Opinions & Interviews

Lukashenko opines on ways to counter economic sanctions

MIORY DISTRICT, 8 August (BelTA) - Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko answered a question about ways to counter the economic sanctions during the visit to Miory Rolling Mill on 8 August, BelTA has learned.

The head of state stressed that amid sanctions it is important to know the state of affairs at enterprises, pay attention to each of them, and solve emerging problems in a timely manner: "We have to comb through every enterprise and see what it needs. So I came here to see what you need." The president is convinced that the Miory mill is ready to work even in difficult conditions, since it has a future, its products are in demand: "I know that you are happy to work. You have mastered this complex equipment, have geared up to manufacture a thin sheet, which is made by a few in the world. The order intake is big. You're ready to work, but things are moving slowly... Once there is a problem, it needs to be solved instantly. They’ve tried to strangle us with sanctions. They did not manage to strangle even you, once a poorly-performing enterprise. And those who work, who will prevent them from working?"

Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed that the demand for domestic products is now huge, and this applies to the entire line-up of agricultural machinery and components. “Germans, Americans left the Russian market. A market has opened for us. The industry minister has reported that Gomselmash is working extra hours to make components for Russia's Rostselmash," the Belarusian leader said.

"The demand for our products is enormous," the president emphasized. “This is a time of opportunity. Only those who move fast will come out of the crisis alive. Those who take it slow will be crushed.”

The president noted that, despite the rhetoric and behavior of some politicians  that have imposed sanctions, business is looking for ways to interact. "If they need this ‘gold’ that you make [sought-after products made by Miory Rolling Mill), they will buy them in a roundabout way, through Africa, Asia. And we will sell," Aleksandr Lukashenko said.

The president is convinced that in the current conditions the Miory mill has everything necessary for effective work. There is a slight shortage of qualified specialists, 60-80 people. The president proposed to solve this issue through the involvement of five-year university students and arranging their final training here, on the spot. “The mill is the most modern enterprise, it cannot be ruined. This is a young plant for young people," the Belarusian leader said. "Take care of this enterprise. The products that you manufacture are needed all over the world."

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