

or theme but you use colour and other elements to reflect the diversity of our reality. Are these enough for you?

My themes are f lexible, with moving rhythms which can relax, intensify or shift. Colour transitions from warm to cold, and vice versa. These govern themselves, with the space dictating its wishes to me. It moves and talks, helping me. Contact is conducted i nt u i t i v e l y, w i t h deep and philosophical spaces also existing. There are many such spaces and, when they accumulate, they create a general ‘themed’ canvas. When did you have your last personal exhibition? It w as org an is e d i n 2 0 0 7 , to coincide with my 60th birthday. I usually organise group shows twice a year, in Moscow. With the help of the Muscovites, we set up a galler y of abstract painting in May. I plan to organise my next personal exhibition in 2012, at Minsk’s Palace of Arts. Have you ever been exhibited in Europe? Of course.

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When was that and how did it come to happen? For the first time in my life, I visited Paris; we took part in local exhibitions, through the Nemiga Association. There was a serious reaction to the works. What are your artistic plans? There are many. I’m now drawing a series relating to the philosophy of Chinese Lao Tzu (3rd century BC). His ‘Canon of Reason and Virtue’ discusses the perfection of the human soul. Its texts chime with me, as I understand how we find ourselves. I often muse on this. My series is entitled ‘Metaphor of Forgotten Truths’. I’m trying to record texts through painting. It’s not going smoothly. I failed to work on it over the winter, so it is only finished in part and lacks full emotional expression. I need to understand Chinese characters, as it’s impossible to record thoughts by image alone. I plan to find a Chinese person who understands my idea, so we can work jointly. If you had enough time, what would you paint? I tend to draw emotional pieces, having only created three realistic

Creativity

works. I often visit lakes and feel close to nature; I never thought I’d come home on arriving in Belarus but this is my place. It inspired me to paint ‘Remembering Kurosawa’. In March, I was sitting beside a lake, by the old reeds. It was snowing but the snowflakes were floating in the air rather than falling. I connected that feeling with Kurosawa. Being a neorealist, he used contrasts. In Belarus, I perceive

Being an artist of objectless painting, what is most important to you? When nerve endings are connected, they form a united whole. It’s impossible to say for sure why this happens in a particular way. Some ideas are visually inspired but it’s hard to explain their origin. I live and feel, so have many emotions which are a materialisation of my environment and my personal upbringing. Certain things

Anatoly Kuznetsov ’s pictures rarely depict concrete objects; his contours are vague, dissolving in space, lacking objectivity while favouring spiritual thoughts and feelings emotional vibrations not only through colour but hearing and smell. Would you have received the same inspiration elsewhere? The colours are different here. I’ve been brought up with them. I suppose that most of your works are based on your inner feelings and your own imagination. Only a small share is inspired by external objects.

are naturally close to me; I can easily paint trees and houses reflected in water. I draw from nature yet see what others fail to notice, what ordinary people never see. Are you an optimistic artist? I don’t think I’m an optimist, though I’m quite positive in my soul. Do you often correct yourself as you paint?

Of course, always; the result never comes immediately. I’m very demanding of colour. Even if I fail to combine two ideas, I’ll never give up on a painting; I feel obliged to combine them and work spontaneously. A hard process emerges, where I need to ‘switch on’ my consciousness. I may spend an hour without a brush in my hand, thinking. It’s a very useful method. Being an artist is not a profession but a state of being. You must move towards yourself. There is no need to assert yourself; this is a mistake. I don’t wish to be fashionable; I want to be myself. I instruct young artists to follow their own hearts. My teacher once told me, “Pictorial art is a woman who never excuses treason.” I endured a crisis once, failing to work well — even academically. It lasted for three years. I then destroyed everything I’d created and asked my teacher for advice. “Victor Vasilievich, I don’t know what to do. I’m lost,” I told him. He replied, “Go to the attic and search for where you began.” This was 1979. I then moved to Minsk and began working. I felt where my path should lead. By Viktor Mikhailov

2011 беларусь.belarus

Style and stylistics Unique collections and new trends of Belarusian fashion showcased by designers from Belarus and Europe on Minsk catwalks

Belta

High demand for beautiful clothing 52

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estivals of design art present us with new names in the field of fashion, with collections by young B elarusian designers judged by foreign experts and the best awarded with foreign internships. This May, Minsk’s Palace of Sports gathered designers from London, Berlin, Milan, Moscow, Vilnius, Barcelona and Riga, while guests from Copenhagen demonstrated clothes created by first-year students from the Danish Design School. “Scandinavians are notable for their minimalism. Their clothes are structural and architectural. We love to play with proportions, with clothes often not adjusted to individual figures,” explains the Danish Design School’s Rector, Gitte Christoffersen. The Ukrainian brand of Golda was presented in Belarus for the first time. “A woman is a treasure. Clothes are her frame and they must accent — rather than shadow — the beauty of their owner,” stresses designer Golda Vinogradskaya. Her Unlike Anyone Else collection looks anew at soft knitwear, with coral, chocolate, maroon and beige colours reigning; each piece is extremely feminine. Experts in fashion state that young Belarusians designers’ collections can be characterised as ‘incredibly chic, provocative and avant-garde’. Those with the most extravagant designs have been offered foreign internships, while four are to demonstrate their collections at the Russian Silhouette finals in Russia, representing Belarus. This year, 11 prêt-

Style and stylistics à-porter collections went down the runway; Olga Borodey, Maria Boyarovskaya, Yekaterina Burak, Leor Gofman, Anna Dragotsennaya, Yulia Latushkina, Natalia Lyakhovets, Yavazhina Miklashevich, Yekaterina Safonova and Apti Eziev gave a worthy show. They shall outline designs in Belarusian fashion in coming years. The Belorussian Fashion Week (BFW) was organised for the second time this spring. Professional designers demonstrated their vision of 2011/2012 autumn-winter fashion. BFW primarily aims to create favourable conditions for prêt-àporter development in Belarus, while promoting the popularisation of designer clothes. In Minsk, designers

To the point

from Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, Serbia and elsewhere met, showing that Belarusian clothes can rival global brands. Prigоzhaev Dima gave us a new collection of footwear, inspired by the Northern lights, using natural and lacquered leather, chamois and woollen linings in diverse colours. In turn, Boitsik offered women Office Romance for the forthcoming autumn-winter season. Irina Boitsik focused mainly on dresses from the 1940s-1950s and modern sheath dresses. Meanwhile, Lena Tsokalenko demonstrated her woman’s collection in delicate black, grey and beige tones, complemented with rich handwork. Yanina Goncharova, who heads the Belorussian Fashion Week project, summed up the results, saying, “The catwalks met all rules, i nclu d i ng s e m i nars, show rooms and parties. Fore i g n c ol leagues joined Belarusian designers, showing that our industry is included in European processes.” By Viktor Karafa

 Belarusian models enjoy great demand abroad. At New York

Fashion Week, Anastasia Belikova (Anabela) and Katya Kosushkina appeared on the catwalk 15 times. Anabela closed the show for Ohne Titel, also working with 3.1 Phillip Lim, Diesel Black Gold, DKNY, Edun, Honor, J. Mendel, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Nicole Miller, Thakoon, Theyskens’ Theory, Tibi, Vera Wang and Victoria Beckham. In turn, Katya Kosushkina opened Honor, and modelled for 3.1 Phillip Lim, the Academy of Art University, Charlotte Ronson, Jenni Kayne, Karen Walker, L’Wren Scott, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Marc Jacobs, Nanette Lepore, Peter Som, Richard Chai Love, Thakoon, Tory Burch and Wayne. Katya Zingarevich (Domankova) also participated in top shows. After the Victoria’s Secret 2010 show, she was featured in the brand’s advertising commercials and in its catalogue, which catapulted her career to a new level. For several previous seasons, Katya mostly appeared as a photo model but the recent New York Fashion Week saw her on the catwalks of Oscar de la Renta, Derek Lam, Altuzarra and Ruffian, while closing Carolina Hererra’s show.

Time only enhances this masterpiece Opera and Ballet Theatre stages Aida, by Giuseppe Verdi, in 19th century style

he original costumes and sets for Aida were designed by Yevgeny Chemodurov for his staging in Bucharest in 1953. The People’s Artist of Belarus and Honoured Figure of Arts of Russia, Lithuania and Tajikistan is known as a legend to the Belarusian Bolshoi Theatre and restoring his original creations has been no easy task. Few set sketches remain, so today’s designers have had to read between the lines, using black and white photos to decide what must have inspired Mr. Chemodurov. His original sketch books and drawings have also provided vital information. Despite its large scale, the show is quite compact, able to be performed on any stage worldwide. In fact, the modern version differs in scale, power and pomposity — as characterised by Mr. Chemodurov’s set designs and the style of grandopera. “Its peculiar feature is its traditionalism,” the director stresses. Aida occupies a special place for the Belarusian Opera and Ballet Theatre, being a popular performance. It was first staged by the company in 1953 by Belarusian singer Larisa Alexandrovskaya, director Lev Lyubimov and artist Sergey Nikolaev and has remained on the circuit for 55 years.

2011 беларусь.belarus

Sport

Persuasive beauty European Championships in Rhythmic Gymnastics become unusual tournament for Belarusian capital

he hosting of any European C h a mpi on s h i p mu s t be deserved. It is never bestowed lightly. Belarus has just hosted its first gymnastic tournament of such high ranking — although our gymnasts have many times won medals at world events and at the Olympics. The honour of host is given in recognition of merit and the place occupied in global rankings. Of course, the Olympics are due to take place next summer. In Minsk, the leading gymnasts were making their first step towards qualifying for London. Gymnastics is a highly visual sport, arousing an emotional response. The complexity and accuracy of each exercise is only part of the attraction. It may be that the gymnasts in attendance had only seen venues to rival Minsk-Arena at the Olympics, so our Belarusian medals are even more valuable in these circumstances.

Show-parade

In gymnastics, medals are always valuable. Some might think a European Championship to be ‘second-grade’ but, in gymnastics, quite the opposite is true. The leaders tend to remain static, with the major contenders for medals well known. Unsurprisingly, passions were to the fore at Minsk-Arena, where ten carpets had been purchased especially for the event — later sent to children’s schools and Olympic reserve colleges.

беларусь.belarus 2011

Russians Yevgenia Kanaeva and Darya Kondakova joined Alia Garaeva from Azerbaijan, Ukrainian Alina Maksimenko, Bulgarian Silviya Miteva and other giants. It was not easy to win in such a company but our Lyubov Cherkashina succeeded twice. She claimed bronze in her exercise with the hoop and gold in her routine with clubs and ball. Fortunately, Russian Kanaeva lost her club, losing her points, but the judges agreed that the Belarusian would have deserved her victory regardless. “Lyubov Cherkashina is among my most favourite gymnasts,” smiled Yevgenia Kanaeva, speaking magnanimously; her two golds almost seemed like a failure against her usual rich crop. Despite her disappointment, she asserted, “We’re friends, so I’m not greatly upset by my shortage of gold medals. I’ll make up for them at other tournaments.” Cherkashina welcomed her medals, having longed for them. Of course, we can speak of objectivity in gymnastics but, behind the scenes, everyone believes in the idea of being number one or two. Judges assess performances accordingly, with ‘reserve’ sportswomen living in hope of the favourites making mistakes. At present, the Belarusian team is full of girls with equal talent; the days of Inna Zhukova leaving no chance for anyone else ended in Beijing. Cherkashina’s European success is a wonderful chance for her to rid herself of the label of ‘ever second’.

“I had no thoughts of winning one medal, let alone two, with one being gold,” Lyubov admits. “I hoped for bronze and am very pleased that the judges so highly appreciated my efforts. However, before I change my attitude towards myself and my authority in gymnastics, I must show this level consistently, at all events.” She refers initially to the World Championship where, in autumn, tickets to London are to be decided. The Olympics are her next target. Their scent was felt in the air at MinskArena, with coaches and gymnasts trying to look beyond the horizon. Experienced Irina Viner, who heads the Russian team and is known as a trendsetter in gymnastics, notes, “I’ve calculated the results from each event, including the all-round, and can say that Kanaeva has won ‘an Olympic gold’ in Minsk. She is, on average, 1.5 points ahead of her rivals, making it possible to compensate for coming sixth in the exercise with the clubs. On the basis of these calculations, Kondakova would have come third at the Olympics and Cherkashina would have been second. Lyubov performed brilliantly and was the only gymnast who made no evident mistakes in the all-round, on the second

Sport day of the event. She avoided failure and falls.” Of course, much time lies ahead before the London Games but the forecast looks optimistic.

Return

Melita Stanyuta is Cherkashina’s major rival on the Belarusian squad, primarily based on the views of judges and fans and, accordingly, Olympic pretentions. Melita is well-known, being a great-granddaughter of the famous actress and a young talent. The Belarusian gymnastics world is pinning hopes on her. At the age of 17, she won World

C h ampi ons h ip medals, rivalling those viewed as true legends. However, she failed to show her true ability at the recent event in Minsk, showing nerves or over-eagerness and dropping her ball, causing her to be placed last. Her beautiful performance at the traditional gala-show was poor recompense but her participation was still a wonder, as she suffered a leg injury last year, followed by an operation and a lengthy recovery period. Other sports figures have failed to recover from such injuries, obliged to retire following similar accidents. Melita surprised everyone by returning after just six months, ready for the European Championship. Moreover, she won two bronze medals during World Cup rounds. Her failure to win a

medal at Minsk-Arena is a real disappointment for her but we are sure that full recovery and a complete return to form will be hers, allowing her to take part in the World Championship and fight for a place at the Olympics.

Team

Junior sportswomen also fought for medals in the group exercises in Minsk. Our Belarusian junior team usually does well — its members training from the age of four. Now, aged 15, they are our major hope for the Rio de Janeiro Olympics next year. Russia leads in the

individual standings but B elarusians reign in group exercises, as a rule. The European Championship confirmed this, with our squad confidently winning the all-round, just slightly behind the Russians in the individual rankings. Their delight was obvious, “We were so worried, yet still believed that we’d manage to capture gold. Two medals would have been ideal but strong teams were competing. Of course, the Russians are not unequalled but, today, they were slightly better. Nevertheless, we are very pleased with our results, as this is our first major tournament.” The head coach of the Russian team for group exercises, Valentina Ivanitskaya, agrees, “Belarusians have always been our major rivals. You have a very strong team developing. It won’t be easy to defeat it. However, this adds interest: let’s wait for a while and see how they mature.”

World level

Minsk-Arena was not designed exclusively with gymnastics in mind but the 18,000 seater complex is unique, being able to easily host tournaments for hockey players and gymnasts, in addition to musical contests. After each event, audiences leave exclaiming on the wonders of the venue. During the European Championship, adjectives of praise flew thick and fast — from team members and International Federation members, who had already seen various tournaments. Sportswomen were provided with decorations and dressing rooms, with fruit and drinks available. The organisation of the event was perfect and a bright gala show of acknowledged stars closed the tournament. “I first saw Minsk-Arena in March, during the draw for the European Championship. I thought then that it was too large for this tournament but later changed my mind,” notes the FIG Technical Committee’s Chair, Heidi Bruneder, praising the event. FIG President Bruno Grandi agrees, “I admit that I’m impressed. Everything is so well organised here! As a rule, we gather 15 days after a similar tournament’s end to discuss the nuances of the event and give a final assessment. However, I’m convinced that this would be positive regarding Minsk’s competition. Belarus is the first country where the tournament has been held almost perfectly! I have no doubt that, after such a great European Championship, Minsk-Arena and Belarus will be able to host the World Hockey Championship.” “Our next goal is the World Championship,” notes the Belarusian team’s head coach and domestic gymnastics leader, Irina Leparskaya, “We’ve proven that we can host a tournament of the highest level. The World Championship is an even more serious task but, regardless of our anxieties, we will do our best.” By Dmitry Komarov

2011 беларусь.belarus

Mosaic

Forestry medals show accuracy and skill Belarusians claim eight medals at Lithuanian Open Chainsaw Championship

Truthful yet imaginative expression Arshin Mal-Alan operetta — by Azerbaijani composer Uzeir Gadzhibekov — proposed for Belarus’ National Theatrical Award

he performance premiered at the Belarusian State Academic Musical Theatre last autumn, with Azerbaijani opera stars performing the lead roles. Director Khafiz Guliyev and choreographer Medina Aliyeva worked together on the project. “The participation of our colleagues from Baku helped us create convincing images while reflecting a true Eastern colour,” explains People’s Artiste of Belarus Natalia Gaida. The theatres continue their cooperation, with Eyyub Kuliyev — who is listed in the ‘Golden Book of Young Talents of Azerbaijan’ — recently directing a performance at the Minsk Musical Theatre.

rofessional chainsaw operators gathered near Kaunas for the open air event. Four forestry workers from Minsk Region competed against others from Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, showing their ability to quickly fell a tree with a petrol-powered chainsaw. Within three minutes, the competitors had to fell a tree to land in a specific location, before sawing the trunk into discs no thinner than 3cm and no thicker than 8cm. Additionally, they were prohibited from allowing their chainsaw to touch the wet sawdust l y i n g b e n e at h each trunk.

Pyramids of Vitebsk Pyramids not only in desert of Egyptian Giza

n the eve of the holiday of arts in Vitebsk, the first stage of the Marko-City Business Centre is to open not far from the Summer Amphitheatre — the major concert ground of the popular Slavonic Bazaar Festival. The whole complex is multi-level and quite monumental, crowned with pyramids of glass, concrete and metal. Two are 14m high and one pyramid is 23m high, with a 42x42m square footing. Undoubtedly, the amazing constructions will become the city’s major attraction after their unveiling in July.

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Deserved applause 7th Chopin International Piano Competition finishes in Beijing, bringing together young pianists from six countries

he programme for under 16s covered exclusively the works of the outstanding Polish composer, with just six out of twenty entrants reaching the finals. A student from the Belarusian Academy of Music was among them: Special Presidential Fund scholarship holder Andrey Shichko. Andrey dreams of becoming a concert pianist with a world famous name; it’s a dream he could fulfil, having already received ovations in St. Petersburg, Kaliningrad, Paris and Vienna. This time, Beijing applauded him, with the judges of the prestigious competition calling Andrey a virtuoso and forecasting a brilliant future.

Homestead resembles a picture Artists from Belarus, Lithuania and Poland take part in international open air show, not far from Grodno

he original theme of the event involved the creation of a series of works showing t he holiday possibilities of Belarusian rural guesthouses, hosted by a recently revamped mansion. Many years ago, its first stone was laid by famous Grodno Mayor Antony Tizengauz, later finished by other hosts. From the Soviet times, it had remained deserted, falling into disrepair until chosen as a tourist site.