BELARUS #6/2010

Good friends, reliable partners

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BELARUSMagazine for you Politics, Economy, Culture

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Belarus —russia

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no.8 (911), 2009

Беларусь. Belarus

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Made in Slutsk pp. 36 — 37

Беларусь.BelarusContentsMonthly magazine

No. 6 (921), 2010

Published since 1930

State Registration Certificate of mass medium No.8 dated March 2nd, 2009, issued by the Ministry of Information of the Republic of Belarus

Founders:The Information Ministry of the Republic of Belarus“SB” newspaper editorial officeBelvnesheconombank

Editor: Viktor Kharkov

Executive Secretary:Valentina Zhdanovich

Design and Layout byVadim Kondrashov,Georgiy Shablyuk, Aloizas Yunevich

Беларусь.Belarus is published in Belarusian, English, Spanish and Polish.

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© “Беларусь. Belarus”, 2010

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4 Middle east closer than we realise In Hanoi, the day ends as the sun rises to noon in Minsk. The Vietnamese President’s plane lands at the National Airport after a ten hour journey

8 new directions Industrial co-operation is viewed by Belarus and Azerbaijan as promising, as confirmed by presidents Alexander Lukashenko and Ilham Aliyev in Baku

38 children’sworld Ten years ago, only incura-ble optimists would believe that state orphanages would close in Belarus due to lack of need. How-ever, the incredible has happened

42 wheeloftiMe byValerianaZholtok Artist’s works leave bright impression of many- faceted palette of age

50 turningthepagesofMusicallegacy

52 retro style The third international rally of lovers of rare, classic cars — Bosch Retro-Minsk 2010 — has ended

54 what about does ‘sVyata’ sing? Not only love songs…

16 transitwitheyetothefuture Belaru-sian and Latvian railways jointly raising capacity of transport corridors

18 withouttiMeliMits…

22 Modest charM of Vornyany Home to Mindaugas’ first capital and Nobel Prize winner’s forefathers

34 faVourable enVironMent for ‘Mis-fits’ Ivan Akhremchik Arts Gymnasium- College (Minsk) encourages students to show their feelings in their work. The question of why they need art never arises — clearly, it’s essen-tial for their souls

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BY vikTor kharkov,magazine editorБеларусь. Belarus

editor’s note

First and second wave

Our visits aren’t restricted to courtesy but explore real opportunities to expand trade and investment — in the West and east, in the asian-Pacific region and in latin america. Read Good Friends — Reliable Partners to find out more.

Our multi-vector policy is yielding results as never before, especially in europe. The sharp drop in the value of the euro warns us that we should be ready for anything. until recently, the euro demonstrated envious stability in its exchange rate, ensuring the economic welfare of many european states. However, all has changed, with the euro plummeting downwards. europe has shown that it isn’t as united as it might think. Constructive ideas remain regarding Belarus, with the eu implementing the eastern Partnership programme, among others, with neigh-bouring states. However, this programme of benevolent intentions is experiencing obstacles. How far has it advanced over the last year? The eastern Partnership was discussed by foreign ministers at a

recent informal summit in Polish sopot, as detailed in How Does the New Formula Work?

Of course, our magazine isn’t restricted solely to

political topics. We look at the life of small towns in this issue,

describing youngsters’ interests and how these are taken into account by the country’s lead-

ership. This edition also looks at our union theme, and those keen on Belarusian culture and traditions will

find much to interest them.We hope that our magazine inspires

you to look at Belarus from a new angle. We’re naturally modest but we’re confident that we have a great deal to offer and are ready to consider suggestions on how we might improve our magazine. Please do get in touch with your ideas. We’ll be glad to receive feedback.

Most of us won’t remember when the economic crisis was first announced. They say that every-

thing began with the mortgage crunch in the usa. However, it’s rather difficult to believe that this is the major reason behind the global financial pyramid. in fact, does it matter where and why the crisis began. it spread across the globe like a chain reaction, falling on some countries like a tsunami, while forcing others to build dams or other protective structures. How did Belarus behave in this situation?

We began by diversifying and expanding relations, bringing remote Vietnam closer. Thousands of ki lometres may separate Belarus from this country in south-eastern asia, but the ten hour flight between us is consid-ered modest in today’s world. Nguyen Minh Triet, the Vietnamese P re s i d e nt re c e nt l y landed at Minsk National airport, heading a delegation of over 100 Vietnamese businessmen. Our article entitled Middle East Close than We Realise is dedicated to this visit. as a dynamically developing country in indo-Chinese region, Vietnam is a promising partner for Belarus, as proven during the meeting in Minsk.

Today’s world sees no obstacle in geographical distance while the economic crisis could bring positive

results, inspiring us to seek closer liaisons with other states. We may find addi-tional resources to the mutual benefit of partners, which may have been consid-ered inefficient previously. The Minsk visit by the Vietnamese was followed by Mr. lukashenko’s trip to the south-east.

Our country also sees opportuni-

ties for reali-sation of

national interests in azerbaijan, with our two presidents confirming this prospect in Baku, as explored in New Directions.

Belarus has active diplomatic relations with many countries around the world but those with Venezuela and ukraine, Vietnam and Brazil, Poland and iran and italy and lithuania are among the most dynamic. Contacts are intensifying at all levels, growing more diverse geographically and politically.

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To establish a contactBElarusian univErsal Commodity ExChangE (BuCE) opEns its offiCE in mosCow

The representation office has already begun its work legally, being hosted by the ground of the all-russian exhibition Centre in Belarus’

pavilion. at present, the equipment is being installed in the office, with staff being recruited.

a business centre is to be set up on the office’s premises, where russians will be given an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the Belarusian market and to conclude deals on any commodity. “Many of our enterprises are unable to open branches in Moscow, so we’ll partially take on the function of bringing our manufacturers and potential customers closer,” notes arkady salikov, the Chairman of BuCe’s Board. according to him, similar representation officers are planned for lithuania and ukraine later this year.

as far as Belarus is concerned, trading volume has returned to pre-crisis levels.

“The exchange’s activity indicates a market revival, which testifies to the country moving out of recession. We’ve fixed this back in late 2009, with positive dynamics still being preserved. Western partners have already taken interest in timber and agricul-tural produce,” asserts Mr. salikov. according to him, over the first four months of this year, the volume of exchange transactions at the BuCe has increased by over 50 percent on a similar period of the last year.

The BuCe was founded in 2003 by the Council of Ministers, with the state being its largest share-holder (owning 98 percent). at present, the BuCe has 4 commodity sections: metal products, timber products, agricultural produce and industrial and consumer goods. BuCe branches are operating in all Belarus’ regional centres.

Standard approach

Belarus participates in general assemblies of European standardisation organizations for the first time

The General assembly of the european Committee for

standardisation (CeN) has taken place in Malta’s saint Julian’s, Malta. The city also hosted the 50th General assembly of the european Committee for electrotechnical standardisation (CeNeleC) and the 6th CeN-CeNeleC annual Meeting.

The Belarusian delegation took part for the first time. The country has been granted the opportu-nity after it became an affiliated member of CeN and CeNeleC in late 2009. The delegation was led by the Chairman of the state standardisation Committee, Valery Koreshkov.

The focus was the results of the development of european standardisa-tion, as well as major avenues of future joint activity. at the CeN-CeNeleC joint session, Mr. Koreshkov delivered a speech presenting the technical standardisation system of Belarus.

During his visit, Mr. Koreshkov met the heads of the French association for standardisation, the German Commission for electrical, electronic and information Technologies, the Polish Committee for standardisation and the romanian standards association. The parties discussed issues of bilateral co-operation in the area of technical rate setting, standardisa-tion, metrology and conformance assessment, which are of mutual interest for the development of trade and economic ties between Belarus and these countries.Belarus participates in general assemblies of european standardisation organiza-tions for the first time

Stake on increase

Last year, foreign companies injected into the Belarusian economy the same account as they had done in the previous four years — about $5bn

The figure has been announced by the Deputy economy Minister,

andrei Tur, during the session of the Council on entrepreneurship Development under the President of Belarus. However, many issues remain unsettled, although foreign investors are approaching the country more eagerly. How can investments be attracted to small and medium-sized business? How can equal conditions for domestic and foreign investors be ensured? What should be done to make this process systematic? “at present, it’s important to augment invest-ments; their quality and structure are also vital,” said Mr. Tur. “The country needs investment capital, primarily, to quickly overcome the technological underdevelopment.”

according to Mr. Tur, Belarus has created attractive conditions for investors — i.e. they are offered privileges in small towns and free economic zones. From January-March 2010, about $2.2bn of foreign investment was attracted, including $1.4bn of direct investment. The figure is higher than it was last year.

PanoraMa


Visit

Middle East closer than we realise

Several years ago, i visited indochina. i also spoke to Vietnamese businessmen who accompanied their President during his recent

official visit to Belarus. accordingly, i can assert with some authority that our ideas about Vietnam — formed over recent decades — need serious revision. it is now a modern, dynamically developing country and a promising partner for Belarus.

Vietnam has its own High-Tech Park — Hoa lac — with which we have signed a co-operative agreement. Our Belarusian and Vietnamese ‘silicon valleys’ have the potential to fulfil mutual interests, as the Deputy Minister of science and Technology for Vietnam, Nguyen Van lang, notes. as Hoa lac’s director, he came to Minsk as part of the Vietnamese President’s delegation and visited our High-Tech Park. The Belarusian HTP Director, Valery Tsepkalo, explained the special taxation privileges granted to residents, the results of activity and prospects for development, as well as grand plans for future expansion. after the meeting, Mr. Tsepkalo noted that he will be visiting Vietnam soon. useful contacts could well be established between our iT zones.

Hoa lac has been operational longer than Minsk’s High-Tech Park — having

opened in October 1998. Being an important Vietnamese state project, it receives particular support. situated in the west of the capital province of Hanoi, it hosts research into high tech-nologies and is a business incubator for new enterprises. it even has a centre training technical personnel. The site covers about 1,300 hectares, including a 850 hectare industrial zone of software, biotechnologies, microelectronics and nanotechnologies.

Not long ago, the media announced a curious fact: the fourth generation iPhone had appeared in Hanoi a month earlier than its official launch in the usa. Vietnam is cultivating an image as a country at the cutting edge of inno-vation. Old stereotypes are obsolete. Of course, its citizens revere the memory of

those who died during the Vietnam War (they call it ‘american’) but little stands in Hanoi to remind us of those times, except a few monuments.

President Nguyen Minh Triet asserts that Vietnam is keen to become a contemporary industrial state by 2020: its major goal. Of course, it’s not yet a wealthy country, being ranked 166th worldwide in terms of GDP per capita (out of 192 states registered with the uN). its ranking might have been

higher were it not for the numerous wars suffered by the Vietnamese nation in the 20th century. Japan, France, the usa and China each brought their troops to Vietnam. Of course, Vietnam is now focusing on its development — a trend clearly seen by anyone who has been there.

in hanoi, thE day Ends as thE sun risEs to noon in minsk. thE viEtnamEsE prEsidEnt’s planE lands at thE national airport aftEr a tEn hour journEy. thE distanCE is far But viEtnam sEEms ClosEr, pErhaps BECausE BElarusians know wEll thE history of this Country

Belarus views Vietnam, with its 90m population, as a very promising economic partner. Simultaneously, it could be a platform for entering other South-East Asian markets


Visit

Mr. lukashenko has visited Hanoi twice: in 1997 and 2008. He admits that he is astonished by the great progress made by the Vietnamese in these 11 years. Hanoi residents have now shifted from riding bicycles to motorcycles; it’s almost as dangerous to cross the streets in the city as it is to swim in the crocodile infested Mekong river. it’s a pity that our Motovelo has probably lost out on this huge market.

Fortunately, some of our other major industrial enterprises are gaining a foothold and are even expanding their position in Vietnam. Our position was once so strong that Belarusian tractors are even portrayed on one of the national currency banknotes. ‘Belarus’ tractors are still operational

in the fertile Vietnamese fields, where crops are harvested several times a year. New models are also operational, since supplies continue. The Minsk automobile Works has developed most actively in the south-asian vector, with truck assembly production operational in Vietnam. Over the next two years, the plant will supply 1,600 truck sets — worth dozens of millions of us dollars.

The Vietnamese Constitution still encompasses the leading role of the Communist Party. its secretary-General, rather than the President, actually occupies first place in the country. However, in Hanoi, the hammer and sickle sits harmoniously alongside globally famous brands such as Toyota, samsung and Coca-Cola. The Vietnamese renova-

tion of Doi Moi began at approximately the same time as soviet perestroika, yet yielded different results. in this respect, Vietnam may be compared with its great northern neighbour of China, whose economy has been steadily growing for some time. Often called the ‘south asian dragon’, even the usa understands that it’s better to make friends with Vietnam rather than fight. a few years ago, the Vietnamese welcomed George Bush, which inspired us transnational corpo-rations to begin investments into the local economy.

Belarus views Vietnam, with its 90m population, as a very promising economic partner. simultaneously, it could be a platform for entering other south-east asian markets. it’s evident that this region

BEl

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Alexander lukashenko and Nguen Minh Triet during the official meeting


has best overcome the crisis. last year, the global economy fell by 1 percent while the GDP of the asian states increased by 5 percent. Our turnover with Vietnam is illustrative, having remained at a pre-crisis level, amounting to around $120m per year. in Minsk, our two presidents discussed how best to raise trade further — to fully meet potential.

Belarus has old friends in Vietnam, since the first representatives of this country arrived in Minsk to study in

1962. Over 3,000 people have trained at our universities in total, creating a bright advertisement for our educational system and, more importantly, aiding relations. Many now occupy high posts and speak to their Belarusian partners in a common language. The Vietnamese still recall the assistance which the ussr — and our republic in particular — provided during those days of american aggression. “We’re connected by close friendship,” notes Mr. lukashenko. “We should further advance our relations, relying on these solid foundations.”

What can Vietnam offer us? We know of its reputation for producing adidas trainers and Nike tracksuits but its major export is now oil. Minsk believes it could establish collaboration in this sphere, as in Venezuela. “We’re ready to support oil prospecting projects in Vietnam and in third countries,” asserts the President of Vietnam, adding that ‘we support initiatives for the joint manufacture of potash fertilisers using Vietnamese raw materials’.

The Vietnamese President arrived in Minsk jointly with a large group of around a hundred businessmen, who met Belarusian colleagues at the National library. after several hours of negotiations, a range of major contracts were signed, relating to potash fertilisers, cars, tractors and dried milk. These are worth over $100m and $1bn of turnover is planned within coming years.

Ta D u k D uong , t he genera l director of a large agricultural manu-facturing plant, was among the dele-gation. in Minsk, he hoped to agree

Visit

purchases of fertilisers at a good price and find buyers for his products: rice, nuts and pepper. He explains that his company has been operational on the asian market for many years and is now aiming for europe. He sees Belarus as a gateway to this continent and stresses that their european tour includes three countries — Belarus, switzerland and Finland. The Vietnamese view Belarus as a developed european industrial state.

in Minsk, President Minh Triet and other Vietnamese officials spoke a great deal about the economic liberalisation of their country, noting the improving business climate and rich possibilities for investment. Belarusians tackled almost identical issues in their speeches.

Tourist posters rightly compare modern Vietnam with globally famous resorts like Thailand and indonesian Bali. Their closeness to the equator guaran-tees good weather, while friendly people welcome tourists warmly. importantly, the country offers many sights to enjoy. in recent years, politicians and ordinary people alike have discovered this wonderful land. Belarusian tourist agencies are already offering flights to Vietnam. Of course, the route is long but, in our modern world, distance is no real obstacle. The experience is worth every minute of travel.

Belarus’ Deputy economy Minister, andrei Tur, asserts that the business forum has proven useful. Our Vietnamese colleagues obtained full, accurate infor-mation on investment conditions in Belarus. “Our focus is now export diver-sification, since we shouldn’t rely on a single buyer. Opening assembly facili-ties — especially those of automotive machinery — is another serious area,” he explains. “We’re interested in such fields as the hotel business — especially thinking of the forthcoming 2014 iiHF World Championship. Vietnam boasts huge experience in this field.”

No doubt, the Vietnamese President’s visit will inspire bilateral co-operation in a multitude of areas.

By Igor kolchenko

During the excursion around the National library of Belarus

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Without division into ‘home’ and ‘away’national invEstmEnt and privatisation agEnCy to work with forEign and domEstiC invEstors on Equal tErms

The President of Belarus, alexander lukashenko, has signed a decree to set up the National investment

and Privatisation agency in Belarus.The economy Ministry stressed that

soon all investment and privatisation pro-jects will be assessed, proposed and studied by specialists from this structure, solely from the point of view of their economic feasibility and strategic importance.

“The National investment and Privatisation agency is aimed to attract capital and ensure efficient interaction between state authorities and potential investors while creating a positive invest-ment image in Belarus,” notes Belarus’ economy Minister, Nikolai snopkov. according to him, the agency is now forming a single information database relating to investments and privatisation. The burning issue is whether the work of the agency will duplicate the functions of the state Property Committee. The

economy Ministry says ‘no’, and explains that the state Property Committee will be involved in registering and assessing methods of privatisation and state property control (as previously). The National investment and Privatisation agency will be primarily engaged in work with potential investors while preparing enterprises for de-nationalisa-tion and elaborating recommendations on privatisation terms. in other words, the state Property Committee will be elaborating policy, with the agency being qualitatively bringing it into life.

a supervisory council will be founded to control the agency, uniting representatives of state bodies and legal entities, as well as international experts in investments and privatisation. The economy Minister doesn’t rule out the possibility that representatives of public entrepreneurial organisations may also join the supervisory council. “any sound idea and any efficient proposal will be welcomed. We hope that alongside state officials responsible for this area, profes-sionals will also work, who’ll be helping us,” asserts Mr. snopkov.

The Minister notes that today the work is in full swing to form the regulation of the agency work and its charter. These are being developed with direct involvement of the World Bank and the international Finance Corporation. Those who are ready to invest into the Belarusian economy won’t be divided into ‘home’ and ‘away’. Both can hope for favourable conditions, with agency specialists paying special attention to the economic effect.

By Alexander Bogomarov

ContExt

Responsible and rational approach Belarus and Poland to jointly protect trans-boundary waters

Belarus and Poland are expected to sign the intergovernmental

agreement on rational use and protec-tion of trans-boundary waters. The preparation of the draft document was discussed during a recent visit of a Polish delegation to Minsk.

The document is expected to be signed in 2011. it foresees the development and implementation of the joint measures aimed at using, restoring and protecting the trans-boundary water objects of the Zapadny Bug river basin. “We plan to co-operate in the protec-tion and use of the rivers and lakes of the Grodno and Brest regions and the development of the avgustovsky Canal,” alexander rachevsky, the Head of the international Co-operation Department at Belarus’ Ministry of Natural resources and environmental Protection, said. The joint actions plan envisages the formation of an integrated system to monitor water basins, the organisation of joint research of water eco-systems’ condition and the use of up-to-date technologies to prevent pollution. Joint consultations on the issues of the preven-tion, limitation and reduction of trans-boundary influence are also planned.

Belarus has already concluded agree-ments on rational use and protection of trans-boundary waters with russia and ukraine. The Belarusian-russian-latvian agreement on the joint measures to protect the Zapadnaya Dvina river’s objects is being drafted now. “The european union is going to join as the fourth party,” noted Mr. rachevsky.

By Oksana Pilanova


toPiCal

New directionsindustrial Co-opEration is viEwEd By BElarus and azErBaijan as promising, as ConfirmEd By prEsidEnts alExandEr lukashEnko and ilham aliyEv in Baku

The head of the Belarusian s t a t e h a s b e e n t o azerbaijan on a three day official visit — his second to date (the last taking

place in May 2007). ilham aliyev has also visited Belarus twice: in October 2006 and November 2009.

This time, negotiations in Baku primarily focused on trade-economic relations, with the two sides discussing the implementation of current projects,

as well as promising new areas for colla-boration. Particular attention was drawn to the development of co-operation in science-intensive production and high technologies.

azerbaijan is a strategically important partner for Belarus in the Transcaucasian region and could be the foundation for the successful promotion of joint Belarusian-azerbaijani produce to third markets.

in 2009, azerbaijan was sixth among Belarus’ Cis partners for

foreign trade, moving up to fifth (from sixth) position for exports. Belarusian exports to azerbaijan primarily focus on machine building, timber processing and construction, as well as foodstuffs, medications, household appliances and petrochemicals.

since 2007, joint projects have been implemented in industry, with tractor and truck assembly being set up in azerbaijan and an optical-mechanical plant being modernised using Belarusian

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Ilham Aliyev and Alexander lujashenko during the meeting in Baku


toPiCal

security, and agree on the importance of diversifying hydrocarbon supply routes to world markets. Belarus is now interested in receiving oil from other sources besides russia, as is traditional, to ensure security. after Moscow intro-duced export duties on refined oil for Belarus, supplies from other countries became economically feasible.

Various options for bilateral collabo-ration in the oil sphere are being consi-dered. Previously, Belarus’ independent extraction of azerbaijani ‘black gold’ was discussed; now, supplies via ukraine are being studied. another option is for our Venezuelan oil to be sold to the usa, while azerbaijani hydrocarbons are dispatched to Belarusian oil refineries. azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister, elmar Mammadyarov, notes, “azerbaijan views Belarus as a platform for entering the Baltic states’ markets. The republic possesses unique transit opportunities.”

Mr. aliyev noted the intensifica-tion of bilateral relations, as seen over the last five years in all areas. “Today, we are taking concrete steps and this is only the beginning. We have to look for new spheres in which to develop our relations,” said the azerbaijani President. He believes that the intensive develop-ment of contacts between the heads of branches is vital. “We wish to work together more actively. We’re completely confident in our Belarusian partners,” stressed Mr. aliyev.

The Head of the Belarusian state noted that Belarus is ready to build 2-3 plants to manufacture construction materials in azerbaijan, relying on this country’s rich resources. a number of bilateral agreements were signed after the negotiations, including a joint decla-

ration of measures to expand turnover while encouraging the creation of new jobs. Joint steps are planned to promote economic growth and develop the business environment and real industrial collaboration. More opportunities are sought to allow our goods and services to enter the markets of azerbaijan, Belarus and third countries. Meanwhile, business forums are to be organised, promoting contacts between entrepre-neurs from both our states.

We are to exchange experience in the sphere of european integration, implementing an individual plan of co-operation with the eu while co-ordi-nating our positions within the eu’s eastern Partnership. The two presidents have agreed to actively develop political dialogue at various levels across a wide range of spheres, in addition to looking at international and regional problems of mutual interest.

looking at the OsCe’s efforts to solve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict peacefully, and the activity of the OsCe Minsk Group, the presidents stress the importance of adopting more decisive steps. inter-governmental agreements were signed in the presence of the two presidents, covering informatisation and iT, as well as science and technology. Moreover, an agreement has been concluded to encourage and protect mutual investments. The leaders of the two countries noted in a joint declara-tion that mutual interests are a weighty factor in our economic collaboration. They have agreed to support, protect and develop investments in areas such as power engineering, trade, heavy industry, machine building, agriculture, transport and communications.

technology. a contract has been signed to supply spare parts for lift assembly in azerbaijan in 2010, with agricultural machinery assembly also in the pipeline.

The presidents discussed interac-tions in foreign political spheres while tackling a wide bilateral agenda, regional issues and international topics. attention was also focused on Belarus-azerbaijan collaboration in integration structures, including the Cis and the eastern Partnership.

Humanitarian co-operation was also under scrutiny, in addition to joint scientific developments. The two sides discussed a whole range of issues relating to Belarusian-azerbaijani relations: from cultural exchange and educational programmes to mutual interests in the energy sphere.

addressing the Belarusian leader, ilham aliyev noted that, “Our relations have been developing dynamically and positively. We’re successfully working on many joint projects. everything we’ve outlined is being realised well and within a short time. i believe that your visit will give even stronger impetus to the development of our bilateral relationships.”

The President of Belarus thanked Mr. aliyev for his warm and friendly welcome. “Good, long-standing tradi-tions of close co-operation and mutual assistance between our nations continue and have even recently expanded, despite difficult conditions,” added the Head of the Belarusian state.

Mr. lukashenko also asserted the efficient development of bilateral dialogue which, according to him, is yielding positive results. Over the last five years, mutual turnover has more than quadrupled. However, the Belarusian leader believes that both countries have far greater potential. Joint projects — worth $1bn — have been prepared by the two states, which are ready to be implemented. The meeting also tackled joint projects to set up new high-tech manufactures in azerbaijan.

Minsk and Baku note the increasing role of energy deposits in the Caspian region in ensuring international energy

Negotiations in Baku primarily focused on trade-economic relations. Particular attention was drawn to the development of co-operation in science-intensive production and high technologies


Good friends, reliable partners BElarus has aCtivE diplomatiC rElations with vEnEzuEla, ukrainE, viEtnam, Brazil, poland, iran, italy and lithuania — among othErs. ContaCts at all lEvEls arE strEngthEning, CharaCtErisEd By gEographiCal and politiCal divErsity. morEovEr, our diplomaCy rEaChEs BEyond CourtEsy; BElarus is Bound to partnErs in thE East and wEst, in thE asian-paCifiC rEgion and latin amEriCa, undErtaking major projECts

Sadly, rather than looking at the essence of these ties, politicos sometimes invent conspiracy theories regarding with whom (and against whom)

President lukashenko is allying himself. sadly, some russian media outlets seem to feel envious, haughtily stressing that Belarus cannot adhere to a multi-vector policy. They argue that it has only two vectors — Western and russian — which is their great conceptual mistake.

Whenever Belarus launches a major project with its new partners — such as the mining and transportation of Venezuelan oil to europe — Moscow’s newspapers zealously announce a change to our foreign policy. Belarusian Foreign Ministry’s Press secretary andrei savinykh tells us, “This idea of wavering foreign policy is all in journalists’ minds. They like to create a sensation, so they try to fabricate a story from a quite logical process. Belarus has never changed its direction to the prejudice of its old avenue. This has never happened. Our notion of a multi-vector policy presup-poses that new directions be given equal footing with existing partnerships — not priority. We won’t ignore traditional rela-tionships. No shift is taking place. There is no prejudice against the traditional ties of Belarus. rather, we are seeing the

normal development of our foreign political contacts.”

ShariNg oNE BoaTThe intensification of contacts with

Venezuela is our brightest example. The topic has received much cover recently, with our publication analysing our two states’ joint projects. There is no need to repeat already announced targets on the expansion and diversification of our market but the geopolitical aspect should receive attention. Belarus’ multi-vector policy is not only a condition for achieving our country’s foreign political interests. rather, it is vital to all european interests.

all paths connected with the diver-sification of oil flow to europe are being seriously considered by european states, however fantastical they might seem. in fact, 4m tonnes of oil are coming to Belarus initially, with the figure rising to 10m tonnes next year — destined for the european market. it is no fantasy. some people note that russia’s Vladimir Putin has also agreed the development of the largest oil deposit in the world — Hunin-6 — with Mr. Chávez, following President lukashenko’s example. Of course, his agreement will be much larger, with the aim of supplying europe. Nevertheless, the european union is keen to move away

MultiPlE-VECtor strategy external policy

f r o m d e p e n d -ence on russian fuel and Mr. Putin’s agreements are viewed by europeans with scepticism. They see Belarus’ establishment of an oil bridge between the south american and eurasian continents in a different light. it is a geopolitical issue, proceeding from the division of states into oil suppliers, consumers and transiters. in this respect, Belarus shares the same boat as eastern and Central europe.

However, Mr. savinykh stresses that russia remains our strategic partner, without doubt. “Moreover, i’d like to stress, as ever, that co-operation with other regions, countries and state estab-lishments will never contradict our relations with russia. This is the only case for which we make such a proviso; it testifies to the depth and significance of this relationship.”

BraziL carNivaLMr. lukashenko’s meeting with

Brazil’s President, lula da silva, is of

�0 беларусь.belarus 2010

special interest regarding new political and economic unions within the inter-national arena. The strategy recently announced by President Obama presupposes the renewal of diplomacy and international development in this country, based on joint actions and new unions. Of course, this principle was invented not by the usa. latin america — demonstrating rapid economic growth — is pursuing active inter-continental ties, with leaders united by shared aims. They are demonstrating solidarity while searching for reliable partners on other continents. Brazil is a leading

country i n s out h a m e r i c a , actively pursuing t h i s p o l i c y. T h e meeting of our presidents can be viewed against this fact, as the Belarusian Foreign Minister, Mr. Martynov, notes. He emphasises that ‘not only a new page in Belarus-latin american relations has opened but also a new direction of co-operation with a principally important country in the region and the whole global economy’.

Belarus has only a minor role in the geopolitical puzzle being played by

strategy external policy MultiPlE-VECtorE

Hu Jintao and Mr. lukashenko signed a

joint declaration stipu-lating a shift in Belarusian-

Chinese relations — to the pursuit of dedicated collabora-

tion and strategic interaction. in 2007, the Prime Minister of the state

Council, Wen Jiabao, visited Belarus and practical co-operation between our counties was agreed. in august 2008, during the Beijing Olympics, our heads of state outlined major areas of bilateral relations. Our countries support each other in issues of shared interest and successfully protect our common position. China and Belarus are good friends and reliable partners — as confirmed by the recent visit of the Deputy Chairman of China, Xi Jinping, to Minsk. He confirmed China’s desire to invest the equivalent of billions of us dollars in Belarus.

in search of promising partners, Belarus has been acting in many direc-tions, with multi-faceted formats. We are liaising with the uN european economic Commission, with the euraseC and with the shanghai Co-operation Organisation. even joining the Non-aligned Movement has become a farsighted step for Minsk, ensuring a high level of political interaction with the growing economies of the world. These political contacts have opened doors to beneficial economic contracts.

irrespective of the number of vectors, Belarus advocates balanced relations with the east and the West. Time has confirmed the appropriate-ness of our foreign policy, which relies on a multi-vector approach, prag-matism and consistency. as a result, Belarus has a wide reach around the world. it is seriously represented in the global economy, trading with over 160 countries — a unique example. The level of our economy’s openness is among the highest in the world, as we export up to 60 percent of our manufactures. This is a serious figure, which dictates a corre-sponding foreign policy.

By Nina romanova

the two major economic centres of the world: Northern-american NaFTa and the european union. Both are vying for their share of the latin american market. This ‘puzzle’ suits well the general picture of european-l a t i n

a m e -r i c a n

m u t u a l interest and

m a t c h e s t h e emerging trend…However, small

and medium-sized states — like Belarus — are

steadily gaining more significance in the global arena, as confirmed by the appearance of the G-20. unlike the G-7, the G-20 is a centre for global decision making. looking closely at these twenty leading states, we may notice that many are ‘Mr. lukashenko’s friends’, as jour-nalists often call them. Of course, it’s no accident.

oPEN LiSTTwenty years ago, Belarus adopted

its Declaration of sovereignty, with our state always having pursued a multi-vector direction. We are sovereign in deed as well as in word, as the President often asserts. even during times of the closest relations with russia, our country never failed to keep its eye on a wider arc of interest: in asia, africa and latin america. in recent years, Belarus has activated contacts with Venezuela, india, iran, China, Cuba and the uae

— all key players in the global economy. The fact that Belarus has achieved a

level of strategic partnership with giant China is worth attention. it’s often called a global leader and, pleasingly, we boast healthy trade and investment relations. Meanwhile, top level contacts have led to mutual political trust. in 2005, Chairman

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�� 2010 беларусь.belarus

PartnErshiP

27 + 6 = A ‘raised bar for contacts’, ‘a European entrance hall’, ‘a horizontal model of co-operation’ and ‘a project for a new home’ are popular phrases used to characterise the Eastern Partnership programme. Initiated by Poland and Sweden in Prague a year ago, it envisages a new strategy of collaboration between 27 EU countries and their closest neighbours. These include Belarus, Ukraine and Moldova, as well as the South Caucasian countries of Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia. The programme’s strategic goals are to encourage these six states towards European values and standards in politics and in their economies, creating free trade between the EU and its partner countries, while abolishing the visa regime

How have relations drawn closer over the last year? The issue was recently discussed at the eastern Partnership informal summit for

Foreign Ministers in Polish sopot.

oN STagE aND BEhiND ThE curTaiNSaccording to the Foreign Minister of

spain (who chairs the eu), Miguel Ángel Moratinos, the summit in sopot ‘was abso-lutely successful and full of symbolism’. His Polish colleague, radosław sikorski, and the eu Commissioner for enlargement and european Neighbourhood Policy, Štefan Füle, were also full of optimism. The diplomats spoke of ‘live discussions’ and noted that the programme ‘has consider-ably advanced’ over the past year.

These are official comments, yet other opinions could be heard behind the summit’s curtains. Polish politicians and experts observing the summit in sopot noted the importance of having a forum such as the eastern Partnership in which to work together. its role cannot be underestimated although its potential is yet to become fully realised. Many await tangible results.

Poland’s ex-president and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, lech Wałęsa, believes that the eastern Partnership programme as a form of co-operation is replacing the eu expansion. “The european union isn’t ready to accept all those wishing to join. However, we need to elaborate schemes of collaboration, preserving the opportunity

for further integration. This is the context in which the eastern Partnership programme should be viewed,” he explains.

speaking of Belarus and ukraine, the famous Polish politician noted that, “it’s impossible to imagine europe without these two countries. Of course, we wish Belarus and ukraine to join europe as soon as possible.” Meanwhile, according to Mr. Wałęsa, it’s necessary to objectively assess the situation. Today, ukraine and, especially, Belarus have strong economic dependence on russia. We need to involve Minsk and Kiev in the orbit of european political financial assistance (worth billions of us dollars); it can serve as a ‘life buoy’ during shocks, such as those relating to energy. However, primarily because of financial problems in Greece, the eu lacks enough funds at present. The euro-integration of Belarus and ukraine won’t happen quickly.

a famous parliamentary figure, who wished to remain unknown, noted ‘although it’s unusual to say so ‘on record’, the eastern Partnership is the eu’s attempt to compete with russia to influence their closest neighbours’. He stresses that the eu wants predictability and stability on its eastern borders and believes that today’s russia, especially after its military conflict with Georgia in august 2008, seems rather unpredictable to most europeans. However, he believes that Brussels doesn’t organise decisive political rivalry for the countries, neighbouring russia. “The programme’s budget of 600m euros for six

countries doesn’t compensate adequately for the ‘stress’ caused by Moscow.”

Our anonymous parliamentarian is also convinced of the necessity of the eu using a differentiated approach towards its partner countries. The six states have various views on euro-integration. For example, Moldova and Georgia plan to join the eu while azerbaijan, armenia and Belarus haven’t made such announcements. Therefore, individual schemes of co-operation are logical rather than uniting the six countries ‘in a single bag’.

EaSTErN ParTNErShiP aND BELaruSBelarus’ Foreign Minister, sergei

Martynov, expressed Minsk’s official view on co-operation with the eu on the eve of the sopot summit, speaking to the Gazeta Wyborcza newspaper. He stipu-lates, “accession to the eu isn’t a goal for us at the moment; we’re planning gradual rapprochement. This is one of our major priorities.”

it’s vital to remember that russia remains one of Belarus’ main foreign political partners. Minsk and Moscow have signed the union state Foundation Treaty and it remains in force. at the same time, the eu accounts for around half of Belarus’ foreign trade balance. Difficulties in relations with Moscow (disparity of gas prices, russia’s introduction of oil customs duties and protectionism measures against Belarusian goods) have pushed Minsk to actively diversify its economic

How does the new formula work?

�� беларусь.belarus 2010

PartnErshiP

and foreign political contacts. Growth of bilateral trade and the attraction of invest-ments and the latest european technolo-gies are Belarus’ major expectations of the eastern Partnership. However, official Minsk is ready to discuss the ‘political weather’ with the eu (which, according to eu Commissioner Štefan Füle, could be better). Minsk is awaiting ‘practical content and concrete projects’.

in sopot, Mr. Martynov proposed the creation of the ‘business dimension’ of the programme, to provide direct dialogue between business structures. The Foreign Minister also called on the european Commission to adopt clear and trans-parent rules for the consideration and further financing of projects.

several concrete initiatives are being implemented or prepared for realisa-tion within the eastern Partnership format, such as an integrated border management project — worth 50m euros. The programme to assist small and medium-sized businesses in 2010-2013 is also among these projects, with its budget standing at 57m euros. The sums are modest but still significant…

The Polish Foreign Minister, radosław sikorski, stresses that, alongside direct financing, european banking institutions will also be funding various projects. For instance, the european investment Bank has reserved 1.5bn euros to modernise the infrastructure of partner countries. For Belarus, as a transit country, infrastruc-ture projects (covering border control,

customs service and power engineering) are of special interest…

NEighBourSas an initiator of the eastern

Partnership programme, Poland is actively supporting Belarus’ participation. Mr. sikorski stressed in sopot the necessity of dialogue and co-operation with Minsk. “Belarus is our neighbour and neighbours can’t be chosen,” he noted.

Warsaw and Minsk have plenty of topics to discuss, with many proving chal-lenging. However, the former Minister of Foreign affairs of Poland, Prof. Daniel rotfeld, believes that there’s nothing extraordinary. “states situated far from each other usually have no serious problems in their relationships,” he explains. “as a rule, difficulties appear among neigh-bouring countries. it’s like a family: when people live close to hand, it’s harder to avoid misunderstanding and conflict.”

The situation with the union of Poles in Belarus has become a definite test for Belarusian-Polish relations. Media from both sides have been quick to report on ‘the oppression of the Polish minority’. However, criticism has been weightier of late. Prof. rotfeld calls on us to be objective, saying, “The conflict should be analysed from a political point of view. it’s not politically motivated! The Belarusian authorities treat Poles just as well as they treat Belarusians.”

The situation regarding the union of Poles being split into two groups was

discussed during negotiations between alexander lukashenko and radosław sikorski in Kiev. They’ve agreed to create a special working group to settle conflicts calmly and without speculation. in his interview with Gazeta Wyborcza, Belarus’ Foreign Minister was asked whether it’s possible for both unions to co-exist: one headed by stanislaw siemaszko and the other headed by andżelika Borys. Mr. Martynov responded that this was the ultimate goal before the tragic death (in the air crash near smolensk) of Poland’s Deputy Foreign Minister, andrzej Kremer, the co-chairman of the Polish side of the group. in late May, Minsk and Warsaw were outlining terms of future meetings. “let’s not jump ahead, but wait for the results of experts’ work,” recom-mends Mr. Martynov.

Mr. sikorski also called on Polish journalists at a press conference in sopot not to be in a hurry with results and to await a competent conclusion. The mutual interest of officials on both sides in evident. They have no wish for unnecessary confrontation, wishing to solve disagreements with diplomacy; it’s a good sign for our future relations.

Belarusians and Poles were a single state under the rzech Pospolita for centuries and we continue to work closely, despite some contradictions and misunderstand-ings. Poland’s chair of the eu in H2 2011 is aiding the development of relations within Warsaw-Minsk and Belarus-eu formats.

By Vitaly volyanyuk

During the Eastern Partnership Summit for Foreign Ministers in Polish Sopot


The President has continued his practice of lecturing in front of students; however, he asked them not to view him as a lecturer. “some

might think that lecturing at a university has nothing in common with delivering a speech to the united Nations,” noted Mr. lukashenko. “But i’ve arrived in my native town. This was my first university. in preparing my talk, i’ve focused on sociological aspects — wanting to answer questions topical to young people today. i want to see how young Belarusians perceive state policy.”

Mr. lukashenko recalled his first speciality as a historian and noted that most of those present (and listening via the internet — organised for two other universities in Mogilev) are approxi-mately the same age as the Belarusian state. Obviously, they cannot remember the first years of Belarus’ independence. “i didn’t know much,” admits fifth year student Vadim. “Truly, i didn’t expect that the President would be so sincere with us. He spoke about everything frankly. sometimes, he asked journalists not to quote him and admitted when he was unable to discuss a particular matter, which i admired.”

BuSiNESS FroM ThE ouTSET according to the President, the

present recession has primarily demon-strated that the state should not fully leave the economy to run itself. “No universal or ideal model exists,” admitted Mr. lukashenko. “The worst mistake we could make is to blindly copy another’s experience. On becoming president, i faced the challenge of choosing a path.” at that time, all his advisors suggested

that he follow russia’s path — that of shock therapy — since many people were convinced that privately owned cafés, shops and factories worked better than those which were state run. “However, what is admissible for small business isn’t necessarily so for large enterprises,” Mr. lukashenko asserts. “Belarus tractors and atlant refrig-erators would have disappeared — as previously popular Baltic VeF radio receivers and raF cars did. if Minsk’s automobile Works had been sold, we’d now be painting the chassis while main production would be situated somewhere in Detroit, or at a Mercedes

or Volvo factory. We’d be an

‘appendage’, which would make us an ‘appendage’ to some other state.”

even George soros — a specialist in the post-soviet space — wrote in his Open society: ‘i have to admit that an open society is not necessarily the outcome of a closed society collapsing. On the contrary, collapse can lead to the destruction of power and disintegra-tion of society’. in line with generally acknowledged law of the ‘Gini coef-ficient’, a relatively egalitarian country, without an elite handful claiming

property ownership, can be the result, as seen by those visiting Minsk (especially when coming from Moscow or Kiev). it is upon this solid foundation that our state is built...

The President did not shy away from acute questions and even provoked them — pushing those present to ask. “ask me why we don’t boast the same standards of living as they do in Western europe but remember that the uK, France and Germany took time to reach their heights.”

hErE aND NoW“Those thinking that liberalisa-

tion equates to the parcelling up of

property — as was once done in russia — are mistaken,” said Mr. lukashenko, adding, “liberalisation means giving freedom to private initiative.” at present, the state is strong enough to limit its direct presence in some spheres. The Presidents calls this the ‘evolution of the Belarusian economic model’.

The country is ready for privatisa-tion but the President notes that ‘our principle is to sell at a high price’. He explained his idea later, when a student from the Belarusian-russian university

“No universal ideal model exists. The worst mistake we could make is

to blindly copy another’s experience. On becoming president, I faced the

challenge of choosing a path”

MEEtings

Trusting dialogue prEsidEnt of BElarus talks to studEnts at mogilEv’s a. kulEshov statE univErsity


MEEtings

asked whether Belarus is ready to sell its oil refineries if russia promises to load them with duty-free oil. Mr. lukashenko caused smiles from those present on asking whether an oligarch had asked the girl to ask this question. it seemed difficult to believe that this topic worries a student greatly but the President admitted that the problem is serious. “We’ve been nailed to the wall. They have calculated everything: the price they offered is unprofitable for us to process oil... if they continue ‘pressing’ us in the same manner, we’ll move away from dependence on russian energy resources.” However, Belarus is not against selling shares in its refineries for a good price.

There is no doubt that the country is developing, with our leadership reacting to changing circumstances. That which was impossible yesterday can now be easily realised. This is well confirmed by our co-operation with the iMF.

Previously, the Fund envisaged such strict terms that Minsk could hardly comply. However, it recently stepped in to save Belarus when our gold-and-currency reserves were near empty (only about $500m remained). russia had failed to provide its promised loan. “You should know that the iMF’s money is kept by the National Bank as a reserve. We have not guzzled it away,” stressed Mr. lukashenko.

in russia, some think that the iMF stepped in with an ulterior motive. However, as Confucius said: ‘it doesn’t matter if a cat is black or white, as long as it catches mice’. russia — our closest, proven ally — sometimes fails to understand this. The fact that the loan was allocated shows that global economists believe in the Belarusian economy. Mr. lukashenko is convinced that co-operation with this organisa-tion won’t hamper the fulfilment of our obligations to raise the monthly salary

to $500, while increasing the value of student scholarships...

QuESTioN — aNSWEr Mr. lukashenko was asked many

questions, including those on foreign policy and issues which worry students — such as hostels, allocation of places and curriculums. Here are a couple:

Why have the hours spent studying Belarusian history been reduced at school?

We’ll study the issue, as it’s very important for us. We shouldn’t simplify the study of humanitarian subjects if we want to raise patriots in our country…

What are your relations with Viktor Yanukovych?

anyone thinking that he is a pro-russian or pro-Belarusian president are mistaken. He is pro-ukrainian. We are solving all issues with ukraine — even the delivery of Venezuelan oil (to some discomfort from russia).

By Igor Slavinsky

BEl

TA


nEighBourlinEss

Transit with eye to the future BElarusian and latvian railways jointly raising CapaCity of transport Corridors

M a ny o f u s s t i l l remember school m a t h e m a t i c a l problems about trains travelling

from point a to point B. We had to calculate at what point they would meet or how long the journey would take. in reality, railway logistics are far more complicated, especially where line capacity through a certain site

is limited. raising capacity, even to a small extent, can drastically enhance the attractiveness of the most signifi-cant transport corridors.

a good example is the launch of the second railway line between Belarusian Bigosovo and latvian indra, allowing 32 pairs of cargo trains to pass (instead of the previous 29). This 7km of track is part of the extensive smolensk-Polotsk-

Daugavpils-Ventspils route (part of the Organisation for Co-operation of railways transport corridor system). Cargo trains once shared the line, having to give way to each other, costing precious time — and money.

The ne e d to upg rade in f ra-structure was first discussed five years ago, when Belarusian and latvian specialists began working together. This spring, their work was completed. The Head of Belarusian railways, anatoly sivak, met the latvian railway Chairman of the Board, uģis Magonis, at Bigosovo station to symbolically open the line, allowing the first cargo train to travel towards the latvian border. “railway connection with latvia is strategically important,” stresses Mr. sivak. “exports moving from Belarus to latvia comprise 38 percent of our cargo while international transit from russia to latvian ports via this route accounts for 46 percent of the total volume. in 2009, 31.6m tonnes of cargo were shipped via the border checkpoint of Bigosovo-indra. This was a huge volume for a single-track railway line.”

last year, Belarusian and latvian rai lway workers launched a new

At the ceremony of the new railway rout opening


nEighBourlinEss

project, creating the ‘Zubr’ train to transport goods from latvian ports to ukraine via Belarus. raising shipment volumes in this direction is impossible without proper infra-structure. accordingly, Belarus is to invest about $200m into Vitebsk-Polotsk-Bigosovo route, constructing s e c on d t r a c k s an d pu rc h a s i ng modern communications technology — to control movement and safety. Mr. sivak believes this will enhance the competitiveness and commercial attractiveness of moving cargo by rail, while allowing passenger routes between Belarus and latvia to be expanded. “We are doing our best to complete the process in the coming year,” adds Mr. Magonis, speaking of Minsk-riga route. He stresses that Belarus is a major partner for latvian railways. last year, over 32m tonnes

of cargo were transported by latvians via Bigosovo-indra (out of a total of 53m). accordingly, latvia also plans to invest in the construction of two-track lines from the Belarusian border to riga.

Belarus’ First Deputy Transport and Communication Minister, Nikolai Verkhovets, also attended the solemn ceremony, noting that Belarus-latvia trade is based on trust and mutually beneficial terms. He hopes that the second railway track between Bigosovo and indra will inspire our neighbours towards greater co-operation and further raise exports in goods and services. additional possibilities for business are also likely to appear. “We are a small state, so we need to pursue all our transit possibilities,” he emphasises.

Work on Bigosovo-Polotsk route will be complete by 2016, allowing

capacity to r i se by 75 p ercent . This w i l l enable an addit iona l 13m tonnes of coal , t imber, oi l and oil products to be transported annua l ly, wit h Mozyr ref iner y s ending over 4m tonnes of oi l products (received from Venezuela) to Ventspils Port annually. New rail capacity is essential to allow growth. latvia’s Transport Minister, Kaspars Gerhards, who also attended the ceremony in Bigosovo, notes that improving transport could be the quickest and most convenient route out of the global economic crisis. Joint railway construction confirms our good neighbourly relations and mutually beneficial economic co-operation. Mr. Gerhards believes collaboration could also be extended in the field of energy.

By Sergey golesnik

The Head of Belarusian Railways, Anatoly Sivak, met the latvian Railway Chairman of the Board, Uģis Magonis to symbolically open the line, allowing the first cargo train to travel towards the latvian border

BEl

TA


MEMory

Without time limits…‘on BEhalf of thE italian govErnmEnt and pEoplE, wE Confirm that konstantin kondratEnko fought against thE gErmans, taking part in offEnsivE opErations and rECEiving military information…’ rEad thE tExt, BEautifully writtEn on a CErtifiCation Card. it onCE BElongEd to a man Born in thE duBrovno distriCt of vitEBsk rEgion

“We found out that Kondratenko was taken prisoner, then ran away and joined the ita l ian part isan brigade, where he finished the war fighting,” explains the archive Chief of the Directorate of the state security Committee for the Vitebsk region, igor sedykh. “We’ve tried to find his relatives, but, unfortunately, have failed so far. Probably, we’ll succeed via the media. However, we’ve found relatives of other countrymen transported to Germany for forced labour.”

The ceremony to mark the first t r ans fe r r a l of d o c u me nt s to ok place on the eve of Victory Day in Novopolotsk. The photos of parents and grandparents, taken over 65 years ago, brought many a tear from relatives. in 1944, Vladimir shimko’s father (from Glubokoe) was sent to a Berlin factory. romuald Murashko was collecting documents relating to his mother, leongina stepanovna, who worked as a medical assistant in Tolochin before the war. The fascists suspected her of smuggling medicine to partisans, so sent her to Germany to treat typhoid patients. another interesting and heroic story is that of lidia Kontseal, aged 27 when the war began. at that time, she worked as a pr imar y school teacher in rossony district of Vitebsk region. it

Igor Sedykh returns the personal documents to the relatives of those who was

forced to leave for Germany during Fascist occupation

The italian partisans assumed that, as soon as their soviet colleague returned home, after the defeat of fascist Germany, he’d be asked questions at the

border camp. The certification card acted as a protective document for Kondratenko, yet was withdrawn in 1945, kept in the archives of the Directorate of the state security Committee for Vitebsk region. However, on the eve of the 65th anniversary of the Great Victory, they decided to send such documents

to those who originally owned them, or to their relatives.

after the war, around 50,000 people who had been forced to leave returned to Vitebsk region. Many had been used as forced labour in Germany, working at dangerous pits and mines. some had escaped being ‘Ostarbeiters’ (‘east workers’) by running away from camps to join Western-european anti-fascist forces. Konstantin Kondratenko was among them. His story inspired state security employees to return

those unique documents to their owners and relatives — since t he y are t r u ly

family relics.


MEMory

was there that she met her husband Vasily, who was the headteacher — the only person at school to have received a university education. During the occupation, their family moved to the village of Ventsovoe in Polotsk district. However, the fascists suspected Vasily of connec-tions with partisans and shot him. His wife, who had two small children by that t ime, was i m p r i s o n e d a n d interrogated before being transported to a labour camp in French Gyundang in april 1944.

“ T h e F r e n c h organised an escape,” note s he r g r and-d au g ht e r, Ye l e n a Kontseal, who now resides in Mogilev. “Three out of f ive prisoners were shot during the attempt but my grandmother managed to flee to Marseille, joining the brigade of soviet partisans.” Her partisan commander in the north of France wrote, on May 30th 1945, that she had, without

reservation, ‘proven herself to be a disciplined soldier’.

“My grandmother told us that, when the americans liberated France, many young soldiers asked her to marry them, saying they’d help find her children, who were left with relatives in occupied territory,” notes Ms. Kontseal. “However, she decided

ernst (named in honour of the leader of the German communists, ernst Thälmann) bought them half of a private house.

“Before the war, my grandmother’s family was considered prosperous and lived very well,” continues Yelena. “Probably, because she lost everything, she was prone to nervous fits. in one

such period, she burnt all of the photos taken of herself with General de Gaulle.” lidia Kontseal died seven years ago a n d w a s b u r i e d a t Yamnitskoe cemetery in Mogilev. state security C om m it te e of f i c e rs from Vitebsk have now returned her documents to her relatives.

Ye l e n a Ko n t s e a l teaches physics in a Mogilev school and is very grateful to archivists from the state security Committee. several years ago, jointly with her aunt from st. Petersburg, she

tried to recreate their family tree. Her grandmother’s documents arrived just at the right moment.

By Sergey golesnik

Certificate of the French partisan lidia Kontseal

lidia Kontseal (centre) with the members of French resistance

to come home.” she didn’t return to work in school though, moving to latvia with her common-law husband before settling in Mogilev. Their son

aftEr thE war, around 50,000 pEoplE hoC had BEEn forCEd to lEavE rEturnEd to vitEBsk rEgion. many has BEEn usEd as forCEd laBour in gErmany working at dangErous pits and minEd. somE had EsCapEd BEing ‘ostarBEitErs’ (‘East workErs’) By running away from Camps to join wEstErn-EuropEan anti-fasCist forCEs


Silver horseshoe with golden crosses

voluntEErs rEstorE lyuBCha CastlE, surroundEd By lEgEnds

Everyone agrees that action was needed. For a long time, the 16th century castle in the village of lyubcha (in Novogrudok

district) was empty. During WWii, it was largely destroyed, as lyubcha area was the epicentre of the partisan struggle against the Nazi fascists. This picturesque

place on the Nieman river has kept its memory of those old events. a tall iron obelisk with a star stands on the

road leading to the castle, bearing the names of those who died liberating

their Motherland. The castle itself remembers the fighting from those years. However, it has survived. People have insisted that something should be done, giving it a roof to protect it from the wind and rain. eventually, ivan Pechinsky said, “i’ll do it!”

MaNY haNDS MakE LighT Work

“i was born in lyubcha,” says Mr. Pechinsky, the Chairman of lyubcha Castle Public Fund, established to save the archi-tectural treasure. “One day, i climbed the castle hill and realised that only two towers were still standing from the

whole castle. They were ruins…” From 1983 to 1986, a project was

developed to restore the 100 year old building and there were even plans to

build a sanatorium nearby. The combination of sanatorium and castle, on the picturesque bank of the river Nieman, was to inspire further development. However, time passed and the idea remained on paper.

Mr. Pechinsky is not a wealthy business-man, so the natural issue of money was acute. Happily, interested people were found and donations began arriving. Now, some large telecommunication and construction companies, in addition to banks, are providing funding. it took several years to restore one tower and Mr. Pechinsky now plans to start reconstruc-tion on the other side of the castle, helped by like-minded people.

every summer, twenty people work at the voluntary camp, restoring the castle. in just a few years, about 600 volunteers have participated, each coming of their own volition. some come to see what’s happening on the site and become enraptured by the local mood of romance, staying for a while. Mr. Pechinsky is pleased to say that those who join his team tend to stay for at least a week — or even the whole summer.

‘Many hands make light work’ says the proverb. i visited lyubcha in april — on the international Day of Monuments and Historical sights. Volunteers were there for the ninth ‘subbotnik’ in a row [voluntary events to help a social project]. Mr. Pechinsky is also assisted by the Culture Ministry’s Department for the Protection of Historical-Cultural Heritage and restoration. ivan Yarmots, the Chairman of lyubcha Village executive Committee, is among those interested.

lyubcha Castle’s restoration has now transformed into a nationwide activity. Volunteers are willing to restore the castle

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is nearby — planted by a former owner. The Falts-Feins family also founded the globally known ukrainian reserve of aksania Nova: it’s the only feather-grass steppe in europe never to have been ploughed. a zoo is operational there, showcasing birds and animals from almost every corner of the globe. in lyubcha, 35 black walnut trees and 300 limes have been recently planted to help restore the park to its former glory.

crosses. at that time, Protestantism was wide-spread, supported by the Kishki family. lyubcha became a capital of this religious movement. s o m e t i m e l a t e r, t h e f a m o u s radziwills — from lithuanian Biržai — became interested in the beautiful city on the river Nieman, buying it from the Kishkis, including the castle. The radziwills finished works on the castle and presented a new emblem

SuccESS MixED WiTh Egg WhiTES

“To restore the uglovaya (Corner) tower, we worked through the night, by lamp light,” explains ivan. it seems there are no obstacles which cannot be overcome. “When we were short of bricks, we went to neighbouring yards and collected unused construction materials and dismantled fireplaces from neglected houses. We needed old bricks — similar to those from which the castle was built. logically, if the castle was destroyed in the past, then people took its ruins for their own needs. We are now returning these to their original use.”

The bricks suit the reconstruc-tion of the so-called ‘Fachwerk’. Many buildings in Belarus follow this style, as they do in northern europe, Germany, Holland and england. The idea is that the frame of the building is braced with oak crossbars and inter-filled with bricks and limestone cement. We have depic-tions of this construction in archive documents relating to lyubcha Castle, which was one of the first ‘Fachwerk’ constructions in modern Belarus.

additionally, this castle was one of the first to use the old technique of sgraffito — on the uglovaya tower’s upper cornice. This is where two layers of plaster are affixed, each a different colour. When the top layer is washed away in some places, a two-tone effect is revealed. it hasn’t been easy to recreate the sgraffito at lyubcha. “We experimented and there were mistakes,” recalls Mr. Pechinsky. “later, i calculated it was taking one person 15 days to cover one metre. We had to cover 36 metres in all.”

lilia usoskaya, a chemist-technolo-gist from the Centre of regeneration of Historical-Cultural landscapes and Territories, shows me a delicate decora-tion of lilies on the upper storey of the tower, saying, “We didn’t use modern chemical mixtures but prepared the plaster as our ancestors did in the past — mixing it with egg whites.”

lyubcha Castle isn’t the only local restoration project. a wonderful park

WEaThErcock iN ThE WiND oF TiME

in the 19th century, the Falts-Feins built their neo-Gothic-style castle, with graceful towers at the corners, near the old 16th century towers. Today, only memories remain of that original building.

Meanwhile, the uglovaya tower is almost ready to welcome its first guests. a weathercock has been placed on its tiled roof — an exact copy of that which was found fifty years ago, in the attic, by Mikhail Karpovich. Today, Mr. Karpovich heads the lyubcha People’s Museum. The original weathercock was made in 1581 — as confirmed by the date forged in the metal.

Those visiting this ancient fortress should know about its past as well as its present. Magnate Kishki began bui lding the cast le in lyubcha, making the place famous in the late 16th century. This inspired the award of an emblem for the village — a silver horseshoe decorated with three golden

A weAthercock hAs been plAced on the tiled roof —

An exAct copy of thAt which wAs found fifty yeArs Ago,

in the Attic, by MikhAil kArpovich. the originAl

weAthercock wAs MAde in 1581 — As conforMed by the dAte forged in the MetAl

hEritagE

to the town — depicting a knight protecting the castle.

The radziwills from Biržai were followers of swiss theologian Jean Calvin and founded a Calvin printing hose in lyubcha, publishing over 50 religious and secular books between 1612 and1655. The radziwills were also military men and were honoured for their bravery in battle, fighting Cossack ataman ivan Zolotorenko, who captured lyubcha in 1655 and destroyed the castle. as a result, the fortress lay in neglect. later, lyubcha was owned by the russian Wittgenstein counts. However, the castle was only restored when the Falts-Feins took over, repairing the old towers and placing chimes on the entry tower.

F r o m 1 9 1 0 - 1 9 1 4 , s t . e l i a s ( i ly inskaya) Church was bui lt , stretching its white towers towards the Heavens. it still stands proudly today, while the castle’s towers invite us to enter once more.

By Viktar korbut


homE to mindaugas’ first Capital and noBEl prizE winnEr’s forEfathErs

Modest charm

of Vornyany

Ostyk. The Ostyks were related to the radziwills who, in the 16th century, already owned half of Belarus.

Grigory Ostyk was a great adven-turer; while in Vornyany, he began active foreign political activity, nego-tiating with Moscow’s ruler, ivan the Terrible. He argued against the seizure of neighbouring Vilnius and the placing of lithuania and Belarus under the Tsar’s power. Moreover, Ostyk minted fake coins and stamps. eventually, he was arrested and all his property was confis-cated by the King. This was the end of Vornyany’s search for a worthy owner.

In Vornyany (in Grodno region’s Ostrovets district) every stone is laden with history. local residents will tell you the legend of the

‘dog lady’ who used to feed packs of dogs. she also loved to collect rare, old books, pictures and engravings. The town resembles a small Holland — with a roman Catholic church, a park surrounding the residence of former land owners and a pond with an island in the centre, on which a tower is situated. The centre of the town is impressive, with local people living in beautiful, Baroque style houses from the 18th century. Their façades look onto a spacious square unrivalled for two centuries. Only Nezavisimosti square in Minsk is larger. Vornyany’s square hosts no parades but was once used as a market place for craftsmen on fair days. The old lifestyle has been preserved, as local guide alexander Yurkoit explains.

grEaT PaTroNSlithuanian Duke Mindaugas is said

to have chosen a Belarusian city as his capital in the 13th century, after uniting his native lithuania and neighbouring Belarus under his single monarchy. although some believe Novogrudok became his residence, in the late 19th-early 20th century, Polish scientist Juliusz latkowski asserted that Vornyany was chosen. it’s no surprise, as the town is situated close to lithuania.

“The flavour of lithuania is still felt here, primarily, in the family names of local residents; in neighbouring Gervyaty and rymdyuny, some people still only speak lithuanian. ages have passed but the echoes of Mindaugas’ age remain,” notes Mr. Yurkoit. in the late 14th century, Vornyany was owned by the Grand Duke of lithuania, Polish King Wladislaw Jagailo. However, he didn’t own the mansion for long. Being a pious man, he presented it to the Catholic Church, who built a beautiful roman Catholic church for the town. it has many times changed appearance but has never moved to another place. anyone approaching Vornyany sees its spires.

FaTE guiDES ThE ToWNJagailo’s son — Kazimir — became

the next King of Poland and Grand Duke of lithuania and Belarus. He presented the town to his faithful servant, boyar sunigailo. However, sunigailo’s wife, Marina, failed to give birth to children, so Kazimir needed to search for another to bequeath the town to. Naturally, the monarch was unable to oversee all his mansions; he needed clever and wise assistants.

Duke svirsky — born in svir, not far from the town — became the next owner of Vornyany. However, he had too many

descendants, all of whom wished to own the beautiful city. The next Great Duke, alexander, thought carefully on the matter and eventually shared the lands between his three sons and six daughters (like solomon). Vornyany went to andrey svirsky, who had entered the Church.

16Th cENTurY aDvENTurErS Despite his high office, svirsky

enjoyed engaging in entrepreneurial activities, buying local lands and mansions. sadly, this roman Catholic priest and businessman made some hasty economic decisions and ended up having to pawn his property to the husband of his sister, Voevoda Grigory

sPot on thE MaP

NovEL NaMED ‘aBraMovich’ in 1581, King stefan

Batory passed Vornyany on to Yan abramovich, t h e r u l e r o f lida, Vilnius’ G o v e r n o r G enera l and Vo e v o d a o f M i n s k a n d s m o l e n s k . He i m m e d i -ately made the town his major residence and set up a school f o r y o u n g


the country’s supreme Court. “However, he failed to realise all his plans, as he died at a young age,” says Mr. Yurkoit, adding, “it was his idea to build a new — stone — church in Vornyany, to replace the wooden original. st. Georgy’s roman Catholic church, which decorates the main square of the town, took a while to construct. andrey’s son — Georgy abramovich (named in the same fashion as the church) — laid the corner stone. His good plans were finished by his widow — Martsianna. During her rule, Vornyany gained its present appearance.”

WaLkiNg Through ThE TWo cEN-TurY oLD SQuarE

after our walk, we decide to again ‘return’ to the 19th century, looking at old photos. They harbour memories of past times, depicting the palace of Vornyany’s aristocrats. it boasted wonderful furniture and paintings and, like any mansion of its time, resembled a mini-museum. However, where are these treasures kept now?

“according to documentation, the sniadeckis sold their property in the early 20th century. in 1913, the wooden building burnt down,” Mr. Yurkoit tells me. He has especially looked up the history of the palace in archives travelling to Vilnius. “Only the park and the neo-Gothic tower — resembling Kamenets Tower — remain intact. st. Georgy’s roman Catholic church is the luckiest. after WWii, it closed but, nevertheless, the building survived housing a chil-dren’s orphanage and a house of culture over the years.”

The church has been reconstructed and now borders the largest square in Belarus, which is over 200 years old. it has two lanes of houses, built over two centuries ago. We stop and imagine a bygone age, charmed by the beauty of the past, thinking of a time when there were no cars — only coaches — and when a stone house was a sign of true wealth. Vornyany exists as the abramovichs intended, comfortable, yet modest and enchanting, still delighting visitors.

By Viktar korbut

Polish gentlemen, at the roman Catholic church. Vornyany became a bright cultural and political centre.

abramovich was educated at the radziwills’ court before studying at italy’s Padua university, from where, fifty years beforehand, Doctor Frantsisk skorina — the publisher of the first Belarusian book

— had graduated. “abramovich was involved in printing too,” notes Mr. Yurkoit. “He wrote a

View on Purchasing Cheap Grain for resale at a

Higher Price — one of the first european

economic studies. it was a textbook for businessmen, written four hundred years ago; he was able to think in terms of modern market economies. Not only russian oligarch roman abramovich but his famous Belarusian namesake are worthy of a place in global history. it seems that these two personalities are similar in terms of some of their projects and influences.”

it’s time that a novel was written on Vornyany’s abramovich. His son — Mikolay — had a successful military career. He participated in wars and,

eventually, headed the artillery of Belarusian-lithuanian state. He was

even elected several times to the sejm — the country’s parliament.

uNDEr ThE PaTroNagE oF ST.gEorgY

in the mid-17th century, the next owner of Vornyany —

samuel andrey abramovich — studied in Holland, while

preserving friendly relations with the r adziwi l ls and Oginskis. unlike the town’s first owners, the abramovichs were able to find a common language with rival families.

in the mid-18th century, samuel’s descendant — andrey abramovich — became an influential lawyer and was even close to heading

sPot on thE MaP

St. Georgy's Catholic Church

in Vornyany


Quality Mark

Local brandsSeveral years ago, the ‘Buy

B elarusian’ and ‘Made in Belarus’ inscriptions appeared on the shelves of shops and hypermarkets.

Consumers immediately noticed, despite the fact that most of the food goods on sale were domestically manufactured anyway. recently, one more patriotic slogan was added — ‘Belarusian suits Me Best’. However, advertising specialists and manufacturers are yet to decide on a unified idea to push Belarusian goods to the front of the competitive queue. Moreover, specialists agree that constant appeals can have a negative affect, trans-forming from stimulators to irritants…

recently, the MasMi research agency conducted a survey entitled

att itude of B elarus’ Populat ion to Belarusian Goods. it polled a thousand people countrywide and the results were unsurprising: 88 percent regularly choose Belarus-made foods over those from abroad, with 11 percent choosing these in preference sometimes and 1 percent never. Belarusian food products completely satisfy consumers in their quality, price and natural ingredients. The situation with alcohol is worse, with only 47 percent of respondents preferring domestic brands while 45 percent buy sometimes and 8 percent never buy. The reasons are the same: good value and availability. However, Belarusians rarely choose domesti-cally-produced clothes and cosmetics

over imports, with just 30 percent being fans of Belarusian trademarks.

The recent international White square advertising and Marketing Festival organised a presentation of projects (held as part of the social advertisement competition) aiming to promote Belarus-made goods and services. Old hands and novices were unanimous in their opinion that ‘made in Belarus’ stickers on the shelves have little effect. Most agree that it’s difficult to encourage patriotism without expensive advertising and promo-tional shows. it seems that everything depends on creativity.

The major difficulty is that neither producers, nor marketing or retail specialists can decide on what makes Belarusian goods unique, for the purposes of advertising. We need to distinguish our goods from those which are imported. For example, we generally believe in ‘German quality’ and ‘French elegance’. Natural and ecologically clean ingredients could be our ‘trump card’, as explored by the recent festival. it’s being debated whether our domestic manufacturers (foodstuffs, furniture and construction materials) can shift to ‘green’ technologies within five years.

Practice shows that people prefer to choose their own regional brands over those from the capital or other regions, since they feel some local loyalty. Perhaps relatives, friends or neighbours work at a particular factory or enter-prise. This forms a special attachment to ‘Belarus made’.

Manufacturers need to really think about how best to add ‘zest’ to their products, to ensure effective promotion. The most vital element is to find a national slogan for use across all spheres, whether this be focusing on value for money, quality or natural ingredients. Belarusian foodstuffs have almost no rivals on the home market but manufac-turers of clothes, footwear and cosmetics need to consider their future sales strate-gies to ensure they keep a share of the global, and local, market.

By Polina knorina

national Campaign to promotE domEstiC goods

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Local brands


Promoting businessOver 200 participants from various countries presented their innovations at the 13th Belarusian Industrial Forum in Minsk

including those from the russian Novgorod and ryazan regions,

and from the city of izhevsk. The event brought a delegation from Kurgan region and from the republic of Chuvashia.

a l o n g s i d e g o o d s a n d services, the traditional inter-n a t i o n a l B e l P r o m e n e r g o exhibition and Technologies. equipment. Quality symposium were organised. a contest was held to promote energy effi-

ciency and resource saving technologies, in addition to co-operation exchange, dedicated t o e n e r g y a n d r e s o u r c e saving: science and Business solutions. The forum finished with a traditional contest of professional welding mastery.

Who can do more?The Belarusian Automobile Works has manufactured one of the world’s largest heavy-duty dump trucks, with 360 tonne load capacity and a 3,750hp engine

Five years ago, Zhodino’s car manufacturers pro-

duced their first 320-tonne dump truck, ordered by Kuzbassrazrezugol JsC — russia’s largest coal extracting enter-p r i s e . i t b o a s t e d greater technical abilities than anything before .

“Today, the factory can manufacture one 320-

360 tonne capacity dump truck each month,” notes BelaZ’s First Deputy Director General and Chief Designer of Quarry Machinery, Oleg stepuk. “This meets current demand for such machinery. By creating a 360 tonne vehicle, we’re rivalling the world’s leading quarr y machinery producers.”

Media’s duty to speak the truth thE intErnational mass mEdia in BElarus ExhiBition Expands EaCh yEar

This time, it showcased over 600 Belarusian and foreign outlets, including those representing the union state and the russian regions of

Bryansk, Moscow and Nizhny Novgorod. Workshops for journalists also took place, in addition to training master classes and round table discussions.

Topical problems were discussed, including the legal regulation of cable operators and the development of national diasporas. Veterans of the Great Patriotic War — who were honourable guests at the exhibition — joined in discussing the inadmissibility of distorting military history, such as revision of the Great Victory. sergey shukhno, the Deputy state secretary of the union state, also took part in the forum.

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SoyuzBelarus —russia


Field of high strain union statE programmEs hElp modErnisE agrarian sphErE

In the early 1990s, Belarus and russia faced a challenging situation. as traditional ties were broken, Belarus faced technical difficulties. it had

manufactured just 10-15 percent of the machinery and equipment necessary for its farming sphere and suddenly lacked the funds to acquire what it needed. Meanwhile, russian machine building plants lost orders; some stood idle. Without this machinery, our agrarian industry could collapse, so a techno-logical ‘revolution’ was needed. We needed to prevent agricultural output falling, while maintaining quality and reducing costs.

During those difficult years, Belarusian and russian agrarians (who never stopped their collaboration) decided to unite their scientific and technical potential to develop their own new generation agri-cultural machinery. Time has proven the wisdom of this decision.

FLax chaiNThe programme for enhancement

of Profitability of Flax Production and Processing — on the Basis of advanced resource saving Technologies and Machinery (Flax for short) — was outlined for 1998-2000. it only received a third of its funding but its results were highly praised by specialists. in Belarus (which once produced up to 30 percent of all flax in the ussr), a new machine building branch was created

from scratch. For almost a decade, our enterprises produced machinery for the planting and harvesting of flax — seeders, flax harvesters, balers and swath-turners — all 1.5-2 times cheaper than foreign analogues. some joint Belarusian-russian plants were established — such as that by the Belarusian National academy of sciences’ scientific-Practical Centre for agriculture Mechanisation and russia’s Tverselmash. This now annually produces several dozen self-propelling flax harvesters. Deep flax processing has also much advanced, with a facility producing flax oil in Tver working successfully for several years. it offers a valuable and popular product to the market.

Flax growers need modern techno-logies to process long grain — which is in great demand on the global market. Moreover, flax facilities need new gener-ation equipment. Flax-2 aims to solve this problem. russian and Belarusian scientists are already working on the project, hoping that their new machinery will raise average harvest volumes to 10 centners per hectare. This would lead to 50 percent more long grain production and cut imports of linen and cotton by 20-30 percent.

Each vEgETaBLE haS iTS PLacE another branch which lost its

former glory in the 1990s is potato growing. like flax, the branch has

lacked technical equipment. With this in mind, another joint project by Belarusian and russian agrarians — Potato — has received financing from the union state budget — almost equal to Flax. Potato farming previously relied largely on hand work but has now received planting machines, cultivators and movable sorting stations. These are now mass produced by Belarusian and russian enterprises. However, the potato growing branch still needs a whole complex of machinery and advanced technologies to ensure a rich and stable harvest.

The Head of the Department for Harvest Mechanisation and after-Harvest Processing of Plants at the Belarusian National academy of sciences’ scientific and Practical Centre for agriculture Mechanisation, alexander rapinchuk, is convinced that the Potato programme should be continued. apart from selling fresh tubers, processed potato crisps and starch products also have potential; at

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present, this niche is primarily occupied by imports but we can produce these domestically — providing jobs for union state citizens. it seems this avenue will find its place within the new programme on vegetable growing.

T h e p r e v i o u s Ho r t i c u l t u r e programme successfully finished two years ago. its results were primarily felt by customers who previously paid through the nose for imported vegeta-bles in late winter. Now, a diverse variety of domestically grown products are on sale, in addition to traditional carrots, onions, beetroot and white cabbage. runner beans, cauliflowers, green peas and leafy greens are all popular, with change possible due to major technical re-equipment on horticultural farms — using union state money. according to Mr. rapinchuk, 462m russian roubles have been spent on the Horticulture

programme, allowing the development of 10 new technologies and 26 types of import-substitution machinery and equipment. Growing vegetables in greenhouses is another technical issue. almost all equipment and metal constructions are imported at the moment, although domestic plants are capable of making them. Belarusian and russian agrarians have achieved progress in this sphere, with the Horticulture programme focusing on growing vegetables under glass. about 200m russian roubles are needed for this

purpose and the project is now under discussion.

‘LivE’ MoNEYFields bring profit only

once a year — during the harvest. Meanwhile, farms and animal-breeding complexes provide income all year round. Naturally, cattle breeding cannot be ignored. The Belarusian-russian Milk programme is now viewed as the

most successful project in the agrarian branch. Demand for new-generation milking and chilling equipment — developed by russian and Belarusian scientists — reaches hundreds of units annually, bringing over 300m russian roubles of profit. Money has been spent on the programme’s realisation but further improvement is required. We need to continue automating the milking process, improving equipment for milk storage and expanding our range of products. Doctor of Technical sciences, Professor Vladimir Perednya works as a chief research scientist, looking at the mechanisation of concen-trated fodder making, at the Belarusian Nas’ scientific and Practical Centre for agriculture Mechanisation. He participated in the Milk programme and believes the project should be continued. in coming years, growth

in milk and meat volumes is expected within the union state, much owing to joint work by agrarian-scientists.

early last December, the union state’s Council of Ministers approved proposals to develop a new Belarusian-russian programme — Creating import-substitution equipment to Produce Biologically sound Fodder on the Basis of resource- and energy-saving Technologies (Fodder for short). it’s expected that it will be approved in september, for realisation next year. import-substitu-tion facilities for feed additives should be made within the next three years, helping significantly enhance cattle breeding products and lower prime cost.

every year, Belarus and russia spend a great deal of money on feed additives — last year, $200m and $470m were spent respectively. However, these products — which increase meat and milk yield — can be produced domes-tically. Our factories simply need the right equipment. Mr. Perednya believes that we have sufficient raw materials to last several decades. We have huge amounts of mineral fortifiers for fodder, and plenty of meat waste (currently discarded but which could be used as protein fortifiers). The programme is worth 266m russian roubles and scientists believe it should pay for itself within three years. in 2011, the design of trial samples is to start and, in 2012, Belarusian and russian enterprises will receive orders. equipment will then need to pass tests and, if successful, batch production will begin. Dozens of enterprises in Belarus and russia will receive orders and thousands of workers will be able to receive good salaries.

scientists hope that these new projects — as well as those already being realised — will enhance the competi-tiveness of the union state’s agricul-ture, increase the export potential of the agricultural branch and improve villagers’ welfare.

By Lilia khlystun

progrAMM

Russian and Belarusian scientists are already working on the project, hoping that their new machinery will raise average harvest volumes to 10 centners per hectare. This would lead to 50 percent more long grain production and cut imports of linen and cotton by 20-30 percent.

"Flax-2"


Scientific approach innovativE sphErE drivEs intEgration

Our Cis governments have proclaimed 2010 to be the Year of science and innovations, encouraging co-operation in the inno-

vative sphere as the basis for future inte-gration. in this respect, the interests of Belarus and russia coincide, with many other Cis members ready to join in developing joint research.

The Cis focused on innovation during its Yalta meeting in November 2009, at a sitting of governmental heads. in april 2010, Moscow hosted the first session of the interstate Council for Co-operation

in sci-Tech and innovations — headed by the

Chairman

of Belarus’ state Committee for science and Technology, igor Voitov. Over the past four years, 650 high-tech produc-tion facilities have been set up in Belarus, with 360 involved in innovative design, so Mr. Voitov is able to act with some authority. in the coming years, we plan to triple exports of high-tech products and have earmarked Br44 trillion for innovative development and produc-tion modernisation. about 150 joint companies are to be established in the field of high technologies.

The state Committee for science and Technology is working with the Cis executive Committee’s e c o n o m i c C o -operation Department to enhance the sci-tech sphere within the Cis. an interstate programme of inno-

vative development (running until 2020) is the first step,

explains Mr. Voitov. “This programme needs to be

active, construc-

tive and interesting to all participants,” he stresses. He is supported by Yevgeny Novozhilov, the Deputy Chairman of the Cis executive Committee, who notes, “We should quickly build innovative economies.” The interstate Council is to be a catalyst for future progress.

Positive examples are already in evidence, with ten years of co-operation established between our russian and Belarusian academies of sciences and research institutes. in fact, our scien-tists have never broken their former close ties from soviet times, success-fully liaising in space research, iT and medicine. “Many union state programmes have become complex and are of huge interest to our two countries; they must be continued,” asserts Piotr Vityaz, the First Deputy Chairman of the Belarusian academy of sciences’ Presidium. speaking at a session of the inter-academic Council for union state Development, he stressed the Cosmos NT draft programme, which envisages the creation of a micro-satellite platform to send satellites (up to 150kg) into orbit. These will be able to provide

data for use in logistics, navigation, forestry and agriculture.

Belarusian and russian scientists insist on contin-

uing the development of GriD-technolo-gies and calculating systems — using the sKiF supercom-puter. Moreover, transgenic drugs are to be developed in the f ie ld of medicine, with legislation passed to govern the imple-mentation of stem

cell use. Medicines to treat cancer are

another avenue of development.

By Aelita SyulzhinaThe system administrator Nikolay lysyuk works with inspiration

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Transgenic goats under focusjoint ‘transgEniC’ projECt yiElds pErfECt rEsults

For over five years, Belarusian and russian specialists have been working together to create medical inno-vations. Now, they have

produced milk with lactoferrin — a unique protein, possessing powerful anti-bacterial, anti-allergenic and anti-cancer properties. last year, a joint programme was launched by the russian academy of science’s Gene Biology institute and the Belarusian academy of sciences: BelrosTransgene-2. The latter has brought undoubted success, with transgenic goats raised at a farm near Zhodino. industrial development and manufacture of drugs, cosmetics, unique additives and foodstuffs lies ahead.

“This isn’t merely a new protein; it’s a true breakthrough, marking the beginning of a new stage for the pharmaceutical industry,” note scien-

tists. The results of the union state BelrosTransgene programme appeared back in 2007, when the first Cis trans-genic goat kids were born at a farm near Zhodino — lak-1and lak-2. The new genes enabled milk production with the ‘wonder’ protein, although Belarusian scientists doubted whether the milk contained lactoferrin until the last moment. Tests conducted in Moscow confirmed their success.

“The russians boast a very serious scientific base and the latest equipment. They’ve also seen many developments with lactoferrin,” explains Belarusian alexander Budevich, who heads the livestock Breeding and Genetic engineering laboratory at the Nas’ scientific and Practical Centre for animal Breeding. “They’d already managed to create this substance in mouse milk but the yield was small, so we decided to join efforts.”

We’re now discussing major indus-trial production of the protein, in Belarus and russia. How can it be produced in milk? according to scientists, it isn’t a quick process and lactoferrin requires further investigation. amazingly, 1g of lactoferrin costed around $2,000 on the world market not long ago; one litre of goat’s milk on a Belarusian farm contains almost 6g of the expensive protein.

“The russians are proposing that we start developing medications to fight infections such as hepatitis, right now,” continues Mr. Budevich. “However, doctors need to know more about our unique protein — including how it’s extracted, purified and studied. Only then will we be able to start developing medications and food technologies and be able to construct manufacturing facilities in Belarus and russia. We’ll be producing milk, yoghurt, cottage cheese and baby food with lactoferrin. However, we need at least five years to develop these technologies and set up trial enterprises.”

at present, Belarus has no legislation regarding the use of this most precious protein. No medical preparation plant will agree to manufacture drugs from lactoferrin until it has been tested rigor-ously, so Belarusian scientists plan to purchase special equipment for the research. a biological laboratory is to appear, with specialists creating products from this unique substance. a new farm is also planned, rearing 250 transgenic goats. several dozen foreign breeding animals are to be bought, whose milk yields are much higher. specialists are currently working to create a transgenic herd, sending milk to Moscow for testing. The russians will also soon produce milk with lactoferrin. With assistance from Belarusian scientists, they have begun to breed transgenic goats at atlant experi-mental farm. Belarusian and russian participants are sure that the joint project has brilliant prospects.

By Polina Shumitskaya

Modern research work is very sophisticated

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Radiation under control fourth union statE ChErnoByl-rElatEd programmE to CommEnCE in 2011

The third prog- r a m m e — running f rom 2007 and 2010 — fo c us e d on

the joint liquidation of the consequences of the Chernobyl nuclear power station accident. an album of diagrams and tables has now been released, showing Belarusian and russian scien-tists’ newest conclusions regarding the present and future consequences of the most dramatic tragedy of the 20th century. Their report demonstrates how radiation in affected areas has transformed every aspect of life. Their forecasts cover the next few decades, until 2056, allowing us to predict the fate of any Belarusian or russian village located in the dangerous zone. “The atlas provides a generalised and scien-tifically systematised layer of informa-tion, accumulated since the Chernobyl explosion,” explains the Deputy Head of the Department for liquidating the Consequences of Chernobyl at Belarus’ emergency Ministry, Nikolay Tsybulko.

“The report is the work of 19

scientific organisations, ministries and agencies, in Belarus and russia, and has used data provided by ukrainian specialists. Our joint atlas aims to provide full and true information about the situation in the contaminated areas to state authorities, scientific organisa-tions, universities and to anyone inter-ested in the Chernobyl problem.”

in Belarus, 1,400 copies of the report are now in circulation, with the same number released on DVD. in russia, 1,000 copies have been released, sent to state and local authorities, ministries, agencies, scientific organisations, higher educational establishments and libraries.

The atlas includes a survey chapter illustrating the dynamics of radioactive pollution of agricultural lands, forests and rivers in Belarus and russia. it reflects the migration of radio-isotope cesium-137 and provides data on the situation in 1986, 1996 and 2006. Moreover, the book includes prognoses for each decade — until 2056. readers can learn how the population and economic possibilities of the contaminated areas have changed. it is the first comprehensive study of the Polesie radiation-ecological reserve — regarding contamination with caesium, strontium and trans-uranium elements. This covers an area of 216,000 hectares and only union state budget funding has make it possible to finish this major work, set to become an example for many decades ahead. The atlas contains basic information for use by the Government

and village councils, allowing them to make important decisions.

Joint liquidation of the consequences of Chernobyl is a basic article of the union state. in line with this, in 1998, the first Chernobyl-related programme

was launched; in 2003, the second came into operation. They both aimed to create a material-technical base to battle radiation. With union state funds, the republican scientific-Practical Centre of Medical radiology and ecology was built and equipped in Gomel; similar centres have been launched in russia. The third programme — due to finish in 2010 — is primarily of an informa-tive character. The Belarusian branch of the russian-Belarusian information Centre on Problems of Consequences of Chernobyl Catastrophe has been set up and laboratories to ensure testing of products from contaminated areas are in use. From 2009-2010 alone, Belarus conducted 16 pilot projects in this

in belArus, 1,400 copies of the report Are now in

circulAtion, with the sAMe nuMber releAsed on dvd.

in russiA, 1,000 copies hAve been releAsed


sphere, with results now available to all union state citizens.

a typical example is observed in the village of Terekhovka (slavgorod district, Gomel region) where horses are bred for their meat. The Chair of Zaryansky farm, Galina Kashcheeva, says, “in the first year, we bought 30 mares and now have over120 horses of different breeds — russian and soviet cart-horses and trotter cross-breeds. Our pasture covers 100 hectares and we’ve already sold 7.2 tonnes of low fat meat — used to make children’s food. No one will allow us to give contaminated products to children. Horse breeding costs are half that of cow breeding, so we are making a profit.”

scientists from the Belarusian scientific-research radiology institute have assisted in ensuring products are ‘clean’. They’ve studied Zaryansky’s lands, testing the grass for strontium. according to them, the pasture has plants of different varieties and only certain animals should be pastured there, to make sure radionuclides aren’t absorbed. an automated working place for the farm’s zoo-technician was created, allowing them to monitor animals’ pasturing, growth and accu-mulation of radionuclides. Never before have we studied horse breeding for meat

purposes under such specific conditions. “With our new method of pasturing and breeding, we’ve received good results,” notes alexander Tsarenok, who heads animal Breeding on Contaminated Territories, at the scientific-research radiology institute. He’s supervising the pilot project for horse meat and tells us, “all products have successfully passed tests, meeting Belarusian and russian sanitary norms and regulations.”

Ms. Kashcheeva plans to increase her herd to 200 and, later, to 1,000 horses. Demand is there so the possibilities are great. union state pilot projects also focus on the production of clean dairy products, the establishment of orchards, baking bread with iodine additives and laying cultured pastures. These should inspire mutual trade while raising competitiveness and profitability. as a result of these measures, citizens living on affected territories — previously viewed as doomed —are returning to normal life. social conditions are being established, as part of union state Chernobyl-related programmes.

The district hospital of slavgorod is a good example of what has been achieved. it is equipped with modern diagnostic and treatment equipment and has a special room

with a web camera, high-speed internet and a scanner for X-ray and ultra-sound pictures. Why does this small hospital need such modern equipment? it enables local staff to receive prompt, remote consultations from leading doctors. soon, all leading scientific-medical centres in Belarus and in the union state will be linked in this way. “it’s a great step forward,” believes Chief Doctor Yelena aksenova. “For example, we don’t have a cardiologist but — with telemedicine — we can promptly gain an opinion on the state and treatment of a patient. New medical technology has significantly cut the number of pathologies going undetected.”

The Director of the secondary school in the village of svensk (in the slavgorod district) is pleased with the new sporting equipment purchased using union state funds. 177 children from seven neighbouring villages and the district centre attend the school, so the benefit is wide-spread. Pleasingly, these boys

and girls have everything they need to enjoy sports — including a

gym, two tennis tables, a full set of camping equipment and skis with boots. several sporting clubs are opera-tional — specialising in boxing, football, track and

field athletics and ping pong. Meanwhile, the canteen

and dining room have been re-equipped

with union state assistance.

in 2011, Bela-rus and russia

are to start imple-menting another

programme aimed at the elimination of

the consequences of the Chernobyl catastrophe. Ministries and agencies are now developing its concept.

By Vladimir BibikovOlga lugovskaya demonstrates the atlas which provides a generalised sceintifically systematised layer of information, accumulated since the Chernobyl explosionA

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On 22nd June, at 4pm sharp

Vitaly Prokopovich, known for his popular military song if You Had Blessed Me, played a railway worker who helps Brest residents climb aboard a train…

Professional actors took the main roles, including Pavel Derevyanko, andrey Merzlikin, Yevgeny Tsyganov and young actor alexey Kapashov. Mr. Merzlikin played andrey Kizhevatov, who headed the 9th border checkpoint — wiped off the map.

The film was commissioned by union state TV and the radio Broadcasting Organisation — giving them 65 percent of the copyright; the remainder is held by Belarusfilm. it is the first union state cinematographic project, costing 225m russian roubles. Belarusfilm National Cinema studio and the russian Central Partnership Company shared shooting, with alexander Kott directing. The film was written by alexey Dudarev and Konstantin Vorobiev (of Belarus) and alexander Kott and Vladimir Yeremin (of russia).

a promotional clip of the film was presented at the international Mass Media in Belarus specialised exhibition, held in May, so its first objective critics were Great Patriotic War veterans — honourable guests at the event. They noted that the film had been shot at a highly professional level and truly reflected the heroic defence of Brest Fortress. Brest Fortress’ heroes — Gavrilov, Fomin, Kizhevatov and Petya Klypa — were played convincingly, as

Brest residents were able to confirm on seeing the full premiere on June 22nd.

“i was astonished,” states the Director of Brest Hero Fortress Memorial Complex, Valery Gubarenko — the film’s major consultant. “it’s a patriotic picture without any fiction…”

after the Brest premiere, the film is to be screened in Moscow and on

central TV channels in Belarus and russia.

By Valentina kozlovich

BrEst fortrEss film prEmiErEs

Past midnight. Thousands of Brest residents gathered at Brest Hero Fortress Memorial. all observe a moment of silence. This

year, the silence was broken by terrible pictures displayed on a huge leD screen, installed on Ceremonial square. There were shots, explosions and calls for help. The residents of trans-border Brest were being shown a clip from the Brest Fortress film. as promised, the reconstruction of 1941 events in the film was memorable.

it took four months to shoot the film (from July to October 2009), with the Kobrin side of Brest Fortress used. Half of Brest’s residents visited the film set and andrey Onishchuk, the Head of Brest Border Group’s Peschatka

checkpoint, was given a cameo role. in the archives of Brest Fortress Museum, cinematographers were shown a shot taken by a German photographer in the summer of 1941, depicting a dead border guard with his dog. according to the script, senior lieutenant andrey Onishchuk (who became a captain by the end of the shoot) played this soldier, with service dog Brigs. it wasn’t difficult for them, since they have the necessary experience of the job. “We planned to put Brigs to sleep for the final scene but he rose to the occasion, not even moving his ears when we commanded him to ‘play dead’. so, we didn’t need sleeping pills!” recollects Dmitry Devyatov, who heads Brest Border Group’s press service.

andrey Onishchuk isn’t the only border guard to have played a part in the film; many acted in a crowd

scene, playing soviet and German soldiers.

General Film Producer Igor Ugolnikov with the participants of the shooting

youth

Talented youngsters should venture

Few countries can say that they’re aware of their talented children by name while special databases

of gifted and talented youngsters have been created in Belarus. according to alexander lukashenko, the demand for these people is huge, “People have been trying for centuries to discover the secret of life power and prosperity of a state. some believe military power to be the most essential while financial wealth is the most important aspect for others. still others stake on the abundance of natural resources. However, the world’s history is full of examples when states rich in natural resources have passed into noth-ingness. The society where people stop thinking independently, creating and working inspirationally while turning into greedy consumers and mediocre depend-ents can’t be saved by either powerful

armies or huge treasures,” noted the Belarusian President on meeting recently the scholarship holders of President’s funds. “When creating our young and sovereign state and elaborating our own original model of development we’ve relied on spiritual powers and creative potential of the Belarusian nation, its abilities, intellect and hard work.”

…Vladislav Pligovka was among the first scholarship holders of the special Fund of the President of Belarus for the support of Talented Youth. 14 years later, he is again among those whom Mr. lukashenko personally shook hands and awarded a laureate’s badge.

Vladislav now studies at the academy of Music. in 2008, he won the accordion World Cup in the uK (accordion players, like athletes, also hold their world cham-pionships). This is one of his recent

achievements, due to which he found himself again among the laureates of the Presidential Fund. Overall, the young talent continually takes part and wins in various international competitions.

Belarus has managed to preserve and develop a network of gymnasiums and lyceums, as well as art schools and various children’s courses and clubs. all these are available to any child. “Gifted children are given huge opportunities for their personal growth and improve-ments in their favourite occupation,” believes Mr. lukashenko. “The most vital is to distribute them fairly, not to hide their talents in a napkin but to successfully self-realise themselves in their homeland,” added the Belarusian leader. “anyway, if you realise yourselves abroad for the benefit of your homeland, i won’t be against,” jokes the President.

i provocatively asked Vladislav Pligovka that musicians don’t earn enough in our country. He responded to me with juvenile enthusiasm, “Who said this? if people want, they can earn.”

The musician tells us that he has long saved money for a new accordion and has recently ordered an instrument from the italian masters. This ‘work of art’ costs 20,000 euros and the Presidential schol-arship turned up just at the right time…

Of course, the scholarship of the Presidential Fund won’t satisfy all youngsters’ financial needs. Moreover, it pursues another goal. “an expensive diamond requires expensive setting,” notes Mr. lukashenko. “Talents need to be assisted to break through and flourish.”

On farewell Mr. lukashenko addressed the young people in a philo-sophical way, “i advise you not to rest at your laurels. Those who stop will quickly slide down from the peak.”

i saw many familiar faces among the laureates, marked by the Fund previ-ously: a many-time winner of interna-tional iT Olympiads, Gena Korotkevich and our starlets of Junior eurovision — Ksenia sitnik and andrey Kunets. Young people continue to develop their talents, assisted by teachers and parents.

By Igor Slavinsky

ovEr thE yEars prEsidEnt’s two spECial funds (to support talEntEd youth and giftEd pupils and studEnts) havE ExistEd, 22,000 pEoplE havE BEEn awardEd


Favourable environment for ‘misfits’

ivan akhrEmChik arts gymnasium-CollEgE (minsk) EnCouragEs studEnts to show thEir fEElings in thEir work. thE quEstion of why thEy nEEd art nEvEr arisEs — ClEarly, it’s EssEntial for thEir souls

Even the youngest feel the life-giving force of art, stresses Galina Bogdanova. “This energy is reflected in their bright eyes and faces full of

inspiration…” The former journalist has surely gained insight through experience. For more than twenty years, she worked for a monthly edition called iskusstvo (art), helping from its earliest days of foundation. she used to write a lot about folk and fine arts, cinema and theatre. she also taught art History at the academy of arts, where she successfully finished her post-graduate studies. at the Journalism institute of the Belarusian state university, her work is still in demand. However, her main area of expertise is in teaching the subject at the arts Gymnasium-College — the akhremchik school, as it is often called.

Ms. Bogdanova once visited the school as a journalist, to interview

Director lyudmila shakhova. everything impressed her: the director, the creative lifestyle she had heard so much about and, especially, the children. Galina rightly says, “They are kissed by the lord.” accordingly, she decided to stay close, sharing her accu-mulated knowledge of art History. Her husband, artist Piotr Bogdanov, was already working at the school, teaching painting (he now heads the arts Department). Naturally, he told her much about the school environment and encouraged her to begin her new career. For more than a decade, she’s been teaching the history of Belarusian and world art, with a course in material culture for those who can’t imagine their lives without painting.

Galina recollects the names of all her students without exception. she notes that each combines fine arts talent with a rich inner world that she finds ‘enormously enriching’ on meeting them. indeed, it’s a

joy to observe the growth of the creative soul, opening like a flower in sunlight. i admit that i enjoyed talking to the children, who view their world with unique eyes, realising themselves through music, as well as fine and applied arts. i wrote about these young artists on seeing their works in late May. every May, the akhremchik school opens its doors, allowing students of all ages to put on a display of their creative works, for evaluation by teachers, parents, friends and anyone invited as a guest. it’s a chance to see our future cultural elite. This building in Makayonok street raises the next generation of artists, designers, sculptors and heads of creative studios…

Truly, these children are special. You can’t lie to them; their acute feeling for life sees through pretence. i would even say that they realise the truth much faster than any adult, owing to their feeling for the environment and other people.

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They have a constant desire to reflect what they hear and see through artistic images. i recall Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel The Master and Margarita, where Pontius Pilate speaks to Jesus. He asks, “What is truth?” and receives the reply — ‘at this moment, the truth is chiefly that your head is aching…’ By virtue of their natural sensitivity and spirituality, they can distinguish truth from a lie, subtly sensing the essence of existence.

i remember a young female artist from the akhremchik school listening to my critique of her still-life work. i noted that it wasn’t perfect, her colours being somewhat toneless. Out of the corner of my eye, i saw her shrinking…and realised that she’d rather accept my constructive criticism than blank approval.

Naturally, all children, however talented, are different. some are less sensitive and less vulnerable. some like critique more than others. Most, as Galina Bogdanova says, are unlike their peers. i hope the readers of our magazine will find it interesting to hear her thoughts on working in the thick of such talent.

Galina, what inf luenced your decision to work at this school… what impressed you?

The atmosphere swayed me. i began as a temporary employee and decided to stay. since childhood, i’ve lived in an artistic environment. i know its aroma and energy. it’s a pleasure to recall my father Boris sachenko — a well-known writer in the country — and my poetess sister, svetlana Yavor. Of course, my husband is an artist. Our children will most likely become artists too. alexander is already finishing his first year at the art Department of the academy of arts, while Yanka is taking entrance exams at the same university this year. all my friends are very creative people: painters, musicians and famous artists. i’m convinced that art allows us to rise above the routine, to look more optimistically at the world. it also gives us the chance to bring relief to ourselves and to those around us.

As a journalist, can you describe the atmosphere at the school and the most

characteristic feature of your talented young students?

a gifted person is always unusual. i would say that our students are misfits existing in a favourable climate. i’ve noticed that children ‘kissed by the lord’ don’t always feel comfortable in a regular environment. They’re searching for the deep essence of being. i often read them the poem of ‘The albatross’ by Baudelaire. like Baudelaire’s albatross, which is at ease in the sky and feels uncomfortable in other surroundings, since it longs for heaven and the eternal, they are drawn heavenwards. in the sky, the albatross is a brave and beautiful bird; on deck, it cannot walk, hampered by its unwieldy wings. Our students can feel similarly like misfits in real life. Their feelings are so much stronger than those of their contemporaries who are unrelated to art. On the surface, they are adapted to life; underneath, they have such a well of emotions.

How do you manage to steer their teenage energy without losing touch with reality?

We try to direct their energy down creative paths. When teenagers begin expressing themselves through art, they experience catharsis. They discover something about themselves and reveal their soul. We try to guide them to compare their own works with those from the past. it’s important to direct them to see their work in relation to the history of their country and the modern age. They should understand that today’s world has not occurred at random. We are products of our envi-ronment and of time.

B e s i d e s h a v i n g knowledge of a subject, a teacher needs to understand child psychology. Do these talented youngsters ‘know every-thing themselves’…?

Our teachers are very tactful in advising students. When someone comes for interview, Director lyudmila shakhova tries to discover if they will be a good fit for the school. Our main condition is kindness — a principle set when lyudmila’s mother worked here. We’ve continued this approach. Those who don’t treat children this way don’t stay for long.

I heard that your gymnasium-college is proud of its individual approach to students…

You’re right; we treat everyone indi-vidually. What’s more notable is that teachers don’t try to influence students to replicate their own idea of art. at some children’s exhibitions, you might see the style of the teacher; they’ve clearly imposed their own ideas of what’s desirable. We have a different aim: children study painting, sculpture and composition before creating high-quality, new work.

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The college student Katya Shimonovich worked with pleasure at the portrait of her

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i’m proud that we employ only the best artists to teach these specialised subjects, thanks to the administration. all teachers have their own portfolio but most have taken part in international exhibitions and are members of the union of artists. i’d like to emphasise that they all have teaching talent too.

The displays are evidence…Yes, we orient towards developing chil-

dren’s individuality. No single work is like any other. even if everyone is drawing still-life, each work will be different.

Today, there is a popular theory that we should accept the child in every person. Psychologists recommend that we em-brace this part of ourselves. Do you think that artists and teachers of art remain more childlike than the rest of us?

absolutely! i’d assume that our teachers truly fall into this category. Who can better understand a child than someone who remembers their childhood and youth, who likes games and art? all our teachers of art subjects, without exception, are interesting people. They preserve the tenderness of their own childhood. i won’t name names, since i’d be obliged to say so much about each of these bright person-alities. They include sculptors, graphic artists and painters. some took part in the international Delphic Games, winning many times. similarly, their students also participate in these competitions and take prizes. it’s continuity.

Do you encourage competition between students? Do you see it often?

Most likely, it exists, but is exclusively of an artistic character. Wonderful work can inspire the others. When i began teaching here, i was impressed at how comfortable the children were, and how supportive of each other. They are generous in their feelings and in everyday life. There are no age barriers between them either; the older ones treat the younger with great respect, while the young feel at ease with the older.

What is the main criterion for selection to the school?

We take children not only from Minsk, but from all of Belarus. We have two depart-ments: musical from the first grade, and arts from the fifth grade upwards. Many

children are from single-parent families and some are talented orphans. Our school is also unique in providing boarding facili-ties for those who need them. What’s most important is to allow access to workshops and music classes at any time of the day.

What attention is paid to general subjects?

They’re taught at gymnasium level. Our daily timetable gives the children enough time for art; we know that musicians and singers usually make their most genius discoveries at a young age. a talented child in our environment can constantly improve his or her professional level. i’m delighted, as i not only take part in the creative process of teaching my subject but can observe everything that happens — like a chronographer seeing the unique atmosphere that these children are raised in.

Ma ny s c h o o l s in the country offer an artistic education…

You’re right, but there is no other school like ours in Belarus. it’s no exag-geration to say that there is nothing similar in Western europe, which is known for favourably state educating young talents. Of course, there are private schools. There are also schools for gifted people in the sciences. There are similar institutions in russia and in lithuania, but none unites music, fine arts and general education. interestingly, in winter, our children can easily reach the shops from their dormitory without putting winter clothes on.

Which famous artists studied at your school?

Victor Olshevsky, Felix Yanushkevich, alexander Ksendzov, ales Dranets and svetlana Gorbunova — all are the pride of Belarusian fine arts. Thinking of musicians, we have Nastya Tikhanovich — the singer and producer. The twin-girls from ‘Three Plus Two’ — which performed

at ‘eurovision-2010’ — also graduated from our school. Their grandmother brought them. later, they also finished the conservatoire. By the way, the costumes for young singer Yuri Demidovich — who last year represented our country at chil-dren’s ‘eurovision’ — were made by our alumni Valentina Piskun, who has become a designer. among our students, there are many scholarship holders of the President’s special Fund for support of the Talented Youth. Our children need material assist-

ance and no money is wasted. They buy materials, albums, colours and paints, while the musicians save for new musical instruments and stage costumes.

After graduating from the g y mnasium, which gives primary education in the arts, not everyone goes to your college, do they?

as a rule, most continue studying at our school after attending the gymnasium. Our college offers three majors: decorative and applied arts, sculpture and painting. College graduates who have obtained secondary vocational education may start teaching in the primary grades of the secondary school, or may continue studying at higher educational establishments.

How many of your former students now study abroad?

There are some examples, but not many. some attend the famous surikov

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school in Moscow, some are in st. Petersburg. also, some go to Vilnius. One girl studies in london. Most stay at home. i’m pleased that our graduates make up the majority of students at the art Faculty of the academy of arts.

What qualities of your students impress you the most as a teacher and a very creative person?

it is their diligence. No matter whether there is a teacher nearby or not, whether their work is graded or not, all of them go to shops to work after the daily curriculum. even on weekends. For them creative work is their natural condition. sometimes when a child comes from another school and the first feeling is that of freedom, but then he or she starts having a constant stable desire to create. Hardworking brought up with years and teachers’ example is a very valuable thing. it is owing to tenacious work that our children become bright representatives of the country’s culture. even if they don’t manage to become famous artists, i’m confident they

will build their own creative world no matter where they will work.

You maintain creative ties with foreign partners, don’t you?

Naturally, such creative contacts help us move forward. We’ve established connec-tions with an arts school in Torino (italy), whose students come to us to study. Our children have also visited Torino. The

italian delegation was greatly impressed by our very serious approach to education. They asked whether such academism is needed in a creative envi-ronment. We explained that, in order to fly, you need to push off from something. in our view, the classical school gives this founda-tion. We also have ties with the uK and Germany. One German charity organisa-tion once presented tents

to our school. They are now often used when our students go to open air classes. embassy staff are also frequent guests.

It’s obvious that your students often win prizes at various contests and take part in exhibitions.

it is more a rule than an exception. For instance, there is the ‘Chernobyl Children’s’ exhibition in the usa. We regularly send them our works, and they regularly send us diplomas. One of our students, Vitovt Kashkurevich — the grandson of prominent artist arlen Kashkurevich, won a prize. another girl won a contest in india. Our graduates have represented the country at the Delphic Games in the Cis, hosted by astana (Kazakhstan), and at international games in saratov (russia). Two years ago, Minsk also hosted the Delphic Games and one of our girls took gold. They don’t enter contests purely to win; they rather want to share their vision. Owing to their teachers, they can do this professionally. By doing this, they create the image of our time. We try to organise exhi-bitions in small and large towns in Belarus: our children are very open to dialogue.

In your many years of work, which students do your remember the most?

i remember the names of all my child-ren, because they’re so bright and sensitive. They perceive the world’s colours and sounds with subtlety! Who could forget? i love them all. each helps me to under-stand the present. We discuss art works and they make surprisingly acute observations. Our classes are always very interesting. We have many exciting projects. For instance, one was dedicated to leonardo da Vinci. i remember my first graduation class: it included children born in 1985 — i call them ‘perestroika children’. Perhaps, something found its way into their genes, influencing them and giving an open perception of life. i recollect, on the 8th March, i come into the classroom and saw a ‘beehive’ attached to the ceiling — a box entwined with threads. it was their greeting to me for the holiday. later, we began discussing the meaning of this installation and came to the conclusion that it was a symbol of the diligence so char-acteristic of bees. it symbolised our desire to stay together. When hard times arrive, it is your friends and teachers who will give you a spoonful of honey. This beehive was a symbol of our arts school and remains in my room. This year, my graduation class is also very bright. every child has prepared an unusual diploma piece of work.

You noted that the older children easily communicate with the young. How do they get on with adults? Have you ever heard them deny the values created by their elders? It’s a common thread.

We have continuity, as our institution encourages dialogue between the genera-tions — between teachers, students and families. i was recently impressed by a portrait drawn by one of our students, aged 16. she’d created a wonderful picture of her 90 year old grandmother, a war veteran, for her birthday. it was so optimistic and bright, while being bold and respectful. This is the dialogue of generations, our dialogue with history. Denial is natural but it is also creative. Just as there are people who live with a ‘philosophy of being’, others appreciate material values more. Neither is good or bad, they just exist. everybody makes their own choice.

By Valentina zhdanovich

Creative spirit of workshops

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faMily priorities

Children’s world

In the early 1990s, after the collapse of the soviet union, its former republics had to determine their own path of development into unchar-

tered territory. as ‘self-awareness’ peaked and enterprises closed, leaving people without jobs or salaries, orphanages founded during the soviet years were flooded with children whose parents felt unable to care for them. These children may have been left to the mercy of fate by their parents but became a priority of state p r o t e c t i o n . Fo s te r c are rs a n d t e a c h e r s replaced their own dear family.

at the time, everyone under-stood that the s y s t e m w a s n o t i d e a l , since nothing c an re p l a c e the love and n u r t u r e o f o n e ’ s o w n family, g iving us exp er ience and social skills for life. However, during those times of economic insta-bility, the most vital

thing was to protect the children, providing them with safe shelter, quiet sleep, good nutrition, warm clothes, an education and encouraging words.

Years later, when those troubled economic times had become a thing

of the past and the country had gradually gained strength, a new state strategy was outlined for such children. Family upbringing again

became a priority. in early 2000, the foster families began

to develop in Belarus, with foster carers employed by the state. The advantages were imme-

diately evident. in most cases, it was successful, with foster parents chosen carefully and receiving training. Children from orphanages at last gained

a ‘real’ family with whom to share joys and sorrows.

The next step in state policy

w a s Decree No. 18,

adopted b y t h e

Head of state in 2006, ‘On additional Me asures for the state Protection

of Children from Troubled Families’; this stipulated parents’ responsibility for children and for their future. The aim was to try to keep children with their biological parents. Where both mother and father abdicated responsi-bility (sometimes suffering from alco-holism) they were obliged to undertake community work to compensate for the expense of the upbringing of their children. it wasn’t an easy path, since many were unused to working — or were unwilling to work — but, eventually, it inspired many to rethink their lives.

NEW TWiSTin 2005, Belarus felt the wind of

change when the first orphanage was dissolved in Gomel district — the Teryukha Children’s House. it had once been ‘packed’ with orphans but its last director, regina Karpezo, recol-lects the closure without regret.

“We spent years working with foster families and looking for new parents for our children. Within five years of joint effort, the number of children under state care fell several fold and we decided to close our insti-tution. Teachers from our children’s house became foster parents, adopting the remaining children, as we didn’t want to pass them on to other state institutions. The children desperately needed families.”

The association of foster families in the district — one of the largest in the region — continues to work with chil-dren’s own biological families, helping preserve the family unit and rehabili-

A new family is waiting for

this girl

tEn yEars ago, only inCuraBlE optimists would BEliEvE that statE orphanagEs would ClosE in BElarus duE to laCk of nEEd. howEvEr, thE inCrEdiBlE has happEnEd


priorities faMilyE

tating parents to allow them to take responsibility for their children again after a break. it organises meetings, holidays and training seminars.

Today, its experience has been disseminated throughout Gomel region, which is demonstrating the best results in the country. Over the last five years, four state institutions for homeless children have closed, with two more soon to close. Out of 5,000 children, over 4,000 are now being brought up by foster and other families. a professional trade union has been formed, in addition to associations, and they have their own festivals and honours board. The greatest victory of recent years is the decision to close down the largest school for homeless children in Gomel region.

FiNaL PagEThe school opened in 1963, housed

in a pre-war building. it initially catered for about 140 children, with the number rising steadily. By the 1990s, it was overcrowded and, ten years ago, the authorities tried to

solve the problem by moving it into a new building. it was hoped that 12 residential and household buildings, accommodating 350, would provide the necessary facilities, but it was not to be…

By the early 21st century, it was falling into ruin, trying to accommo-date around 450 children in its tight space. Crowds of children would rush down the dark and narrow corridors. i recall seeing them peer through the iron grids of their balconies, strictly regulated by the rules of the school, with no exceptions.

Today, just 66 pupils, aged 10-17, are resident. More than half will be finishing this year, entering secondary special and higher educational estab-lishments. eight children are being prepared for their chosen foster families. By the end of the summer, the remaining 20 children will also have new homes lined up for them. it’s crucial that no mistakes are made.

Family has been a state priority for some years, as well understood by the District education Department.

“We’re working hard to find children families and only leave them with the children’s house in Gomel as a last resort,” notes the Head of the boarding school, Yelena Barkova. “The balconies are unusually empty.”

“are children at school or away recuperating?” i ask. “There aren’t any children here,” Ms. Barkova tells me. “it’s home to junior pupils for a short while longer but we haven’t received any small children for some time. last year, the building was locked up; we’re using just 5 buildings out of 12.”

alumni girls remove curtains from the windows of the empty room. Their next plans are to study. sveta Mishura is entering the architecture Department while Kristina Yeliseeva is to become a junior school teacher. “i have a little sister here but i’m not worried,” Kristina notes. “Our elder brother, who is now 22, will take her and is now filing for guardianship. On one hand, it’s somehow sad that the school is closing, since we’ve spent so many years here. On the other, it’s good…”

By Violetta Dralyuk

Sisters liza Suzdaleva and Kristina Yeliseeva hope for the happy futureClose of the orphanage


CoMPEtitions

Many countries already have t he i r ow n national versions of this game and, not long ago, it came to

Belarus. However, the Belarusian league has a major difference: in addition to a men’s team, a women’s team is fighting to be acknowledged best. During their usual daytime routine, they work, study and play sports. However, twice a year, they become passionate gamers, scrutinised by the nation. among their recent achievements is victory in the final series in autumn, a small prize for the best players of the season, a finals win in the winter series, and a large prize for best player. No doubt, these ladies decorate the league and are a serious rival to the men’s teams.

The captain of the What? Where? When? women’s team, alena Povysheva, answers our questions.

Alena, what has been the most inter-esting question you’ve ever heard.

mEn in BlaCk suits and ladiEs in BlaCk EvEning drEssEs, mirrors and Crystal… is it an offiCial rECEption or a dinnEr party? no, this is a sitting of thE tv CluB of ExpErts — what? whErE? whEn?

Probably one about a portrait of the artist Malevich; we were shown an abstract reproduction and asked to say who was depicted. it was impossible to distinguish the facial features and we came up with nothing during our discussion. When the time to answer came, i happened to turn the picture and saw that it was black on the other side. The correct answer imme-diately came to me.

Does this mean that seemingly very complicated tasks have simple solutions?

Yes, quite often … not just in the game but in life in general. all we need to do is look at a problem from another angle.

A game is a game. Is it sometimes difficult to hide your nerves?

sometimes we cope badly. For example, during our first game, we were so anxious that we lost. However, there is always a first time. Moreover, you learn from bad experiences.

Have you ever cried while sitting at the table?

Intellectual gamesOf course! after the autumn finals,

we were all crying! We were under such stress, as we had to prove to everyone, especially ourselves, that we were worthy players. Once everything was over, it was difficult for us to keep our tears in check.

How is a team captain chosen? Were you pleased to take on the job?

i wasn’t asked whether i wanted to or not. When people gather and start playing, sooner or later, someone needs to take the reins — to whip you up, choose an answer and encourage.

What’s most important during a discussion — erudition or wit?

it depends on the situat ion. sometimes even insight is needed.

A captain bears huge responsi-bility, being obliged to choose an answer from several suggestions. How do you make decisions? Does your woman’s intuition help?

You need to analyse all the ideas and understand which suits best. ideally, the whole team should do this but it often happens that a captain has just several seconds to decide. sadly, intuition rarely helps.

Have you ever experienced ‘star’ illnesses?

some players on our team have symptoms but i hope it will soon pass.

My last question: does the ability to think clearly and quickly help

you in life?Of course. it helps during

work and study. experience and knowledge can actually hinder you. experts are often given something unusual to ponder in the game, whereas it can be difficult to find anything new and interesting in our everyday life.

By Elena andrushkevich

Belarusian 'What?Where?When?' league finds a place for a women team


City

Water melodyfirst fountain appEarEd in minsk ovEr 130 yEars ago

i don’t know who invented the technical wonder that we know as a ‘fountain’, or when, but we should never forget

their great achievement. Fountains are not only a beautiful adornment to our environment; they embody our desire for quiet spiritual contemplation. it’s said that two things can be watched endlessly: fire and water. Perhaps this is why fountains have always been so attractive, with prominent archi-tects creating wonderful complexes at royal palaces. We may not have seen the beauties of Versailles or Petergof ourselves, but we can all enjoy our local fountains. Minsk boasts several dozen, with one being very special.

Constructed back in the 19th century, in May 1874, Minsk’s first fountain was graced with Boy with a

swan sculpture, installed in the city to honour the launch of a water pipe bearing pure artesian water. The city’s Minsky listok newspaper wrote in 1887: ‘The city revives in the evening, with residents coming out of their luxurious houses, hotels and poor huts. some sit on benches near the entrance while others slowly promenade near their homes, watching passers-by. some are more ostentatious, gathering in a special place for open air celebrations. This is a city garden, a ‘Tivoli garden’, a public garden located in the capital’s centre. The water in the fountain used to have fish and turtles swimming in it, now, an iron swan with a boy uselessly opens its beak.’

Today, the fountain graces Minsk’s alexandrovsky Park. The original was

created in 1833-1834 by Berlin master Theodor erdmann Kalide. During the exhibition in london in 1851, he was awarded a medal for this sculpture and an order for the same composition was placed by the British Queen. Copies of his sculpture are found in Berlin, Wrocław and Chorzów, in silesian towns, in Warsaw’s royal Park and, even, in New York. Chorzów workshops still have the moulds to allow more to be cast.

according to some data, in the 1930s, it was suggested that Minsk’s first fountain be given a monument to those who fought in the revolution (topical for the time). However, the idea wasn’t taken up. after WWii, the damaged fountain was restored by famous Belarusian sculptor Zair azgur.

in 1981, two hooligans decided to swim in the bowl and broke the sculpture. it’s taken much time to restore it but, now, the renewed fountain gathers Minskers and guests on warm days, listening to the gurgle of water and chatting with friends, as they did over 130 years ago.

By Oksana zhuravleva

The fountain on the Independence square is always crowded with people

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Wheel of time by Valeriana Zholtokartist’s works lEavE Bright imprEssion of many-faCEtEd palEttE of agE

T alented people always retain their place in h i s t o r y, a c c o r d i n g to what they create. Their expressive stamp

sticks in the memor y. Valeriana Zholtok’s art ist ic geography has placed her among the rich diversity of our national fine arts. in fact, she is a true national artist and her works sti l l attract us with unex-plained force. she discloses vivid emotions of kinship.

The recent exhibit ion at the National art Museum of Belarus was dedicated to the 90th anniversary of Zholtok’s birth. Her works remain a bright example of how true art can surpass the borders of time, touching our hearts even several decades after it’s created. The secret of her artistic success and great popularity with experts and amateur art-lovers

painter at the state Opera and Ballet Theatre. Of course, these facts from her biography speak little about her art ist ic achievements. The most eloquent fact is that over 40 works by Valeriana are kept by the National art Museum, the Belarusian union of artists and Minsk’s Modern Fine arts Museum. it’s not easy to reach such heights — especially for a female artist, irrespective of her talent.

“My mother worked easily and with pleasure,” notes her daughter, elvira Poznyak. “To her, being an artist was the same as being a person, a woman, a mother. she was a talented painter, able to do so much, but this doesn’t mean that she didn’t expe-rienced doubt, disappointment and failure. However, these never scared her. On the contrary, she became convinced of the need to find ways to implement her plans, searching for

art

alike is explained by the charm of her pictures. They attract us with their modern themes and perfectly painted landscapes and sti l l- l ife images. These genres reveal the true nature of her talent. she had a light touch, a lyrical perception of nature and human life. she had inexhaust-ible optimism, kindness and a female view on the world — which brings inanimate objects to life. Her delicate painting style, using transparent colours and secret tones and semi-tones, commands us to look closely; her palette whispers, persuading us to listen more carefully. all is harmony.

Valeriana Zholtok was born in Zhlobin (Gomel region) to a railway worker’s family. in the late 1930s, she studied at Vitebsk’s art College. This Honoured Figure of arts of Belarus then worked as a decorator-

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Wheel of time by Valeriana Zholtoknew techniques, which she still might reject. This was my mother’s way; she was so determined. Her failures were never the result of helplessness but, rather, of dissatisfaction with her work and her own high standards.”

Valeriana Zholtok participated in art exhibitions from 1946 onwards. in the post-war years and early 1950s, she painted landscapes, genre-pieces and sometimes still-life works. Most of her canvases are devoted to native Belarus and children — such as 1st september (1951), Winter Comes (1954), By Fire (1956) and Friends (1963). some show Belarus during the Great Patriotic War years — such as To Partisans for Help (1957), enemy Passed (1964) and return (1967). Her lyrical land-scapes Flood (1958) and roads (1964) embody her love for nature.

Many of her works were created in a realistic manner, resembling

pieces by russian painters. Valeriana Zholtok’s attention to genre-pieces and children’s themes was not acci-dental. at that time, she was much interested in a life of peace, revelling in the pleasant calmness in the world. artists often reveal their feelings via children’s images — as seen in her works. Belarusian pictorial art of the 1950s focused on the military theme, as related to everyday life. it was seen as a way of showing artistic maturity, enabling painters to observe, analyse and generalise their surroundings. Only genre-pieces were allowed to reveal positive and negative facts in a realistic manner; of course, an artist needed to have significant life expe-rience, a sense of morality and a high level of mastery.

it’s no surprise that Zholtok’s best genre-pieces reflect the unique features of the 1950s. she used

strong themes, giving each character their own role. audiences don’t need to think much, as she clearly disclosed her vision. Her characters are so brightly depicted that it’s like seeing a snapshot of real life. Natural pictorial art follows this formula and Zholtok’s best works also embrace it, as was popular at the time.

landscapes stand out in Valeriana’s works. at first sight, it seems to be her major genre. However, her numerous landscape sketches — made over the years — are like the unique diary of a traveller. she gives us her impressions and avoids moving from concrete observations. she has no desire to generalise, as seen especial ly in pictures created abroad. as a guest, Valeriana Zholtok careful ly and kindly admired the unusual beauty of unknown places. “i wished not only to see but to remember this beauty,”

art

Only a part of V. Zholtok's works panorama at the exhibition dedicated to her 90th unniversary


she wrote in her diary. However, she was only able to capture the deep essence of the landscape in her own homeland. she knew well how spring begins in Belarus and how autumn approaches. she was aware of the charm of Belarusian winter and the secrets of fresh summer. Nevertheless, still-life was the focus of Zholtok’s artistry, allowing her to fully explore herself as an artist. Her

art

they’ve achieved. However, knowing that your ideas have been understood and accepted by audiences brings even greater joy,” said Valeriana.

she ‘discovered’ still-life as her favourite genre in the late 1950s — creating her earliest — and most signifi-cant — works: spring (1957) and Forest Bell-Flowers (1958). straightforward in perception, yet ripe with meaning, they marked a new level of her mastery.

evolution as a painter from the 1950s to the 1980s is evident.

Valeriana was a delicate artist, loving to observe and ponder her surroundings. still-life gives artists the chance to be patient, removing them-selves from the fuss of every day life. The genre requires dedication for talent to be realised. “On understanding this, an artist is honoured by the pleasant feeling of discovery, gladdened by what

Valeriana Zholtok’s artistic geography has placed her among the rich diversity of our national fine arts. In fact, she is a true national artist and her works still attract us with unexplained force

Still life Winter comes, 1954


art

Moreover, they brightly indicated the renewal of Belarusian pictorial art. For Zholtok, this was a time of discovering the beautiful charm of her native land.

Zholtok’s still-life works often depict flowers, giving a festive yet solemn mood. she attentively selected blooms, recreating the palette independently to achieve harmony and emotional colour, as seen in her works red Mountain ash, autumn leafage and Blue still-life from the 1970s. They all boast a pronounced national character, stressing that these beautiful sights are found in Valeriana’s native land. she painted berries and folk objects — full of bright, expressive colours, making her works modern. in the 1950s, she launched a folklore-ethnographic theme in Belarusian still-life. Her understanding of national character is evident in her depiction of rushniks and folk ceramics.

in 1958, Zholtok painted Forest Bell-Flowers, which marked a turning

point for Belarusian art in the late 20th century. she simply depicted a wooden village house with an open window and a jug with a huge bunch of forest flowers placed on a rushnik. even now, its bright colours are enchant ing. it arouses intimacy and reflects her optimistic view of the world. in fact, the picture is a poem about nature, nostalgic and personal.

Valeriana Zholtok’s artistic ‘luggage’ is rich. evidently, she sought her own unique national style. Her mastery is still loved and shall remain so, being eternally appealing. True art never loses its popularity; it lives today and tomorrow.

By Victor kharkov

Admirations with the seen Portrait. Spring. 1960

The artist's daughter E.Poznyak accepts congratulaions during the exhibition

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Stork’s nest on the roofjuBilEE skEtCh

A boy about ten years old… fair-haired… with an open look… wearing a blue checked shirt… runs down a hill … early

summer… July… hot… the scent of newly mown grass, honey and bread…

The boy’s face shows great joy — the joy that only a small child can know. even his inability to live in the clouds like a bird doesn’t sadden him. He remembers well what it is to fly from his dreams, and he believes in miracles…

i never knew this boy at that tender age, when everybody believes in miracles. The boy running down the hill is alexey Dudarev. The image in my memory was born of a visit to Dudarev’s home village of Zaruby in 1983, following a family trip together to the azov sea; we were on our way back to Minsk, where his son Maxim was just about to start school. The scene appears in my mind like the beginning of a film. alexey showed us around his village in Dubrovno district of Vitebsk region, pointing out where he studied (now, a museum) and played with his peers.

Picturesque landscapes are imprinted on my memory. i see hills behind the village and the endless view from them. i remember the confidential tone of alexey’s voice recollecting his youth. He spoke of his father, anufry iosifovich, and mother, anastasia Yefimovna. she died when alexey was fourteen, leaving him to be brought up by his father and another woman, agafia Ksenofontievna. agafia introduced herself as Grandma Gasha when, after a long ride in the car, we entered her cool house, scented with cucumbers, fried eggs and boiled potatoes. During breakfast, alexey’s voice became somewhat subdued and tender, as if the June sun had melted it. it happens when a man returns to his parents’ house and feels comfortable. several times, i’ve seen alexey soften like this, speaking of those he trusts.

at the time of our Zaruby trip, our friend was already being described as a future bright dramatist in Belarus, with several plays having been staged


PErsonality

in Belarusian theatres and abroad. His scripts had been used to produce films, in which alexey had also acted. i recollect him rejoicing over his first published collection of stories — The sacred Bird (1979). after graduating from the academy of arts in acting, he’d worked at the Young spectators’ Theatre. i well remember his funny skomorokh — from the fairy-tale One Trouble for all — and his Barber in the play edith Piaf — a lover of the great singer. in my view, it was his best role, revealing his romantic individuality. in real life, he hides this cleverly. it’s no exaggera-tion to say that he could have become a very good character actor. For some time, alexey used to combine his acting work with his writing, working at the Young spectators’ Theatre as Head of the literature Department. However, his craving to write prevailed. His closest and longest friends, theatre colleagues and classmates, gather at each premiere, at children’s birthdays and at other pleasant family events, always rejoicing in alexey’s theatrical and f i lm successes. People’s Writer andrey Makayonok, shortly before his death, recalled alexey, saying, “Don’t worry, Dudarev will replace me”…

Back in 1983, 33 year old Dudarev’s Privates was being

staged for the first time at the Yanka Kupala National academic Theatre, to wide acclaim. soon, White rosy was released, making alexey famous as a film writer throughout the soviet union. later, this fame grew. at home, Dudarev’s desk bore a map covered with red flags marking those places in the ussr, and abroad, where his plays had been staged. later, new plays and films were followed with titles and awards…

Today, alexey is artistic Director with the Belarusian army Drama Theatre and Chairman of the union of Theatre Figures of Belarus. He is still a very prominent person, with plays having shown in 142 theatres worldwide. There are even plans to stage his Privates in australia. On seeing him recently, he chuckled that his hand had been shaken by the russian President the previous week. He has always had a wonderful sense of

humour, transferring some of his jokes into his plays. Watching a performance, i often feel that i’m hearing alexey’s voice.

Fame has never been a burden to him; he willingly goes into schools, universities and libraries to speak and attends various festivals. His works are studied in literature classes at schools and universities. He’s been to many places — near where he lives and far abroad — and has met many outstanding people. No doubt, this has given him further inspiration for crea-tivity… Nevertheless, the majority of his favourite characters in his plays are Belarusians, common folk whose unre-served sincerity always wins us over. Perhaps this is because he’s a very frank person himself, and because Dudarev is

a patriot and proud of it. in my opinion, fame hasn’t changed alexey’s ability to make friends

My happiness is in everything: in what I have and in what I don’t; in what I will have, even if I won’t have anything. If you survive the most severe tests of your life, you remain happy because you are alive. Life itself is a great happiness. I live with the feeling of its fullness

Final scene of Alexey Dudarev's jubilee

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and to comply with requests; he’s not let success go to his head.

Naturally, alexey is a little different from the ‘common man’ — sometimes explosive, sometimes too emotional. He can be sharp in defending his opinions and calls his character unbearable but he also follows the ‘golden’ rule of treating others as he’d wish to be treated. He is absolutely confident that the same standards should apply to ourselves as we expect from others. He also believes that all our activity is potentially creative, regardless of our profession. He says that a good shoemaker can be a poet and a bad poet can be a shoemaker.

spring… May… summer house near logoisk… alexey’s wife, Valentina (his stalwart support) plants flowers: hyacinths, tulips and narcissus… elder son Maxim busies himself with a camera nearby. Daughter alesya appears with her father, who is carrying a huge armful of bird cherry branches to add the last stroke to the greeting bouquet for his wife’s birthday. They are immediately

approached by grandson arseny and charming granddaughter ioanna…

Dudarev always congratulates his wife and other family members in a very original way — taking them for horse rides or cruises on the boat he made himself, treating them to helicopter trips or gifts of Czech crystal in unimaginable shapes.

When i speak to alexey Dudarev, i always imagine him as the lad running down the hill, especially at those moments when he smilingly demonstrates his summer house economy. He treats us to home-made fizzy kvass, made from birch sap, and takes us to his wooden river moorage — also hand-made. Dudarev adores his summer house in logoisk district (also called Belarusian switzerland). every spare moment there is spent creating something.

“Oh, we have our own theatre here,” says Valentina. “an open air one!”

His life play continues even at the summer house, where the scenery of huge pine trees grows directly in the back yard. alexey plays several roles simulta-

neously: playwright, producer and, often, main performer. “Why have you started writing?” a neighbour once asked him. Dudarev answered that he likes creating his own worlds, where he feels good… sometimes, he comes on stage in his own plays. On his 50th birthday, he played Dobrynya in Polochanka. another role was the Colonel in his Don’t leave…

The small house that he built in the country very much reminds me of a fairy-tale hut, with a stork’s nest on the roof. From far away, the nest looks like a real one. storks have always embodied flight and creativity, of which alexey says, “This is a very beautiful bird, sacred, perhaps.” When storks circle in the sky and alexey follows them with his eyes, it’s as if he wakes up inside as a little boy, running down the hill to try and fly over Zaruby.

He recalls his childhood birthday at the age of ten, when his father invited half the village. He recently celebrated his 60th birthday, gathering around two hundred people to his party.

By Valentina zhdanovich

Proper open-air 'theatre' in the country

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Museum premiereNew exposition opened at Butrymowicz Palace in Pinsk

The exposition describes the previous owners of the historical building

— representatives of the noble families of the Butrymowiczs, skirmunts and Ordas, famous in Polesie. The exposition currently displays photos of the building in various epochs, as well as copies of drawings by prominent Napoleon Orda, the grandson of the palace’s first owner — Mateusz Butrymowicz. in future, the exposition is to be expanded.

The 18th century architectural monument — the Butrymowicz Palace — was opened in Pinsk after its restora-tion in 2009. The reconstruction of one of ancient Pinsk’s landmark buildings was conducted from 2007 using funds from the regional and town budgets.

The history of Polesie’s capital and the whole of Belarus is closely connected with this beautiful building. The Butrymowicz Palace is Pinsk’s first stone construction for civil purposes. The stone in its foundation

Art-style time Marc Chagall Museum in Vitebsk hosts first research conference for students

Participating in the conference were students, postgraduate students and

professors of the slavic studies institute of regensburg university (Germany).

The programme of the conference was developed taking into consideration the institute’s lectures on russian post-revolution history (1918-1920) and the creative activity of the Jewish artists who worked in Vitebsk in that period. The German students became familiar with the expositions of the Marc Chagall Museum and the Marc Chagall art-Centre. They also visited Vitebsk’s sights and attended several lectures on Marc Chagall’s activity as the director of Vitebsk art College. The foreign guests also learnt about the Vitebsk period of Marc Chagall’s creative activity.

according to the Marc Chagall Museum’s Director, lyudmila Khmel-nitskaya, the would-be slavic specialists and their lecturers were pleased with the programme. after visiting Vitebsk, many students decided to devote their course and diploma papers to Belarus. Moreover, regensburg university’s lecturers plan to organise similar research trips to Vitebsk in the future and establish co-operation with one of Vitebsk’s universities.

regensburg university is the research centre which co-ordinates the research of eastern europe and the former ussr countries in Bavaria. it was among the founders of the Bavarian academic Centre for Central, eastern and south-eastern europe. The university co-ordinates academic relations and organises academic exchange programmes for students and scientists of these countries.

Unexpected findings

Lithographs by 19th century English graphic artist and architect Joseph Nash on show at National Library

it’s been a real detective story, with employees of the library bringing me

artworks and asking me to determine the technique,” explains the Head of the National library’s Gallery and exhibition Department, Fiodor Yastreb. “in this way, we discovered Joseph Nash’s 42 lithographs in our collections — all in perfect condition. However, we failed to find out when and how they came to be in Minsk. The unexpected find has prompted us towards a new project; from now on, the traditional international art-line exhibition will showcase retro pieces in addition to contemporary works. Next time, we’re planning to display works by French masters from previous centuries, which are also kept at the National library.”

Beauty which is not affected by time

Over 60 wooden churches in Brest region aim for registration on UNESCO List

Br e s t r e g i o n a l e x e c u t i v e Committee’s Cultural Department

has proposed a range of cultural buildings located in the region for inclusion on the uNesCO World Heritage list. These comprise 62 churches in Polesie area, representing 17th-19th century wooden architec-ture. each is almost in its original state, not having needed much resto-ration or reconstruction, which would distort their image (a vital condition for inclusion on the uNesCO World Heritage list).

in late april, uNesCO representa-tives are to visit the Brest region to assess the sites.

was laid by the last Polish King stanisław august Poniatowski. in mid-19th century, artist and composer Napoleon Orda also lived here. On the eve of WWi the building was owned by the Catholic church and was used as the bishop’s residence. after Pinsk’s liberation from the Nazi invaders in July 1944 the palace housed a printing office. Then the building became Pinsk’s House of Pioneers for many years, then remained practically unoccupied in the early 1990s.

The beautiful building has preserved its status as a functional palace and, after the reconstruction, it houses the Palace of Weddings, with a part of the building being used as a museum.

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Turning the pages of musical legacymaEstro finBErg and musEs of nEsvizh rEvivE history of domEstiC musiCal art

The Muses of Nesvizh enlightening musical festival has celebrated its 15th anniversar y. The National Concert Orchestra of Belarus

and its unique leader Mi k hai l Finb erg have been pursuing a

noble goal, reviving long forgotten, and even unknown, pages of Belarusian musical heritage. They have promoted the names and works of talented composers from the past and modern age, both Belarus-born and those who lived or worked here at various times.

“No other country can boast such fruitful, large-scale and

s u c c e s s f u l

restoration of its musical heritage as our National Concert Orchestra has made possible. Over the past 15 years, our domestic musical landscape has been almost completely revived, from the 16th century onwards. it’s almost impos-sible to achieve this in a short period of time yet we have unlocked this magnifi-cent and beautiful musical layer, full of secrets. Maestro Finberg’s great utopia has arrived. it’s hard to imagine what Mr. Finberg’s expectations were 15 years ago, since nobody could have foreseen

the success of researchers’ investi-gations or how audiences would react towards newly discovered

pieces. Perhaps he has powerful intuition, so great is his love for the musical present and

future of his homeland. This is, of course, impos-

sible without a good under-

Wood wind players before the concert in

the Town HallBEl

TA


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standing of our musical past,” notes Prof. Olga Dadiemova, the perennial hostess of the National Concert Orchestra’s enlightening programmes — herself a doctor of arts.

The Muses of Nesvizh relies on the solid foundations of these 15 years, while each year brings scientific-practical conferences featuring the top Belarusian historians and musical and art experts. This year was no exception, with the book Musical Treasures of our Belarusian Land released on the eve of the jubilee event. Mr. Finberg explains, “it’s a f a c t u a l t e x t b o o k relating to the history of domest ic musica l culture. We won’t always be here but the book will continue working, conducting its essential

task of educating modern genera-tions. i’m afraid that we’ve lost

our roots and must return. i’m proud that we’ve managed

to raise a new genera-tion of Belarusian music fans over the past 15 years, centred

around Nesvizh. Those who were children at our first Muses of Nesvizh concerts now bring their own children to

our festival events.”i g o r M a k a r , t h e

C h a i r m a n o f N e s v i z h District executive Committee,

confirms that the holiday of arts enjoys great popularity in the town. everyone looks forward to it each year and it’s sometimes hard to find a ticket. With each new musical fest, ancient Nesvizh becomes more

beautiful, acquiring a european appear-

ance and creating more comfortable conditions for creativity and residence. in particular, guests and participants of this year’s festival were welcomed by the revamped Nesvizh leisure and Culture Centre.

This year’s Muses of Nesvizh continued its enlightening traditions, reviving historical pieces of domestic music.

The first day of the holiday hosted a premiere dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Piotr Podkovyrov, celebrated this year. The chamber ensembles of

the Honoured Band of the National Concert Orchestra of Belarus have been performing

works by this prominent Belarusian composer after

39 years of oblivion.Frédéric Chopin’s 200th anniver-

sary is being widely celebrated by the european community and Nesvizh was treated to a concert lasting almost two hours, presenting the eternal works of this outstanding Polish composer. The string orchestra, conducted by maestro Valery soroka, played Chopin’s famous mazurkas, waltzes and polonaises with brilliance. sincere exclamations of ‘Bravo!’ were in evidence. Nesvizh welcomed the genius composer, who was connected in his artistic ideas and life connections with many outstanding Belarus-born cultural figures, such as adam Mickiewicz, Napoleon Orda, anthony radziwiłł , Mieczysław Karłowicz and stanisław Moniuszko.

The two day musical festival included a Musical assembly bringing together fans of choral singing to hear wonderful soloists from the National Concert Orchestra of Belarus and popular song performers. The Muses of Nesvizh will gather again in the ancient town next year, perhaps at a new concert ground. according to Belarus’ First Deputy Culture Minister, Vladimir rylatko, a new stage is to be erected near the walls of Nesvizh Castle.

By Irina Sviridova

Wood wind players before the concert in

the Town Hall

invited for contestFrankfurt an der Oder begins preparations for jubilee Slavonic Bazaar Festival

The mayoral office in the German city has announced a competition

dedicated to the 20th international slavonic Bazaar in Vitebsk Festival. schoolchildren and students from Vitebsk are invited to create the best translation of a poem by poet and prose writer Heinrich von Kleist.

The Days of German Culture is to be organised at the international event in 2011 for the first time. remarkably, next year is the year of Heinrich von Kleist in europe. He was born in Frankfurt an der Oder and created his masterpieces in the late 18th-early 19th century. accordingly, the mayoral office of Vitebsk’s twin city has decided to promote the works of its prominent countryman alongside the development of co-operation in the fields of culture and education between our two cities.

senior pupils and students studying German are invited to take part, trans-lating the poem an die Konigin luise von Preussen into russian. The winner will win a trip to the international youth eurocamp in Frankfurt an der Oder, while memorial prizes will be given to the two runners up.

T h i s Ju ly, du r i ng t h e 1 9 t h international slavonic Bazaar in Vitebsk Festival, Vitebsk’s Contemporary art Centre and Vitebsk’s regional library are to organise exhibitions devoted to the life and creativity of the great German writer Heinrich von Kleist.

By Diana kubareva


Retro style thE third intErnational rally of lovErs of rarE, ClassiC Cars — BosCh rEtro-minsk 2010 — has EndEd

Ove r 6 0 ve h i c l e s , from 9 countries, t o o k p a r t , m o s t over 70 years of age and still able

to drive to Minsk independently. i was keen to see how these old cars were still running and what efforts it requires to keep time from turning these gorgeous retro treasures, worth tens of thousands of dollars, into piles of rust.

Pontiac Grand-Prix (1979) gather crowds. a contemporary Volga GaZ-24 only causes a grin. Why is this? There’s no clear definition as to what constitutes a ‘classic car’ although some believe it to be an expensive vehicle produced in limited quantities between 1925 and 1948. Others assert that any car manufactured more than 25 years ago qualifies. it’s clearly subjec-tive. in a couple of years, our old GaZ may be worth thousands of dollars…

“in the 1960s-1970s, the design of american cars changed every six months. it was fashionable to own a car which differed from your neighbour’s, so models were only produced in small volumes. Few remain in circulation today,” explains ruslan. “in contrast, Volga cars were produced for over two decades without change. The value of a model is not in its year of production but in its rarity.”

SMaLL DETaiLS MakE ThE DiFFErENcE

True lovers of retro-cars often use the word ‘unique’ and the smallest detail can raise the value of a car many times. For instance, the Volga-21 rises in value if a star is attached to its radiator; it’s a detail i’ve never noticed before. They only exist

on series one Volgas. Marshall Zhukov disliked the decoration on seeing it during a trial demonstration at the

Kremlin, so the designers had to quickly change it. it was removed

in 1958 but, by that time, 31,000 Volgas with a

star had already been manufac-tured. stories like this fuel the rarity value of such vehicles.

a car gains e v e n g r e a t e r attractiveness if it has been owned

by a celebrity. For

ExhiBitions rarities

Rare automobiles are of great interest

oLD agE DoES NoT aLWaYS BriNg joY

“i have a modern car in addition to my classic,” explains rally organiser ruslan Tsurko, indicating his Chevrolet Camaro Z28 (made in 1977) — unique for Belarus. “When i drive my ordinary car, it takes me a while to get used to people in the street not staring!”

The older the car, the more people show interest. Of course, only a few loren-Dietrichs are still running worldwide but even the Chevrolet Monte

C ar lo (1975) and

example, elvis Presley once drove a 1959 Cadillac eldorado while a 1964 Cadillac Fleetwood was favoured by ronald reagan. The GaZ-12 ZiM — manufac-tured in 1954 — was the first car owned by Yuri Gagarin. Museums and collectors may dream of exhibiting such a vehicle but some would say that true aficionados keep these treasures on the roads.

a 1957 Cadillac eldorado arrived at Minsk rally, driven from Finland; the crew had no doubt that they’d be able to return the same way. its number plate was black, as was that of two other cars at the rally; only those certified by a special commission in europe as having at least 98 percent original parts earn this honour. it denotes the vehicle as a true museum piece, allowing it to receive privileges from local road police. The Cadillac’s footboard is already rusty and its luxurious blue leather compart-ment is rather shabby but the fifty year old car is like a noble wine, having endured many years.

Modern restoration technologies and materials allow these cars to be fully restored. However, preserving authen-ticity is vital, since this is what really attracts collectors. enthusiasts devote time and money to their hobby, bringing complete wrecks back to life. it can take several years and it’s a labour of love to find components. You might have to source headlights from Germany, a carburettor from spain and a bumper from the usa. in fact, there is a whole industry servicing cars taken out of production. sometimes, owners have to travel far and wide in

search of a particular fender or a back axle. it’s becoming more of a challenge in Belarus; older cars — like Maybachs, Horchs and studebakers — are now mostly long exported.

in defiance of general opinion, it’s impossible to buy a car fit for restoration for $100. Those in satisfactory condition are worth several thousand Dollars; those

with 6-7-litre engines cost even more. However, we can all enjoy the beauty and elegance of these cars at exhibitions and rallies, which are organised regularly. What do lovers of retro-cars receive in turn — after spending so much money and time on their restoration? Only those who drive these ‘machines of their time’ can answer…

Back To ThE PaSTandris, from estonia, invites me

to go for a drive in his 1976 Ford lTD landau. its 7.5-litre engine gives great acceleration so i can understand why 350kg of bitumen is placed in the boot — otherwise, the car would fly up. sitting on the wide sofa of the front seat, i feel like a rock star. The image strengthens as we turn up the music via the loud speakers. if i turn my head, i wonder if i’ll see a van of groupies behind us. i can see the attraction. You forget all your problems while you’re driving these cars from the past. You can imagine yourself as a soviet party worker, a Chicago gangster or an english aristocrat. Moreover, these cars bring such joy to everyone who sees them. Who can put a price on that!

By Alexander Polosmakov

Modern restorAtion technologies And MAteriAls Allow these cArs to be fully restored. however, preserving Authenticity is vitAl, since this is whAt reAlly AttrActs collectors. enthusiAsts devote tiMe And Money to their hobby, bringing coMplete wrecks bAck to life

books ExhiBitionsE

Responsible mission requires preparationBelarus to become an honoured guest of Moscow’s International Book Fair in early September for the first time

For Belarus to be granted this status at Moscow’s fair

is a privileged and responsible position which requires much preparation. The country will fully demonstrate the products of its national publishing branch

and worthily show its culture, education and science.

Our organisational committee has already started preparing Belarus’ artistic and business programme, as well as its national stand (to occupy 300sq.m). The stand will display editions from Belarus’ largest state and private publishing houses, covering all themes. “The exact number of editions will be decided once the Belarusian representa-tives get acquainted with the book stand. Previously, 2,000-3,000 books were on show but the figure might increase this year,” says Deputy information Minister

igor laptenok, adding that the editions on show will also include winners of the Book art-2010 contest (to be announced on the Belarusian Written language Day) and laureates of the Cis Book art contest (soon the be declared).

From 2005-2009, Poland, France, China, ukraine and india were honoured guests at Moscow’s Book Fair.

By Tatiana Pastushenko


folklorE wEalth

also ‘Khoroshki’ — who specialise in choreography. each is still playing, with its own fans. ‘svyata’ occupied an open niche, as proven by Gennady Tsitovich’s words, many years ago: ‘i’ve tried many dishes but have never eaten anything like that’. initially, we drew our repertoire almost exclusively from eastern Polesie, just like ‘Pesnyary’. ‘svyata’ even used to go on the same expeditions with the unforgettable Vladimir Mulyavin. The difference was that Mulyavin later reworked the songs, while we performed them as originally heard. We even imitated the performance manners of elderly villagers, repeating their dialect peculi-arities. ‘svyata’ has been the first in the country to create a professional folk music ensemble, comprising classically trained musicians able to dissect songs into voices and instruments. There have been many amateur bands, but it isn’t easy to ‘cook’ folk music for stage perform-ance; you need to be able to sing, as well as play certain instruments — such as dudas, bagpipes, violins and lyres.

Scientists around the world admit the unique character of Belarusian songs. What gives them this uniqueness?

every song can be a real discovery. There was a case when we visited a village and found an elderly lady who agreed to sing for us. she began her song, singing into our tape recorder. We then went to the village shop to buy something to eat. When we returned, she was singing her fortieth couplet! she sang of everyday matters: life, work and love. it seems that there are no more such songs but also makes you wonder how long such songs have existed. it’s known that ancient Greek verses, such as ‘Odyssey’ and ‘iliad’, weren’t composed by Homer, just recited by him. The same has, no doubt, happened with many Belarusian songs; they seem to be a series of poetry tales about old times and traditions, passed by word of mouth. Our modern recording equipment allows these melodies and verses to be preserved for the future.

Where do people take their inspira-tion for creating songs?

It’s hard to believe but, just a quarter of a century ago, we lacked a group able to perform Belarusian folk songs in the original. some will recall Pesnyary, but they used to

rework folklore into modern art, and did it very elegantly, achieving public acclaim. However, in 1984, a group of like-minded people decided to tour our villages, listening to melodies sung by the ancient grandmas of each settlement, alongside their stories. They repeated them word for word on stage, creating authentic art without sacrificing anything to fashion. The band was named svyata —meaning

holiday, or saint, or beautiful, clear day. Their songs became popular and remain so today, despite the passing years. Many new bands are popularising folk art but why does it appeal to so many thousands of fans? svyata soloist, famous animator and humourist Vyacheslav statkevich, muses on the theme.

Vyacheslav, how is it that, before Svyata, nobody performed folk music authentically?

at the time of our formation, there were various folk groups: G. Tsitovich National academic Folk Choir, as well as ‘syabry’ and ‘Pesnyary’. There was

What about does ‘Svyata’ sing?not only lovE songs…

What about does ‘Svyata’ sing?not only lovE songs…


folklorE wEalth

let’s continue looking at the peculiar character of Belarusian folk art. earlier, there were no newspapers in villages, let alone radio or TV. even in towns, literate people could hardly afford to record anything. Paper was very expensive and books cost more than gold. information was passed by word of mouth. since the life of a village man depended on the soil, most songs were drawn from the agri-cultural calendar — telling of sowing, harvesting and natural phenomena, as well as pagan and Christian holidays relating to farming. They described everyday life. There were also days when it was prohibited to sing, religious days on which we were supposed to keep silent, as if waiting for nature to reveal itself. There are still many undiscovered, mystical Belarusian songs.

Is it true that most Belarusian songs are melancholic and sad? Why is that so?

Perhaps, there is some truth in it. Many melodies are slow and medi-tative, being about destiny and love. These are melancholic themes, since not everybody is lucky enough to catch their bluebird of happiness. What’s left … only to sing about pain. such songs provided an emotional release for unhappiness. if a girl was married to man she didn’t really love — as often happened not only in Belarus but elsewhere abroad — she couldn’t but share her sorrow. Her song was born as a cry of despair.

There should also have been reason for joy. I’m sure there are also joyful songs?

Firstly, the greatest happiness was the birth of a child. Mothers used to rock their children and this is how lullabies were born. also, there’s the rollicking polka, of which we have many! i must mention the genre of chastushka — which mocks the twists and turns of fate. Many folk songs have their roots in this form, like the well-known ‘lyavonikha’, made famous by ‘Pesnyary’. Chastushkas are a favourite genre of folk songs,

The soloist Vyacheslav Statkevich

remote from civilisation, allowing ancient songs and traditions to remain less distorted, compared to largely urbanised, compactly populated areas like my native Grodno region.

There are many Polish people living in the Grodno region. Obviously, your area has also been inhabited by Polish people. Have you thought of performing Polish songs popular in Belarus?

We do, but our Polish singers perform in Belarusian! i remember a local Polish man from my village of repnikovo pasturing his cattle and singing in the purest Belarusian: ‘Fog in the ravine, fog in the valley’. Most of our village residents who believe they are Polish speak Belarusian.

Speaking of folk songs, most are ‘collective’ works but must originate from a single author.

Of course, every song has an indi-vidual author, although their identity has long been lost or forgotten. Naturally, somebody was the first to create the lyrics, which have been passed down the generations, slightly transformed. i know 28 variants of the ballad ‘Oh, the Crane’, which is sung in different areas using various verses and melodies. Perhaps somebody didn’t like some of the words and changed them.

What’s in today’s Svyata repertoire?We keep travelling and gathering

folklore. at the same time, we also use new works by poets and composers. sooner or later, these wonderful songs will become part of our folklore as well. igor luchenok wrote the famous ‘Belarusian Polka’, performed by ‘syabry’, but does anyone ever think of who the composer is?

In your opinion, could a modern folk theme removed from rural life become part of our folk heritage… for instance, on the theme of space exploration?

Of course! Time passes and some folklore themes are replaced by others. We once used torches made of wood, which have now been replaced by electric lamps. Who would argue that it isn’t a positive change? Why shouldn’t we sing about it?

By Viktar korbut

being the simplest and most accessible. They provide satire.

You’ve mentioned that most of the songs you perform come from Eastern Polesie. Are there any songs in Svyata’s repertoire from other corners of the country?

i expected this question. in fact, most folk groups tend to draw inspira-tion from the Gomel region. We often ask ourselves: don’t they sing in other parts of Belarus? They do! But this trend towards Gomel region began a quarter of a century ago. a group of folklore collectors travelled to one of the villages to record songs and were told: ‘There are also nice songs in our neighbouring village’. The researchers followed the thread and ‘Pesnyary’ drew their inspi-ration largely from that corner. However, i come from the lida district, in the north-west of the country. a century ago, famous Polish folklore researcher Fedetsky used to record wonderful songs there, but then the ‘thread’ broke and nobody followed him…

They say songs in some regions are preserved better than in others. Perhaps, this is why nobody followed Fedetsky?

i can’t say that lida songs are less archaic that those from

Gomel, although Polesie certainly has a wealth of ancient art. The marshes and woods

of Polesie make it more


Talent helps to gain victoryyElEna duBrovskaya, aCtrEss with maxim gorky

national aCadEmiC drama thEatrE, wins intErnational soldiEr’s Ballad song ContEst

The young a c t r e s s a l r e a d y possesses

various awards from prestigious forums, including the Grand P r i x o f t h e 3 r d

international Zolotoy Vityaz Festival. However,

she’s never before won a voca l compet i-

tion of such high level. “Mir TV and radio Company,

which organis ed the event, invited me

to take part,” Yelena explains. “i agreed without

hesitation, as i love military songs and often use them in my creative repertoire. Moreover, vocal abilities weren’t the major criteria, since the contest judged

the composition. later, we learnt that the major

prize was a role in a film by famous director Dmitry astrakhan.”

Ms. Dubrovskaya was voted into the finals by the public at a special concert. she met her rivals — young actors from throughout the Cis — several days before the event and the major intrigue was that they remained unaware of what they’d be singing until the last moment. Ms. Dubrovskaya sang song of a Frontier Driver from the famous soviet film Turning Point.

Ms. Dubrovskaya performed the song so cheerfully that the jury awarded her 10 points. The greatest number of points was also received by the russian entrant, but the chairman of the jury, Honoured art Figure of russia, film director Dmitry astrakhan, preferred Ms. Dubrovskaya. “Her vocal abilities, charisma and artistry were unique, which was very important,” he noted.

Ms. Dubrovskaya is now busy rehearsing for a major role in russian Vaudevilles, soon to be staged by the Maxim Gorky National academic Drama Theatre, and is shooting russian and Belarusian films. The subject and title of Mr. astrakhan’s film are yet to be announced.

By Natalia Stepanovich

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BELARUS #6/2010

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Transcript of BELARUS #6/2010