Opinions & Interviews

Lukashenko: Hard work and unity are keys to stability for Belarus

LYASKOVICHI, 15 August (BelTA) – Hard work and strengthening the country are the key to peace in Belarus while everything around is in turmoil, President Aleksandr Lukashenko said during the opening ceremony of the Call of Polesie festival in Lyaskovichi on 15 August, BelTA has learned.

“We will do everything to ensure there is peace,” the president stated. “We do not want war. Why? Belarus is a shared home where everyone [representatives of various nationalities and religions] lives together, and lives well.”

“Look at the religious and ethnic conflicts raging around us. It is terrifying to even think about it. Yet, Belarus remains peaceful. It is not my doing alone – you all have worked to ensure that people can live in peace on this piece of land while everything around it is in turmoil,” Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized. “We will continue to live in peace as long as we don’t steal from others to line our own pockets, but instead work hard to strengthen our country. The economy is paramount. That’s why I always say: you give me the economy, and I will take care of the rest.”

Aleksandr Lukashenko pointed out that despite Belarus being labeled a co-aggressor by some, the country maintains an entirely peaceful policy and even keeps its borders open. Despite the ongoing hardships, the president ordered the border with Ukraine to be opened for locals wishing to forage for wild produce in the borderlands, reviving a long-standing tradition from before the conflict. “Our people live over there. We opened the border for them even amidst the war. Come over. People used to make $5,000 to $6,000 [previously, when times were peaceful], working from dawn to dusk, of course, but it was their livelihood. What kind of war can just wipe that out and close the border?” the head of state said.

Addressing the Polesian people, Aleksandr Lukashenko underscored once more: “Stay true Poleshuks, strengthen your bonds of friendship, and avoid conflicts. We have plenty of everything. If anyone is in need of something, just let us know. Whatever the state is responsible for, we will absolutely deliver.”