Business news

SHKLOV DISTRICT, 22 June (BelTA) – Agricultural enterprises can be sold to private investors but only with terms and conditions. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko made the relevant statement during the government conference in Shklov District, Mogilev Oblast on 22 June, BelTA has learned.

The head of state noted that over the last five years they have been able to save, restore, and develop the Belarusian agriculture, ensure the country’s food security, create agrotowns, and enable the necessary living standards in the countryside.

“It’s been about 15 years since the program on modernizing our countryside and agriculture was passed. Now we have to decide what to do next. I am not a great admirer of the idea of privatizing state-run agricultural enterprises. But I don’t think peasants will take offense with me if I make pinpoint decisions in favor of privatization, decisions to sell, to let private investors be part of agriculture,” said Alexander Lukashenko. “Because I’ve given you 20 years to decide. Those, who want to work the land without a ‘landlord’, do it now. Those, who don’t, shouldn’t be offended. The state cannot and shouldn’t carry your burdens.”

“This is why we don’t argue against the arrival of private investors. But only with terms and conditions. Don’t offend the people is one of them. People should come to work, follow the technological process, and get decent salaries,” stated the president.