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Lukashenko reveals his military rank

MINSK, 22 February (BelTA) – Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko spoke about his military rank as he met with the academic staff of the Military Academy on 22 February, BelTA has learned.

The Belarusian head of state said he holds the rank of lieutenant colonel. Alexander Lukashenko explained that once a decision was taken to confer general’s ranks, as well as the rank of colonel, only by a presidential decree. “I cannot promote myself to the rank of a colonel,” he said.

The Belarusian leader holds a similar attitude to state awards. He admitted that he has awards only from the church and foreign awards. “In our country state awards are assigned by the president. I cannot reward myself, even if realize that I deserve it. Well, I am OK with that [lack of domestic awards]. I always feel good when I sign papers to award people,” the president said.

Alexander Lukashenko mentioned that he was awarded “back in those times” for the protection of the state border when he served in the border troops.

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