Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 22 December (BelTA) – There is one standard formula for contacts between authorities and business, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said as he met with representatives of the business community on 22 December, BelTA informs.

“My requirement to the officials of all the levels, from a chairman of the rural council to a minister, is as follows: to observe not only the letter but also the spirit of the adopted regulations. Every government official should follow the standard formula in maintaining contacts with business. If the law allows providing assistance, do it. If the law does not envisage any help, do not interfere. If the law requires intervention, act,” the head of state said.

The president stressed that all the decisions made to liberalize doing business conditions should be implemented as soon as possible. “It is very important for us to develop a system to monitor the implementation of normative acts,” he said. The relevant instructions were given to the Presidential Administration and the State Control Committee. “If there is a need for any bylaws, adopt them. This should be done quickly,” the head of state said.

According to Alexander Lukashenko, the government is currently drafting a decree on licensing. “I think that it should be a new systemic document to resolve all licensing issues in a comprehensive and consistent manner,” he said.

According to the president, the new documents have laid the foundation for the revision of the legislation in all the areas related to entrepreneurship. “Everything on this matter should be completed in 2018. The authorities must inform the people on new working conditions,” the Belarusian leader said. “I would like you to join this work. Use all available means of communication, meet with people, and do not forget about the potential of the Internet. Explain every letter of the new decisions,” he added.

“Business needs to understand: we have one economy. The tasks set out before the government apply to you too,” the president stressed.

He added that the state has drastically reduced the list of requirements to business. But now the full responsibility for the state of affairs at enterprises lies with the managers and owners.

Alexander Lukashenko drew attention to the fact that the authorities practically do not interfere in pricing. “Therefore, if the profits are enough for development, then do not inflate the prices. Keep them at normal levels. Keep in mind, that I have not abolished the Ministry of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade. I have strengthened it. It will monitor the prices along with the the State Control Committee, without interfering with your work,” the head of state said.

The president also asked to remember about the people and pay them decent wages, ensure employment.

“If you abide by these three simple rules, the state will always be your reliable partner and assistant. I guarantee you this,” Alexander Lukashenko said.