Opinions & Interviews

VITEBSK, 24 September (BelTA) - Belarus needs to use the potential of the youth in setting up new companies, Olafur Ragnar Grimsson, the fifth President of Iceland, has said in the TV show The Picture of the World, BelTA has learned.

When asked on possible areas of common interest between Belarus and Iceland, sources to enhance the living standards of the population, the former president of Iceland stressed that he sees the prospect in using the creative potential of the youth. “Young people are the main source of energy we have. The youth should be provided with an opportunity to set up new companies,” he said. He cited an example: “We are a small country which, however, has several big companies. They all were once set up by two or three people. Our youth manage to use their abilities and potential for the development of new products which can become popular around the world. Therefore, Belarus, Iceland, such countries as Denmark and Norway have never had such big opportunities for success.”

The former president of Iceland also stressed the importance for tourism development. He cited the example of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon. “Tourists pay big money to take a plunge into the water left from the work of the electric power plant. That is why Belarus and any other country are capable of creating new opportunities for jobs, the attraction of tourists and the enhancement of the living standards. It is important to take a look at your country through the eyes of others. The things we may find ordinary can surprise tourists,” said Olafur Ragnar Grimsson.