Opinions & Interviews

Balanced measures to support business in Belarus in coronavirus situation praised

Sergei Rachkov. Photo courtesy of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus

MINSK, 24 March (BelTA) – Belarus is working out calibrated and timely measures to support state enterprises and the private sector in the coronavirus situation, BelTA learned from Chairman of the International Affairs and National Security Commission of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus Sergei Rachkov.

The Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus is tracking the situation, gaining more knowledge about it through meetings with labor collectives and individual citizens. “We hear questions asked by representatives of small and medium businesses. They are concerned about the state of affairs in the world economy and along Belarus’ perimeter. The upper chamber of the parliament forwards their proposals and opinions as well as its own proposals to the government. It is very important the government responds to these concerns. Well-calibrated and timely measures are being worked out in Belarus,” the senator stressed.

“Export-oriented enterprises require close attention and financial support when countries and markets get closed. I am convinced that these and other matters relating to the stimulation of foreign economic activities of enterprises with all types of owners will be raised during the session of the Council of the Republic that will begin next week,” Sergei Rachkov added.

The senator pointed out that Belarus sets an example not only in the fight against the spread of the new coronavirus but also in how authorities should work with speed and precision in order to help citizens return to the home country from abroad. The country thoroughly analyzes the situation and takes into account its own experience of fighting various infections. After the collapse of the Soviet Union the Belarusian state sanitary service did not fall to pieces. Instead it was granted support and evolved. The experience of other countries is being examined, primarily China, which is successfully counteracting the spread of the new coronavirus. “All these efforts combined make sure the situation in the country is manageable and stable,” Sergei Rachkov summed up.

BelTA reported earlier that the Belarusian government is preparing a package of proposals on supporting state-run enterprises and the private sector. On Tuesday, 31 March the Council of Ministers intends to make the final decision on the measures to be suggested for consideration of the head of state. The measures include tax holidays and loan holidays, support for self-employed businessmen.

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