Socio-political Weekly Published since February 2003 NO. 4 (722) Thursday, JANUary 25, 2018 WWW.SB.BY

Darya Domracheva is approaching the Olympic In excellent Games in great shape, as is confirmed by Belarusian biathlete’s mass start mood before victory at World Cup stage in Italian Antholz- PyeongChang Anterselva ➔ 11 Joining struggle for About elections to local deputy mandates councils, parliamentary

By Alexey Fedosov applying for the political cam- paign this year will be announced groups and observers Chair of the Central Elec- in due course. From a technical Lidia Yermoshina ex- ary 17th, candidates for local elections from abroad is forbid- tion Commission, Lidia point of view, the local elections pressed her point of view councils will have the opportu- den in our state. Yermoshina, claims elec- are a more complicated proce- about possible changes nity to distribute publicity ma- Do you think there are tions to local councils are dure; time is needed to collect during shift towards terial, these must be produced enough party deputies in our becoming more inclusive information from all the regions mixed election system in legally, i.e. using election funds Parliament? and less elitist and make up a general picture. the Parliament. However, and must contain the publisher’s Parties in our country are not “Previously, we registered The pre-election campaign the Chair of the Central details. The Central Election activated unless there is a pro- a very narrow circle of people, begins after registration and will Election Commission made Commission was asked whether portional (or semi-proportional) mostly connected with politics. last until February 17th (inclu- particular specifications it’s possible to prepare leaflets election system. Currently par- We also have some unexpected sive). On February 18th, local regarding some peculiari- and posters independently, us- ties don’t have their own interest applicants from the spheres of elections will be held, when over ties during nomination of ing one’s own money, and then in participation in elections. If we business and small entrepreneur- 18,000 mandates will be distrib- candidates into deputies to distribute them. The answer introduce voting by lists or using ship. As usual, the largest repre- uted among the campaign par- of local councils. is ‘no’, because a business act- a mixed election system, then sentation comes from the educa- ticipants. During the period to Febru- ing in accordance with an agree- party representation will auto- tion and culture, and about 25 ment automatically matically increase at all levels, percent from the social sector,” includes the neces- including in local councils. said Ms Yermoshina. sary information: When will we take such a There are also many young certificate of regis- step? people among the potential can- tration, the circula- In this case it will be neces- didates: in , one in 7 of tion of the printed sary to change the Constitution. FOCUS the applicants is below 30. Reg- leaflets, and this At present, everything is specu- istration of candidates for the information can lative and there are no concrete deputies’ positions has already always be checked. steps towards it. begun. Only Minsk has currently Otherwise, we can’t Do partners from the Euro- submitted its data to the Central be certain that these pean Union, who traditionally Election Commission; the high- leaflets have been take part in election observa- est competition is expected here: produced at the tion, show interest in the politi- with over 6 applicants per posi- candidate’s home cal life in our country? tion (1.5 times more than during and not brought in European structures show in- the previous campaign). from other coun- terest and I think it will increase The exact number of citizens Questions asked at Lidia Yermoshina tries, as financing of as the elections approach. Interesting Present your fingers programme prepared By Olga Korneeva

to cross the border A group of children from The biometric information is Syria have arrived in Bela- entered into the database of the rus for recuperation Arch interagency information- telecommunication system and the National System of Biom- etric Verification and Identifi- cation of Ukrainians, Foreign- ers and Stateless Persons of the State Migration Service of Ukraine. To learn more, we addressed representatives of the tourist industry for their comments on whether the innovation might It was announced during the affect tourism. The Director of meeting between the President EurAsiaTour JSC, Alla Davy- of and the Syrian So- denko, has been following the cial Affairs and Labour Minis- introduction of Ukraine biom- ter that the Syrian children will etric control from the outset. rest and recuperate at the Na- However, she isn’t yet ready tional Education and Recupera- to draw conclusions or make tion Centre Zubrenok, in line predictions. She comments, with the agreement reached in Biometric procedure takes a few minutes “Time will tell. We’ve received late August 2017. By Ruslan Proleskovsky Council of National Security risks’, hypothetically, our citi- no complaints from our clients The programme for the pro- and Defence last summer. The zens can fall under selective travelling to Ukraine. I think ject includes health-improving How is the new biometric innovation aims to exert control control. Nothing terrible will that, if biometric control doesn’t sports and cultural events. The control system working on over entry and exit of visitors, happen but Ukrainian border affect Belarusians, the flow of Syrian children will visit the the Ukrainian border? as well as their compliance with guards will take fingerprints tourists will remain steady. Eve- Naroch Lake area, the National The ticket offices at Gomel the rules of stay in the country. from the right hand. No ink is rything should be done correctly Art Museum of Belarus, the bus station are always busy, as “The mandatory registra- needed, as modern electronic and quickly at the border, with- National Academic Bolshoi those travelling to Ukraine need tion of biometric data is used scanners do without. out discomfort.” Opera and Ballet Theatre, The Minsk Times to present their passports as well in accordance with the Foreign The Acting Head of the Alina, a client of the travel Nemo dolphinarium, the Na- Thursday, as paying. You can’t purchase a Ministry’s list of seventy ‘risk’ Border Control Department of agency, travels a great deal, and tional Historical and Cultural January 25, ticket without an ID. Biomet- countries (including the Rus- Gomel’s Border Group, Vitaly has passed through biometric Museum-Reserve at Nesvizh 2018 ric controls are now launching, sian Federation),” explains the Yukhnevich, clarifies the situa- control several times, even hav- and Mir Castle. bringing change to the Ukrain- State Border Service of Ukraine. tion, telling us, “Ukrainian col- ing her iris scanned, for a UK During the visit to the Na- ian border. “Other foreigners are viewed leagues warned us about the visa. “These procedures don’t ir- nosy-Novoselie agro-tourist On January 1st, 2018, the from the point of view of risk innovation in advance. Our citi- ritate me,” she underlines. “I’m centre, as well as the Cultural biometric data fixing system analysis and assessment of re- zens can cross the border in both not ‘wanted’ by the authorities Heritage of Belarus excursion, came into force at international sults.” directions as before but need to and do nothing illegal. It’s good guests from Syria will get to crossing points on the state bor- Belarus is not on the list. pass through biometric control that my biometric data is taken, know the culture, traditions, der of Ukraine: the correspond- However, given the clause of on the Ukrainian side, which as you never know what can life, games and customs of the 2 ing decision was taken by the ‘analysis and assessment of takes a couple of minutes.” happen while staying abroad.” Belarusian nation. A very responsible mission By Vasily Kharitonov friend President el-Sisi and I dis- Belarus is a peace-loving European state and cussed it in Cairo a year ago,” un- “Our hearts are always open derlined Mr. Lukashenko. He re- F ocus to partners interested in the en- serves as a guarantor of security, noted Alexander marked that the two sides agreed hancement of good relations Lukashenko as he accepted credentials from to make serious progress in the and expansion of all-round co- implementation of joint manu- operation. Today Belarus is a ambassadors of foreign states facturing projects and boost bi- peaceful European state serving lateral trade, opening promising as a guarantor of security and a avenues in science and educa- platform for the regulation of tion. several conflicts in the region,” Mr. Lukashenko also reaf- noted the Head of State. “Belaru- firmed Belarus’ interest in the sian proposals regarding various deepening of all-round mutually models of integration, joint ac- beneficial co-operation with Ni- tions against modern challenges geria. The main objective today and threats have more and more is to give concrete impetus to the supporters among other states development of trade, economic and international organisations.” and humanitarian contacts. We The President described how hope that the activities of the the economy is always the foun- new ambassador of Nigeria will dation of stability, the guarantor lead to significant progress in our of sovereignty and independ- bilateral relations. ence of any country. Most of the He also stressed that Belarus important decisions adopted in values the level of mutual un- Belarus have been to stimulate derstanding with Cuba which is business initiatives and the activ- At the ceremony of presentation of credentials Belarus’ strong ally. “This is a re- ity of investors. Entrepreneurship was testimony to that. The two the development of political, interested in developing a cor- liable platform for the establish- and innovative activities are en- sides signed a comprehensive economic, tourism and other responding legal framework be- ment of ties with other countries couraged while clear-cut rules for agreement on socio-economic ties with Malta. “We hope to tween our countries and consider in Latin America. We continue business have been developed. co-operation to 2026, which will ensure sustainable positive dy- issues of mutual interest,” he said. to provide all-round assistance “Nuclear energy and bio- help the two countries reach a namics in trade,” remarked the According to the President, to Cuba and are doing our best technology are developing vigor- new level in bilateral relations. Head of State. Belarus can meet the demand to promote its political and eco- ously in Belarus. Unprecedented According to Mr. Lu- of the rapidly developing nomic interests in our region.” legal conditions for the IT indus- kashenko, Tajikistan has economy of Cambodia. The President spoke in posi- try have been created. Belarusian been and still is, a friendly REFERENCE “We propose to build up tive terms about the growth of doctors provide high-quality state and reliable partner Most of the important co-operation in the manu- Belarus’ bilateral trade with Co- services in neurosurgery, cardi- for Belarus. Joint pro- decisions adopted in facturing sector, agricul- lombia. He mentioned the de- ology, oncology, transplantation jects helped them reach a ture, education, science livery of Belarusian machines, and rehabilitation,” asserted Mr. brand-new level of trade, Belarus have been to and culture,” he said. Mr. chemical products, pharmaceuti- Lukashenko, saying that this humanitarian collabora- stimulate business Lukashenko explained cal products, optic and electronic opens up additional opportuni- tion is increasingly strong. initiatives and the how the country is a prom- devices, farm equipment and ties for the strengthening of ties The Belarusian leader ising partner of Belarus in passenger transport as promising with countries all over the world. stressed that relations with activity of investors Southeast Asia. However, avenues of co-operation. The President received cre- Georgia have stabilised in bilateral interaction can be “Our country is open to new dentials from the ambassadors recent times. “We are enthusias- Belarus is also ready to ex- described as having a wealth of ideas, projects and initiatives. of twelve states: Georgia, Egypt, tically liaising in various fields pand the entire range of relations unrealised opportunities. “It is I believe that, as ambassadors, Iceland, Kazakhstan, Cambo- and we already have the first with Croatia. “It is essential for important to create conditions you will make the maximum dia, Columbia, Cuba, Malaysia, successful examples of industrial the business circles of the two for joint economic initiatives, effort to add positive dynamics Malta, Nigeria, Tajikistan and co-operation. Five or seven years countries to join efforts to boost expansion of scientific, technical to political and trade-economic Croatia. ago we did not even know how bilateral trade and investment co- and humanitarian ties. Healthy contacts.” The President wished Mr. Lukashenko stressed that to build logistics in the trade with operation.” pragmatism and mutual benefits successes to the ambassadors in the relations between Belarus and Georgia. Today we can and will Mr. Lukashenko said that Be- should always serve as the foun- fulfilling their responsible mis- Kazakhstan have a strategic char- do it,” noted Mr. Lukashenko, larus will continue paying atten- dation of our partnership in the sions. “Let your stay in Belarus acter and rely on mutual trust and adding that a top-level visit to tion to collaboration with Iceland. long run,” the President believes. become an impressive and use- openness. The recent visit of the Georgia is planned for 2018. “We deem it necessary to balance “The relations between Be- ful point in your life. Welcome Kazakhstan President to Belarus Belarus is interested in out our trade turnover. We’re larus and Egypt are special. My to Belarus!” Apparent effect from optimisation By Alexander Pimenov ing to the Foreign Ministry’s in- concerned, Mr. Makei said that foreign trade but emphasised that formation, the EU states and oth- the central staff has been signifi- we mustn’t rest on our laurels, Foreign Ministry’s central er countries account for around a cantly downsized but this won’t since positive changes can also be staff reduced by almost a third of foreign sales while slight- reduce the efficiency of its activ- due to the change in the markets third ly fewer than 50 percent goes to ity in any way. for the better. Therefore, Mr. Lu- had the EAEU states. “On the contrary, the struc- kashenko pointed to the necessity a working meeting with Foreign After the working meeting ture of our central staff is geared of analysing all aspects of foreign Minister Vladimir Makei, tack- with the President, Mr. Makei towards effectively handling the economic activity. ling optimisation of the Foreign described their conversation in tasks given by the Head of State. Mr. Makei explained that the Ministry’s structure. The second detail. A similar approach is used re- important task of diversifying issue concerned problems of for- “The President was informed garding diplomatic institutions foreign trade remains and much eign economic activity, its results of the results of the Foreign Min- Vladimir Makei abroad. “We’ll have to optimise needs to be done. The Minister and prospects for export diversi- istry’s work in the previous year. larus in 2018,” noted Mr. Makei. their work this year, and a num- noted that out of 58 countries fication and the role of embassies We agreed conceptual approach- Among such events (at which ber of diplomatic institutions will where Belarus has its foreign rep- in this process. The third matter es for our foreign political and we expect a high level of foreign be reduced. However, close atten- resentations, only nine registered The Minsk Times tackled the fulfilment of instruc- economic activity. We have also representation) Mr. Makei men- tion will be paid to the countries, a fall in exports. “Nevertheless, Thursday, tions previously given to the For- agreed approaches towards the tioned the OSCE-wide Counter- where interaction produces great we’re committed to analysing the January 25, eign Ministry. development of our relations with Terrorism Conference, the con- results,” he said. According to Mr. situation comprehensively,” as- 2018 Mr. Makei reported that a the EU: the President was report- duct of the session of the Makei, in total, the Foreign Min- serted Mr. Makei. “In February positive tendency has been seen ed to about the current situation Security Conference and opening istry’s central staff was reduced we’ll have a final session of the in foreign trade and exports have and about particular problematic of the memorial of Trostenets at by roughly one third and the num- Foreign Ministry, inviting rep- grown by approximately 23 per- issues. Moreover, he was also told which we expect the presence of ber of employees of diplomatic resentatives of other ministries cent. This increase was ensured about the schedule of his visits heads of a range of foreign coun- institutions will fall by around 15 and exporting enterprises. We’ll by the growth in prices (up two for this year and informed about tries. percent. assess the work of each foreign thirds) and the physical increase important international events, As far as optimisation of the During the report, the Presi- institution, and each official and in exports (by one third). Accord- which are to be conducted in Be- Foreign Ministry’s structure is dent noted positive tendencies in set the tasks for the future.” 3 One shop Additional profit lies soon to be followed by a whole in oil refining depth chain Belarusian By Oleg Bogomazov Belarusian products shop oil refining opens in Chinese city of Chongqing industry The shop, named Valosha, sells Belarusian products in de- prepares mand in China: milk, cheese, meat, vegetable oil, flour, choc- to work olate and alcoholic drinks. Be- larus and Chongqing have been as Russia co-operating since 2011, when the two countries were linked decreases by the Chongqing-Xinjiang- Europe railway which opened oil export up new opportunities for boosting economic and trade contacts. In 2016, the Minsk duties Region and Chongqing signed By Vladimir Khromov a twinning agreement envisag- ing the development of trade, The Deputy Chairman of economic and humanitarian co- Belneftekhim Concern — An- operation. drey Rybakov — noted that the The Valosha brand was Belarusian oil refining industry founded by Olga Zelkovskaya, has been operating for several a graduate of Minsk State Lin- years under tax conditions de- At one of Belneftekhim Concern’s productions guistic University, who also has cided by Russia. As a result, the oil products — refineries pay will equal global costs — in ing efficiency of refineries un- a Master’s Degree from Peking cost of oil for Belarus is grow- a tax duty, accordingly, condi- line with the applicable for- der the market prices, Naftan University (Philosophy Depart- ECONOMY ing and is gradually approach- tions for privileged oil prices mula for determining oil prices and Mozyr oil processing facili- ment). She has been living in ing the world price. In 2017, for are levelled. In this way, refin- for Belarus. The terms of such ties are undergoing modernisa- China for over seven years and example, the cost of a tonne of ery costs become comparable abolishment have not yet been tion, increasing the depth of plans to keep expanding the Russian oil (delivered to Bela- with the purchase of raw mate- determined by the Russian side. oil refining and obtaining new Valosha network in the country. rusian refineries) stood at about rials at the world price. “However, we are actively pre- products that will enable them The second shop is expected to 80 percent of its world amount. If Russia abolishes duties, paring for the expected chang- to gain additional profit and re- open in Chengdu, the admin- At the same time, Mr. Rybakov the cost of Russian oil will es,” Mr. Rybakov noted. main competitive in the world istrative centre of the Sichuan noted that — when exporting grow by the same amount and It is with the goal of increas- market. Province. Support received to explore new areas — which he assembled him- self — to the President, at the Exhibition of Achievements of Children and Youth Movement Leadership Landmarks — For- mula of Success. He decided to continue work on the project and was recently invited to the Learn to become ONT Channel’s project — My Business — to present his idea of establishing batch production true professional of Belarusian 3D printers. Receiving support from By Alexey Fedosov , Singapore and other the Zubr Capital company, the countries in joint projects for vo- young man decided to look Belarus to train technical cational education. at the matter from the other specialists for India “Belarus will become an- side and develop a 3D printer- Belarus will shortly welcome other partner of India in 2018. construction kit for teenag- 50 people from India to gain a This is because Belarus and India ers. “Such a product has many technical education in different have achieved the goals set by the advantages,” he explains. “A fields — including automobile Belarusian President following a printer-construction kit is an manufacturing and mechatron- visit of the Belarusian delega- By Olga Korneeva appliances, giving second life exciting pastime for parents ics in modern production man- tion to India in September 2017. to their parts, producing chips, and teens. In addition, you get agement. The programmes will The two countries have put into Minsk schoolboy Danila power supplies, and so on. “I a fully-fledged device able to last from three to ten weeks and practice the Belarus-India mem- The Minsk Times Yeliseev decided to es- once saw a 3D printer at my fa- print 3D models. I’ve tried to comprise a fee-based education orandum of understanding on Thursday, tablish batch production ther’s work, but its price struck make a high-quality machine. at colleges of the Republican co-operation in vocational edu- January 25, of inexpensive and high- me as high at $2,000. I then Printers of the same size and Institute of Vocational Educa- cation and training signed during 2018 quality 3D printers for thought of assembling such a cost — which are available on tion. The Indian students are also that visit,” commented the Indian start-ups and schools and, device myself,” he remembers. the market now — would not expected to learn more about the Embassy in Minsk. after graduating from the He surfed the Internet for be able to print so accurately operation of Belarusian resource As a follow-up, a Belarusian Business School for Teenag- instructions and assembly tips, and efficiently. We can compete centres and enterprises. Vocational Education Centre is ers, he is closer to success also studying the most inter- with them in terms of pricing, Belarus is taking part in the planned for India. This will be than ever before esting ideas. As a result, he while offering better quality. ‘Skill India’ programme, initi- discussed in detail during the vis- The young man began work- combined them to make the Importantly, the areas of start- ated by the Indian Prime Min- it of India’s Skill Development ing with radio electronics at the best solution. Last May, Danila ups, schools and universities are ister, Narendra Modi. India cur- and Entrepreneurship Minister, 4 age of six — sorting broken demonstrated the 3D printer not yet fully explored.” rently co-operates with the UK, Anant Kumar Hegde, to Belarus. ECONOMY

With hope and confidence in our own power supply From 2018, Belarus hopes to stop importing electricity from Russia

By Vladimir Mikhailov operation: Polotsk and Vitebsk. In ad- Pure mathematics Dollars,” said Mr. Potupchik. dition, one of the oldest power stations A decrease in the cost price is a direct Belenergo’s General Director — No politics in Belarus — Gomel — was fully re- way to preserve low prices on electricity Yevgeny Voronov — stressed that the de- Some experts have greeted the news conditioned. These measures made it and heat energy for the population. Tar- cision to stop the import of electricity is not from Minsk with bewilderment. How- possible to cut the costs of electricity iffs in Belarus are almost the same as in unexpected and the Russian Inter RAO has ever, the indications are that it’s more production. The Deputy Prime Min- Russia. At the same time, as the been aware of it. “We enjoy close relations profitable for us to produce and consume ister, Vladimir Energy Minister explained, gas with our partners. However, economic ex- our own electricity than to buy it from pric- es- for Belarusian pediency means we’ve decided not to buy Russia. Energy Minister Vladimir Po- power en- electricity for the time being. We have a tupchik emphasised that there is no po- gineering is flexible relationship and we can buy elec- litical agenda behind the move. “Russia almost twice as tricity or sell it as required,” he added. has been, and remains, the main strategic high as that of The construction of Belarus’ own nu- partner for Belarus. The decision to move clear power plant in Ostrovets is in full away from importing electricity is purely swing. Mr. Semashko assured parliamen- economic. Belarus has been approaching tarians that all financial issues with the this point for a long time, gradually cut- project have been resolved, saying, “A ting its supplies from abroad and mod- their Russian Russian credit line of $10bn is in force, ernising its energy system.” colleagues. The on favourable terms for Belarus. This sum New facilities are being launched cost of thermal covers 90 percent of the costs of construc- in the country almost every year. Be- Se- energy is three times tion and installation works needed for the larus is continuously modernising its mashko, shared lower than in Russia. station. By late 2019, we will launch the existing power plants, also developing the figures at the joint “We have calculated that it would first phase of the Belarusian nuclear power energy from local fuels. Renewable session of the Belarusian Parliament, be more profitable for the country to en- plant and the second will be put into op- energy sources are being increased, “In 2017, electricity generation con- sure its own generation of electricity from eration in 2020. Commissioning of this fa- using wind, sun and water. In 2017, sumed 230 grams of standard fuel per its own sources. As a result, in 2018, we cility will enable Belarus to avoid energy Belarus’ two most powerful hydro- kilowatt / hour. In comparison, in Rus- will reduce the burden on the foreign ex- dependence and release about 5.5 billion electric power stations were put into sia, the figure is a third higher.” change market by three hundred million cubic metres of natural gas.” Expert opinion Inter-fuel competition expected The leading analyst at the Centre for National Energy Security — Igor Yushkov — considers how Belarus can technically increase its energy balance and how the energy market will change after the launch of the Belarusian nuclear power station: The two countries have failed to agree on price. Throughout the year, there will be repeated rounds of negotiations at the level of individual companies. It is likely that the purchase of electricity from Russia will eventually resume, at least until the Belarusian nuclear station is put into operation. According to the initial plans, the first reactor will service the domestic market and the second will work for foreign customers. The refusal of Belarus to import will affect certain Russian power stations which may suffer losses. This is not critical since their main market is internal. They’ll simply get less profit. The Minsk Times When Belarus launches its nuclear power plant in Ostrovets in 2019-2020, our two countries will not compete as exporters. Russia is not Thursday, present on a grand scale in the markets where the Belarusian plant plans to sell; these are the states to the west of Belarus. No conflict January 25, is expected in this respect. There may however, be other difficulties. Belarus is planning to sell electricity to those countries where Russia 2018 sells gas. As a result, inter-fuel competition might arise — not only in foreign markets but also in Belarus. At the recent Eurasian Economic Congress, we explained how our plant will replace gas generation to the volume of 4.5bn cubic metres which is currently bought from Gazprom. This is a great loss for the Russian corporation. If Poland, Germany and other countries also reduce purchases, Russia and Belarus will compete. However, I do not think this will generate any conflict. The Ostrovets project is not something new; Russia is helping to construct it and provides the loans. Generally speaking, everyone is accustomed to the idea of it. 5 This January, the General Secretary of the regarding illegals and hostile attitude towards United Nations Organisation, António Guterres, migrants is to ensure legal ways of migration. presented the Making Migration Work for All Even though the migration situation in Belarus Report. The UN Head focused on the positive remains calm and controllable, according to the aspects of migration which, according to him, Citizenship and Migration Department of the stimulates economic growth, facilitates Interior Ministry, in 2017 alone, more than four the reduction inequality and strengthens million foreign citizens arrived in the country. ties between various communities. That’s why it’s important to develop partnership Moreover, migration helps solve relations in the struggle against illegal migration problems connected with the reduction with neighbouring states and international and ageing of the population. organisations while also preparing a national António Guterres reminded the audience migration policy for Belarus. that, since 2000, the number of migrants Evidently, in solving migration problems it’s has almost doubled and currently stands at vital to consider the experience of such world 256 million. Most of them have legally moved structures as the United Nations Organisation and to other countries. According to the UN General the UN General Secretary’s report is dedicated to Secretary, the best way to ‘cure the stigma’ this end.. Towards a new global compact on migration economic self-harm and can unintentionally encourage il- legal migration. Aspiring migrants who are denied legal pathways to trav- el will fall back on irregular methods that may put them in danger and undermine govern- ments’ authority. The best way to end ille- gality and abuse is for govern- ments to put in place more le- gal migration pathways. States also need to work together more closely to share the ben- efits of migration, for example through partnering to identify skills gaps in one country that can be filled by migrants from another. Thirdly, we need greater international cooperation to protect vulnerable migrants, as well as refugees, and we must re-establish the integrity of the refugee protection regime in line with international law. Migration powers econom- The death of thousands ic growth, reduces inequalities of people attempting to cross and connects diverse societies. seas and deserts is not just a The majority of migrants live human tragedy. Unregulated and work legally, but migration mass movements in desperate is also a source of political ten- circumstances fuel a sense that sion and human tragedy, as a borders are under threat and

BELARUS BELARUS WORLD & desperate minority risk their governments are not in control. lives in the face of discrimina- This leads in turn to dra- tion and abuse. conian border controls which Demographic pressures and undermine our collective val- the impact of climate change ues and help perpetuate the are likely to drive further mi- tragedies. gration in the years ahead. We need urgent action for The global community has a those trapped in transit camps choice. Do we want migration or facing abuse, whether in to be a source of prosperity and South America or North Af- international solidarity? Or do rica. We must envisage ambi- we want it to be a byword for tious action to resettle people inhumanity and social friction? with nowhere to go. This year, governments We should also take steps will negotiate the first-ever — through development aid, overarching international recent video of migrants be- Migrants make huge con- all development aid. climate change mitigation and agreement on migration — the ing sold as slaves is evidence tributions to both their host The fundamental challenge conflict prevention — to avoid The Minsk Times Global Compact on Migration of what happens when large- countries and countries of ori- is to maximise the benefits of unregulated large movements Thursday, — through the United Nations. scale migration is not managed gin. They take jobs that local migration while stamping out of people. Migration should January 25, This will not be a formal effectively. workforces cannot fill. Many the abuses that make life hell not mean suffering. 2018 treaty; nor will it place any How can we prevent and are innovators and entrepre- for a minority of migrants. It is within our power to binding obligations on states. end these injustices? neurs. Nearly half of all mi- Secondly, states need to achieve a world in which we Instead, it is an unprece- Our thinking should be grants are women, looking for strengthen the rule of law un- can celebrate migration and dented opportunity for leaders guided by three fundamental better lives and work opportu- derpinning how they manage its positive contribution. This to counter the pernicious myths considerations. nities. and protect migrants. year can be a milestone on the surrounding migrants, and lay First: we must recognise Migrants also contribute Authorities that erect ma- road to making migration truly out a common vision of how to and reinforce the benefits of income to their countries of jor obstacles to migration — work for all. make migration work for all. migration, so often lost in pub- origin that totalled nearly $600 or restrict migrants’ work op- António Guterres, Secretary-General of the 6 This is an urgent task. The lic debate. billion last year — three times portunities — inflict needless United Nations INSIDE

Digitising is truly important Belarus could become a platform for beneficial co-operation between European states in the IT industry By Oleg Bogomazov development to 2022 is ready, aiming to ensure full coverage of all citizens with This idea has recently been voiced at high-quality, equitable and safe medi- a session of the Parliamentary Assem- cal assistance, regardless of their place bly of the Central European Initiative of residence. The World Bank has allo- in Minsk. According to the independent cated Br 72m for this purpose.” consulting company BDRC Continen- Another ongoing project — E- tal data, Belarus is now among the top School — envisages the further devel- countries with the cheapest Internet — opment and implementation of online- occupying 7th position in global rank- solutions for the provision of diverse ings. The country is unrivalled in the innovative services, such as an elec- CIS regarding the development of in- tronic journal, a diary, a schedule and formation and communication technol- so on. Mr. Popkov adds that by 2020, E-School envisages new opportunities of modern education ogies (Belarus is 32nd globally among the project is likely to involve at least 80 Minister, cyber-attacks on commercial nications and Informatisation Ministry 175 countries on this indicator). percent of Belarusian schools. organisations and the banking sphere has united efforts with other structures The Minister of Communications Furthermore, there are some aspects (with the aim of stealing money) are a empowered to control Belarus’ infor- and Informatisation — Sergey Popkov which need additional consideration. very serious issue. However, experts are mation security to take all possible — believes the country will demon- The development of information and ready to respond to all emerging risks, measures to avoid external influence strate even greater results in the coming digital technologies has advantages and including hackers’ interference in vari- during such political campaigns,” said years. “The concept of Belarus e-health serious challenges. According to the ous political campaigns. “The Commu- Mr. Popkov. Come on, cheerful super-grandmas! By Inna Kabysheva its launch, it’s had several lead- photos this year and I’ve posted ers and is currently headed by many of them.” Though they may be grand- Nina Kuzmitskaya. She’s a true Sadly, most of us view old age mothers, there is nothing powerhouse: a super-grandma as a hard time of life. Society is full ‘elderly’ about these wise offering the perfect example to of compassion for the elderly, pro- and elegant women, who her friends. She’s always busy, moting the idea that they’re poor often call each other ‘girls’. having raised two sons and now and unfortunate and only spend Cheerful and energetic, helping with her grandchildren. time in the garden or in front of they can find their way out She’s been married for forty the television. Members of the of any situation. They’re years and her husband is a great Visiting Grandmas club would The Minsk Times living evidence that old age help to her, in all her pursuits. disagree. They don’t sit watching Thursday, doesn’t have to mean apathy Mrs. Kuzmitskaya loves bead soap operas, preferring to study January 25, and creaky joints! Most have weaving; and has won various English or ballroom dancing, to 2018 their own remedies to keep competitions for her talent. take gymnastics and yoga, and them feeling well, which Timidly touching her beau- to try Indian dancing and courses don’t come from the phar- tiful hand-made necklace, Mrs. Visiting Grandmas club in cosmetics. Anyone can attend macy. The Visiting Grandmas Kuzmitskaya shares the secret of time but it doesn’t hamper my again. Not long ago, my children the Centre of Social Services (in Minsk club now has over five her youth. “I’ve never lost heart. enjoyment of life. Recently, I presented me with a computer. Minsk’s Oktyabrsky District). All hundred members. The club is a breath of fresh air, had an operation on my feet but I’ve completed some courses and classes are given by the elderly, Not long ago, the club cel- which I lacked for many years. I the first thing I asked the doctor now run the club’s page on social aged 65, 70 or, even, 75. These ebrated its 20th birthday; since suffered from asthma for a long was when I’d be able to dance networks: we’ve taken 1,500 grandmas are truly cool! 7 Macron says UK must pay for post-Brexit Сity deal The French President used his first visit to Britain since being elected to warn the UK over EU exit negotiations Emmanuel Macron has warned Theresa May the UK will have to pay into the EU’s coffers in order to secure a Brexit trade deal on financial services. Speaking alongside the Prime Minister, the French President insisted he was ‘here neither to punish nor reward’ over Brexit. Mauritius on high alert ahead

WORLD of cyclone Berguitta Philippine authorities Mauritius is bracing itself for the arrival of a tropical cyclone that is headed its way raise alert level to four Strong winds which could produce gusts of up to 120km per hour are already being felt The Philippines’ most active volcano has exploded from category 3 Cyclone Ber- guitta. Thousands of residents thunderously, sending a huge grey column of lava have flocked to government storm shelters as the island fragments, ash and steam into the sky and prompting raised its alert. Pravind Ruggoo from the National Disaster Risk authorities to warn that a violent eruption may be imminent Reduction and Management The noon explosion sent Authorities raised the alert or pyroclastic density currents acting up more than a week ago. Centre, said, “The population superheated lava, molten rocks level to four on a scale of five, may cascade down in all direc- Mayon is in coconut-grow- should not go into risky ar- and steam cascading down which means an explosive erup- tions,” said Solidum, warning ing Albay province, about 210 eas, areas where there are land- Mount Mayon’s slopes and tion is possible within hours or villagers and tourists not to ven- miles south-east of Manila. slides, accumulations of water shrouded nearby villages in days. A danger zone around ture into the no-go zones and With its near-perfect cone, it and also areas that are prone to darkness, said Renato Solidum Mayon was expanded to five planes to stay safely away from is popular with climbers and flooding.” of the Philippine Institute of miles (8km) from the crater. the crater and ash-laden winds. tourists but has erupted about Seismology and Volcanology “If the eruption is vertical, More than 27,000 villagers 50 times in the last 500 years, Emirates and other officials. it is possible pyroclastic flows have fled since Mayon started sometimes violently. saves the giant Airbus A380 Bomb in Thailand’s airliner with province kills 3 and a 13 billion Euro order wounds at least 18 Emirates has confirmed it will buy twenty A380 of the explosion planes from Airbus with caused 3 people to an option to order another lose their lives,” sixteen said ISOC spokes- One of the largest airlines in man Pramote Prom- the world has saved the largest in. No group has Maya secrets in airliner in the world from going claimed responsibil- out of production. Emirates has ity for the attack. confirmed it will buy twenty Thailand’s the world’s largest A380 planes from Airbus with southern regions of an option to order another six- Narathiwat, Pattani, teen. The deal is worth 13 bil- and Yala have a his- underwater cave lion Euros and the first planes tory of long-running A group of divers have 347-kilometre cave was identi- will be delivered in 2020. insurgencies by the connected two underwater fied after months of exploring a Emirates already has over The Minsk Times ethnic Malay Mus- caverns in eastern Mexico maze of underwater channels. a hundred A380s in its fleet. Thursday, A bomb has gone off in lim population who want au- to reveal what is believed The Yucatan peninsula of Airbus had said it might have January 25, a market in Thailand’s tonomy. to be the biggest flooded Mexico is studded with monu- to stop manufacturing the A380 2018 southern Yala Province on Analysts who monitor the cave on the planet, a mental relics of the Maya peo- if no new orders were made. Monday, killing 3 people conflict say the attacks fell to discovery that could help ple, whose cities drew upon an The plane can carry over 500 and injuring 18, said a a historic low in 2017 despite shed new light on the an- extensive network of sinkholes hundred passengers and many spokesman for the Internal talks between the Thai govern- cient Maya civilisation linked to subterranean waters airports around the world have Security Operations Com- ment and rebel groups stalling. The Gran Acuifero Maya known as cenotes. had to adapt their runways for mand (ISOC) Resistance to Buddhist rule (GAM), a project dedicated to It gives us enormous and it to land. “The criminals put a bomb in the predominantly Muslim the study and preservation of wonderful perspective in un- in a motorcycle and placed it provinces resurfaced violently the subterranean waters of the derstanding the leaders of an- Materials prepared with aid 8 next to a market cart. The force in 2004. Yucatan peninsula, said the cient settlements. of information agencies Nostalgia for winter, or seven winter landscapes CULTURE by a single author Abram Krol — a pupil of Lev Leitman and Fiodor Fogt — entered the Vitebsk Art College at the age of 15; he studied there until moving to Minsk in 1932. After graduation, Abram joined the category of ‘exemplary painters of Socialistic Realism’. It’s hardly possible to imagine now but, at the age of 19 when he was sent to Belizdat to work, the young artist was charged with decorating the exhibitions of the Revolution Museum, the House of the First RSDRP Congress and the Labour Museum. In the

1930s, he decorated columns for revolutionary holidays and sports parades. A. Krol, self-portrait By Veniamin Mikheev sessions. “It was always great for him to paint in winter: when During WWII, the painter nature is quiet, forms and lines was drafted into the army and are clear and generalised, and reached Berlin as a cartoonist when only delicate tone nuances and photo-journalist for a front- signify the breath of life,” says a line newspaper (he used his Leica researcher of his work — Oleg camera). He received two mili- Sursky. tary medals: ‘For Courage’ and Abram Krol’s winter land- ‘For Military Merit’. In memory scapes contain all the signs of of his family who died in the the commonly prevailing ‘severe Minsk ghetto, Abram Krol cre- style’, with monumentality and ated a series of works dedicated restraint of the colour range. He to the ghetto and presented them always had a storyline: running to Israeli museums in the skiers or sports 1990s. Since the 1940s, competitions. Mr. Krol has worked as Mr. Krol also the Head Artist of the painted monumen- Museum of the Great tal epic landscapes Patriotic War in Minsk, — being inspired authoring its first exhibi- by works of prom- tion. In the 1970s, he was inent landscape the Deputy Director for painters such as Artistry. Sergey Gerasimov, Mr. Krol’s creative Vitaly Tsvirko and biography contains many Georgy Nissky. He paintings on the theme of also created a se- Abram Krol’s 64 war, as well as paintings paintings on show at the ries of landscapes with his own on historical and revo- National Art Museum unique style; among them are lutionary topic commis- the lyrical Rime, White Silence, sioned. Meanwhile, his best and multi-figured pictures confident- tal painter. Mr. Krol preferred pears in its festive version — with Morning, Belarusian Space, truly timeless works were paint- ly, to build the composition and winter landscapes to summer sunny days and sparkling frosty Highway, New Minsk — all ed not to order but guided by his space of his pictures. views and felt the tonality of trees, and as a routine urban envi- painted in the 1960s. Almost soul, in the peaceful 1960s. In landscape painting, the Belarusian winters — with their ronment — with snowdrifts and all of them feature the infinity The artist enjoyed remark- artist found peace and harmony, grey days, gloomy sky and heavy thaws, as ordinary townspeople of space, the motive of roads or able abilities for thematic paint- drawing inspiration from the na- snowdrifts. He remembered the see it. highways, endless white fields ing. His education — four years ture of his native places. He could lesson of his teacher Lev Leitman It’s physically challenging to and village houses drowning in at the Vitebsk Art College and also show himself not only as a who used to say, “The core of our work in winter but, as Mr. Krol’s the snow. This is how Abram two-year retraining courses in soulful lyric poet and promoter of work is the ability to see.” contemporaries recollect, the art- Krol portrayed his homeland Minsk — enabled him to paint nature but also as an experimen- The artist’s winter ap- ist loved long-distance open-air which he so dearly loved. Founder of new style for Neman glassware By Alexander Pimenov from the Leningrad Higher Art In 1979, the artist received the and Industrial School named gold medal at the International The National Art Museum after V. Mukhina (where he Triennial of Glass and Por- presents an exhibition of was taught by the famous artist celain in Czech Jablonec nad glassware by Honoured Boris Smirnov). The same year, Nisou. In 1990, his decorative Figure of Arts — Vladimir was ‘Wanderers: Peace for Those Vladimir employed Coming’ composition won a Works by V. Murakhver in museum exposition Murakh- at the Ne- silver medal from the USSR production and also created studio of fine arts opened in ver — as man Glass Academy of Arts. unique exhibition pieces. Each Berezovka on his initiative part of its Factory, in The range of Mr. Murakh- of his works is a study of glass, and under his leadership; its The Minsk Times permanent Berezovka ver’s creativity is wide. He was telling a story, exploring nature pupils constantly participated Thursday, exhibition of in the Grodno among the founders of a new and allowing the viewer to dis- in republican exhibitions of January 25, contemporary Region’s Lida style of Neman glassware — cover its secrets. children’s creativity. The artist 2018 Belarusian art District. From the Belarusian art glass of the In addition to glass, Mr. always amazed his followers Vladimir Mura- 1963 to 1975, he late 20th-early 21st century. Murakhver was actively en- with his inexhaustible vitality khver was born in the worked as the chief The artist has an unparalleled gaged in painting and graph- in both his creative and daily small town of Ananiev, artist of the USSR- passion for the material. He ics. As a talented master, he life. in the Odessa Region. He wide known enterprise. possesses unique professional managed to produce many new Mr. Murakhver’s works are received his initial art education Many of his works were and artistic skills. Mr. Mura- ideas and significant pieces in now kept at many Belarusian at Tashkent’s Republican Art awarded medals and diplomas khver has been the creator of these artistic spheres. museums, as well as in private College and, in 1959, graduated from the USSR and Belarus. many samples for industrial In 1969, the children’s collections abroad. 9 Tourists are invited to the cinema Unusual tourist route

developed in Grodno Scenes for almost two dozen films shot in the most cinematic street tures film footage and annotations in Russian, Belarusian and English. Another point is found at the inter- section of Ozheshko and Sovetskaya streets. It’s impossible to simply walk past this place. Lovers often meet by the sculpture of Cupid, while newly-wed couples traditionally uncork champagne bottles here. Scenes from the Traces of Apostles series are seen in the bank’s window; many city residents also par- ticipated in the crowd scenes for the film. The First Deputy Head for Ideolo- gy, Culture and Youth Affairs — Yelena CULTURE Klimovich — shares their plans, “We will try to create an atmosphere to help locals and foreigners to feel they are in the city where these famous films were shot. We’ve recently toured the city with experts to decide the places that should be included on the tourist route. We plan to complete the work by the Festival of National Cultures. For example, a bench with a photo area will be arranged near Bolshaya Troitskaya Street. In Telman Street, footage for several films was Beautiful Grodno today shot and a large vertical information By Tatiana Kondratieva point will appear here. The most cinematographic street — Urit- Grodno is the centre of a newly de- sky, will have a large billboard veloping tourist route. It will include placed on the wall of the his- landmark places familiar not only to torical-cultural building. In the older residents of the area. Around fifty centre of Sovetskaya Street, the movies have been shot here at different windows of the Lily barbershop times and some have become blockbust- will be decorated with large pic- ers. tures featuring hairstyles from The idea to create a route around different times made specially these memorable sites has been pro- for films.” posed and supported by the Grodno In addition, a sculpture Regional Executive Committee. As a based on the Mikolka-Loco- result, signs are currently being placed motive film will be sited near in the city’s streets. In the future, bill- Grodno’s railway station. This boards, forged artwork and information film marked the beginning of panels will be installed. What do they Grodno’s cinematic career. It offer to tourists and citizens? features the old railway station Last summer, the last houses were and its famous turntable. An old demolished in the ‘fictional’ village of building in the university played Belye Rosy. They had been miracu- the role of a gymnasium, while lously preserved for 34 years Working moment during film shooting battle scenes were shot near the since the filmmakers came to fountain. In Telegrafnaya Street (where shoot their famous film about illboards, forged there is now a café), gallows were built the merging of the village artwork and for The Seller and the Poet film; in line and city. It was only in 2017 B with the plot, guerrillas were killed when the story described in the panels will create there. In turn, a two-storey wooden movie was almost repeated in house with an apartment — where the reality: apartment buildings the atmosphere in family of Nina Urgant’s character from and a shopping centre will be I Come from Childhood lived and where built here instead of private Grodno for locals the character of Vladimir Vysotsky re- houses. Only a small sign and and foreigners turned — was situated. The actor sang to a well (by which grandfather guitar accompaniment at the foot of its The Minsk Times Fedos reasoned with Mishka to feel they live stairs. Sometime later, the famous Zubr Thursday, Kisel) will soon remind us of in the city where restaurant was built; at present, a univer- January 25, the site where the famous film sity building is situated here. 2018 was shot. around 50 films In 2016, Cinema Alley — devoted The streets of old Grodno to Grodno’s cinematic career — opened are still full of the spirit of have been made in front of the Youth Centre. Two me- the past; unsurprisingly, stage First information point placed opposite morial plaques were laid; one of them Grodno’s Farny Roman Catholic Church directors are always happy to use the sky), My Name is Harlequin, aiming to immortalise the famous Belye city’s natural surroundings in their the German-Belarusian Babi Yar film, The first information point, dedi- Rosy film. The alley plaques were made work. Among the famous films are mov- the Smersh TV series and The Dnieper cated to the Smersh film, was placed in at Grodno’s Stone Processing Plant and ies shot in Soviet times: I Come from Border. Overall, 15 films are planned to Sovetskaya Street, opposite the famous six films are now represented there. In 10 Childhood (featuring Vladimir Vysot- be ‘immortalised’ in the trail. Farny Roman-Catholic Church. It fea- the future, their number will rise to 12. In excellent mood before PyeongChang SPORT is approaching the Olympic Games in great shape, as is confirmed by Belarusian biathlete’s mass Number of start victory at World Cup stage in Italian Antholz-Anterselva awards at 2nd By Kirill Karin European The President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko has Games to congratulated Darya Dom- increase racheva on her victory. The text reads: ‘You gave joy to millions By Sergey Selivanov of citizens of our country and your fans abroad who follow This was noted during the your performance. We all look session of the Executive forward to the start of the 2018 Committee of the European Winter Olympics and wish our Olympic Committees by team victory on the the Head of the Foundation PyeongChang tracks. We wish Directorate of the 2nd Euro- you good health, happiness and pean Games 2019, Georgy success!’ Katulin The leader of the national “The number of medals team didn’t make the best start groups will be raised to 208. to the race, with one miss dur- Three new disciplines will ap- ing her first shoot and falling pear in archery and two more back to the twentieth posi- weight categories will be added tion. However, Darya Dom- in female, freestyle and Greco- racheva gradually approached Roman wrestling. Furthermore, the leading group: she came to competitions in canoeing and the final firing line tenth (over kayaking will also have an ex- 30 seconds behind the lead, Darya Domracheva among leaders on the track tra programme: it’s in the men’s ). Darya had chance; I was simply doing er — Nadezhda Skardino — has 34 gold medals. After the 200m canoe-pair where Artem a good chance to win a medal my job. After the fourth shoot, didn’t take part in the race. It’s recent win, Domracheva’s re- Kozyr is current world cham- but hardly dared to rely on gold: I saw on a big screen that only believed this may have been a sult has equalled the number pion,” said Mr. Katulin. the team of biathletes ahead of several seconds separated me tactical move by her coaching of ’s personal golds: The programme of the her was very strong. However, from Anastasia. I then realised staff to ensure she is on top 30 each. second European Games, to Domracheva had a chance I should up my game! I’m now form for the Olympic Games. The mass start victory is the be held from June 21st-30th when her rivals fired a number continuing to prepare and find After winning the mass second this season for Dom- in Minsk, includes 15 sports: of penalty circles. The Belaru- my best form. I’ve taken an start in Antholz, Darya Dom- racheva. She is fourth (436 badminton, 3x3 basketball, sian athlete quickly closed five important step on the path to- racheva has joined the top three points) in the overall standings wrestling (Greco-Roman, free- targets and raced to the track wards it.” female athletes in the history of the World Cup. Mäkäräinen style, female), cycling (track first; at the final lap, she easily Another Belarusian — Irina of biathlon — for the number leads with 592 points — fol- and road), gymnastics (artistic, escaped Anastasia Kuzmina. Krivko — can also celebrate a of personal victories at World lowed by Kuzmina (577), Wier- rhythmic, acrobatics, aerobics Commenting on her suc- win. She could have competed Cup stages; until recently, the er (525) and Dalmayer (490). and trampoline), canoeing and cess, Darya Domracheva said for a place on the podium but Germans have ‘reigned’ there. After the Olympics, Darya will kayaking, judo, karate, athlet- that she was focused on shoot- made a frustrating single miss leads the have every chance to compete ics, sambo, archery, shooting ing. “I did not think of wheth- in her 20th shot. rating, with her 42 wins. Her for at least a place among the (bullet and stand), table tennis er my rivals would give me a In turn, Belarus’ main snip- compatriot top 3 biathletes of this season. and beach football. Belarusian crew was first on Dakar rally By Igor Grishin Federico Villagra (Iveco) took the lead. In the previous stage, Mr. Vyazovich’s Sergey Vyazovich’s crew covered truck was close to turning upside down the eleventh-round distance in the while another Belarusian crew — led best time — ensuring a first vic- by Alexey Vishnevsky — had to rescue tory for Belarusians in this highly them: initially, they put Martin Coloma’s popular rally stage collapsed truck on wheels, then helped Officially, this has been the seventh a motorcyclist who got into an accident Dakar for MAZ trucks. Unofficially, the and, finally, called for support for Rus- Belarusian vehicles first drove along the sian Anton Shibalov’s truck which set route laid in out in the African sands on fire (extinguished with the help Mr. back in 2001. The trucks have repeatedly Vyazovich who was driving ahead). reached the finals of the famous race as P.S. the technical support vehicle for a Baltic MAZ-SPORTauto team was ranked team. MAZ has been secretly ‘shining’ second in Dakar 2018’s final standings for years, but it was only in 2011 when Sergey Vyazovich pleased with performance at Dakar among trucks. This achievement of Ser- Minsk made the decision to establish a placed sixth in the overall standings) time, the recent rally has already gained gey Vyazovich’s crew is our best result company team and revive the sporting and, in 2018, they have been serious ri- a reputation as one of the most difficult over the whole time of our participa- The Minsk Times traditions begun in 1987. When they vals to the leaders. Sergey Vyazovich’s in its history. tion in the prestigious marathon. Never Thursday, were sending the first trucks (mostly third place in the general classification The stage which proved most suc- before did Belarusians get into the top January 25, convoy vehicles) to Latin America, few does not look remarkable, but a 20-min- cessful for the Belarusian truck had its three of the general classification. Ed- 2018 could have guessed that their market ute penalty for damage to a Japanese competitors beset by problems. Mr. Vya- uard Nikolaev of Russia (KamAZ-Mas- growth would be so fast. racer’s car (debates on the Belarusians’ zovich’s major rivals in the general clas- ter team) became the champion. Almost Initially, the idea was simply to protest continue even now) did not seem sification — Ton van Genugten (Iveco) half of crew fell out of the race during reach the end but, during their second to affect their tournament prospects. Ser- and Airat Mardeev (KamAZ) — lost the event. However, all Belarusian ve- Dakar participation, MAZ trucks began gey’s eleventh stage victory is seen by time in the desert and were left behind hicles crossed the finish line. Alongside to show their character. Last year, the the fans — who follow the adventures for almost 90 minutes. In turn, Eduard Sergey Vyazovich, this was done by Belarusians once again set a new per- of Belarusians in the desert — as long- Nikolaev (KamAZ) lost two hours to Alexander Vasilevsky (13th place) and sonal record (Alexander Vasilevsky was awaited and well-deserved. At the same repair the drive shaft and, as a result, Alexey Vishnevsky (14th). 11 The Minsk Times AGENDA Thursday, January 25, 2018 Shot of the week

Epiphany dip at Komsomolskoe Lake, in Minsk

Exhibitions Theatres NATIONAL ART MUSEUM OF MUSEUM OF THEATRICAL AND Palace of the republic THEATRE-STUDIO OF FILM BELARUS MUSICAL CULTURE HISTORY 1 Oktyabrskaya Square ACTORS 20 Lenin Street 5 Muzykalny Lane 27.01. Congratulations on Upcoming 13 Pobediteley Avenue Until 2rd February. Devotion to 95th Until 11th February. Belarusian Opera Holiday! 25.01. #13 26.01. Battlefield 27.01. Anniversary of Victor Gromyko Until 11th Legend Who Laughs Last 28.01. Abduction of February. Poetics of Landscapes by Semen NATIONAL ACADEMIC BOLSHOI Yelena 29.01. Master and Margarita Domarad Until 20th February. Saints of UNIVERSITY OF CULTURE ART OPERA AND BALLET THEATRE 30.01. Merchant Yepishkin’s Theatre the Undivided Church GALLERY 1 Parizhskoy Kommuny Street 31.01 and 01.02. The Mechanical Man 1 Oktyabrskaya Square 25.01. The Magic Flute 26.01. Little NATIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM Until 8th February. Between Hands and Flame Prince 27.01. Requiem 28.01. Doctor REPUBLICAN THEATRE OF 12 Karl Marx Street Aybolit; Giselle, ou les Wilis 30.01. BELARUSIAN DRAMA th Until 28 January. ARTefact Games GAL-TVORCHESTVO Carmen 31.01. Spartacus 01.02. 44 Kropotkin Street th Until 17 February. Dungeons of Light 47 Nezavisimosti Avenue Cavalleria Rusticana 25.01. Sufferings Over Common Sense Until 1st February. Exhibition of dolls: 26.01. An Uninvited Guest 27.01. Two BELARUSIAN STATE MUSEUM Fragile Dreams BELARUSIAN STATE ACADEMIC Miraculous Umbrellas; Adam’s Jokes OF GREAT PATRIOTIC WAR MUSICAL THEATRE 28.01. Concrete 30.01. The Broken Nest HISTORY CAT MUSEUM 44 Myasnikov Street 31.01 and 01.02. Doctor Raus’ Career 8 Pobediteley Avenue 23 Internatsionalnaya Street 25.01. A Thousand and One Nights Until 31st January. Fighting for Homeland Until 31st January. New Year Season in Cat 26.01. Tristan and Isolde 27.01. The MODERN ART THEATRE Museum Sleeping Beauty; Mister X 28.01. Jungle. 5 Oktyabrskaya Square NATIONAL LIBRARY OF New Year; Bridegrooms 30.01. Retro 28.01. House #2 BELARUS GALLERIA MINSK Style Wedding 31.01. Gypsy Baron 116 Nezavisimosti Avenue 9 Pobediteley Avenue 01.02. The Swan Lake YOUTH THEATRE Until 15th February. Valery Slauk’s 28-28th January. Hobby and Pastime-2018 17 Kozlov Street Graphics Until 28th February. Exhibition Until 4th March. 13th Wonder of the World MAXIM GORKY NATIONAL 25.01. Bigamist 26.01. Caught by Love of experiments: Science Museum Permanent exposition of Experimental ACADEMIC DRAMA THEATRE 27.01. Chekhov. Comedy. Seagull 28.01. Science Museum: EXPERImENtuS 5 Volodarsky Street The Fool 30.01. Celestino’s Career 31.01. MIKHAIL SAVITSKY ART 25.01. Red Hot Mamas 26.01. Panie Vanyushin’s Children 01.02. Love of Three GALLERY MUSEUM OF NATURE AND Kokhanku 27.01. The Twelfth Night 15 Svobody Square ECOLOGY 28.01. Zoika’s Flat 31.01. Taming of BELARUSIAN STATE PUPPET Until 4th February. Reflection 117 Kazinets Street the Shrew 01.02. Truth is Good but THEATRE Until 25th February. Lev Borodulin: Legend Until 25th March. Water Residents Happiness is Better 20 Engels Street of Sports Photography 26.01. Belvedere 27.01. Little Red CHELYUSKINTSEV PARK OF YANKA KUPALA NATIONAL Riding Hood 28.01. The Snow White VLADISLAV GOLUBOK CULTURE AND REST ACADEMIC THEATRE PARLOUR 84/1 Nezavisimosti Avenue 7 Engels Street MINSK CONCERT HALL 14 Starovilenskaya Street Until 30th June. Legacy of Belarus: 27 and 28.01. Inspector 30.01. School 5 Oktyabrskaya Street Until 28th January. Time to Search Dedicated to Minsk’s 950th Anniversary of Taxpayers 31.01. Pinsk Gentry 31.01 and 01.02. Come, See…and Go Away

INTERNATIONAL Registration certificate #62 To order: 124 Учредитель: Редактор Виктор Михайлович Харьков Время подписания в печать: 20.10 The Minsk Times is taking Address: Printed at the Belarusian Publishing Учреждение Администрации Президента Отпечатана в Республиканском orders for the publishing Объём издания — 3 п. л. унитарном предприятии of advertisements and Socio-political Weekly 11 Kiseleva Str., Minsk 220029 House Republican Unitary Enterprise Республики Беларусь «Редакция газеты Адрес редакции: «Издательство «Белорусский Дом License № 02330/106 as of «Советская Белоруссия». PR pieces for companies Founder: Editorial office contact number: а печати». ЛП № 02330/106 and representatives of 30.04.2004 Ул. Б. Хмельницкого, 10 , Минск, 220013 ул. Киселева, 11, Минск, 220029 +375 17 290—61—13; Регистрационное свидетельство № 62 от 30.04.2004. Пр. Независимости, 79, organisations, as well as for SB editorial office 220013 Minsk, Телефон редакции: 220013, Минск. their goods and services. fax +375 17 290—68—31 Выдано 02.03.2009 Министерством Editor 79 Nezavisimosti Avenue информации Республики Беларусь +375 17 290 68 31; +375 17 290 61 13 Subscription indexes: Departmental — 637302; Individual — 63730 Victor Kharkov E—mail: [email protected] Circulation: 1,940 E—mail: [email protected] Тираж: 1,940, Заказ: 124 Индексы подписки: ведомственной — 637302; индивидуальной — 63730