Second European Games in Belarus

MINSK, 13 April (BelTA) - Belarus’ sports industry is facing very serious tasks in the future, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said at a session held on 13 April to discuss the development of winter sports, BelTA has learned.

“We have serious tasks to accomplish in the future. It is already less than four years left before the next winter Olympic Games. The Summer Games will take place in two years. There is no time to waste. It is necessary to decide on the coaches and athletes and get down to work,” the head of state said.

“Our nearest major sporting test is the 2019 European Games,” Alexander Lukashenko said.

The head of state also mentioned the upcoming 2021 IIHF World Championship, which Belarus will co-host with Latvia. The president demanded to take necessary measures for the quality preparation of the team.

Alexander Lukashenko took note of the recent personnel changes in the sport industry, including the appointment of the new minister and also the new first vice president of the NOC and the rector of the Physical Education University.

“Today we have pinpointed all the priority areas. I ask you to ensure the unconditional fulfillment of all the instructions. Do everything as we agreed,” the Belarusian leader said.

The head of state also talked about the formation of the coaching staff in various sports and decent remuneration of specialists. “Do not forget that he [coach] has a family, personal interests. The coach deserves a good salary and respect. “Choose coaches and athletes and start working,” the head of state said.