Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 20 October (BelTA) – The beautification of Belarusian cities and villages is a task for both public utilities and citizens, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko noted at the nationwide seminar on the improvement and development of Belarus' housing and utility sector on 20 October, BelTA has learned.

“We shall not tolerate irresponsibility during the beautification process in populated centers. Public utilities are not the only ones in charge of the beautification of cities and villages. I have been paying my personal attention to this matter since this autumn. Some work got underway at the Minsk Ring Road: now trees are planted at least where they should grow. We will look at the situation in other cities,” Alexander Lukashenko noted.

The president drew attention to the status of construction sites and adjacent areas and demanded to clean them up. “This is about Minsk, in the first place,” he said.

The head of state also inquired how local authorities follow his instruction to make economic entities responsible for the territories around them. “Our schools, plants, factories, and private enterprises are located on specific land plots, in specific urban blocks. Why not assign these territories to them so that they tidy them up on a regular basis,” Alexander Lukashenko instructed.

The president remarked that this is a good opportunity to cut government spending. He also pointed to the need to undertake the necessary measures to encourage the population. “You should organize, help, advise, inspire. You should decide on how to do it. I believe you know how to do it in an effective way. We will check it out, especially in 2018,” the Belarusian leader remarked.

Alexander Lukashenko drew attention to raising public awareness. “The feeling of ownership does not emerge on its own. It takes years to cultivate it, including thrifty and careful attitude to property. This is where mass media should get involved. They should not only prepare materials for seminars but also show the examples of both good work and also thriftless attitude,” the president added.

Alexander Lukashenko summarized that the housing and utilities are a complicated sector which requires constant attention of all government bodies and agencies as well as effective decisions. “Utility companies have and will always have customers. With a thrifty approach, all the activities will recoup their costs,” the Belarusian leader highlighted.