Laureates of the regional prize "Person of the Year of Vitebsk Region-2023" were honored in Vitebsk
– The honoring of the "Person of the Year of Vitebsk Region" laureates has become an honorable and beautiful tradition in the region. Throughout the ages, conscientious work, skill, and talent have formed a person's authority. Among this year's laureates are many people of working professions – fitters, plasterers, masons, weavers, operators, drivers, tractor drivers, who are as important in our society as doctors, teachers, engineers, technologists, zootechnicians, and agronomists, – noted the Chairman of the Regional Executive Committee Alexander Subbotin.
The head of the region also emphasized the symbolism of the ceremony, which takes place during the peak of the electoral campaign, when pre-election campaigning for candidates for deputies of all levels is underway. This is a crucial stage in the socio-political life of the state. Alexander Subbotin expressed confidence that the residents of the region will elect worthy people who will defend their interests and strengthen the prestige of the country.
Vitebsk region has something to be proud of. The region concluded 2023 with positive dynamics in key economic sectors. Gross regional product increased by 3% compared to 2022. 3.2 billion rubles of investments were directed towards the development of the production and social spheres, with over a third of this amount allocated to industry. The business sector makes a significant contribution to the regional budget, accounting for one-third of revenues and generating over 40% of total sales.
This year, the region maintains leading positions among the republic's regions in export performance (ranking first in goods export and third in services export). Foreign trade operations are conducted with 115 countries. We are exploring new markets. For instance, Vitebsk products have started to be supplied to Ghana, Hong Kong, Yemen, Korea, Malta, Morocco, and Nepal. Exports to "far arc" countries have increased 2.7-fold.
A significant event for the region will be the XI Forum of Regions of Belarus and Russia, themed "Science – the Future of the Union State." The events are planned to be held in Vitebsk, Polotsk, and Novopolotsk.
– We have been set specific tasks, the solution of which will require competence, the ability to make well-considered decisions, and organizational discipline at every workplace. The authorities' focus is on people's quality of life. It depends on many indicators, including the volume of construction and installation work and the commissioning of landmark social facilities, – noted Alexander Subbotin, providing specific examples that confirm the social orientation of state policy.
The Year of Peace and Creation facilitated the birth of many initiatives and the achievement of high results in various fields. In November last year, the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee was awarded a special diploma in the republican competition "Energy Efficiency Leader" for achievements in energy saving. 2024 has been declared the Year of Quality. Quality, as emphasized by the head of the region, is not only a direct indicator of the competitiveness of Belarusian goods and services but also a testament to our patriotism.
In his speech, Alexander Subbotin paid special attention to preserving the memory of the heroic past. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Belarus from the Nazi invaders. By strengthening historical, spiritual, and cultural traditions, we set benchmarks for future regional development.
– The achievements of each of you are the success of the entire region, – Alexander Subbotin addressed the current laureates. – I am convinced that only with a responsible attitude to work can we achieve large-scale breakthroughs and solve ambitious and bold tasks. Please accept our gratitude for your conscientious, selfless work, initiative and innovation, and responsible civic stance. May your example serve as a guiding star for the youth.
After the award ceremony, Vladimir Andreichenko, Chairman of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus, was invited to the stage. He was presented with the Certificate of Honor of the Regional Executive Committee and the badge for merits in the development of the Vitebsk region. In accordance with the joint decision of the Vitebsk City Executive Committee and the Presidium of the Vitebsk City Council of Deputies, our speaker was awarded the title of "Honorary Citizen of the City of Vitebsk." This is an acknowledgment of the many years of fruitful work of our countryman in public administration bodies, high professionalism, and significant personal contribution to state building, and the socio-economic development of the northern region and Vitebsk.
– I am grateful for such high recognition of my work. But this is not my personal achievement, but that of all the residents of the region, the collective effort of the Vitebsk City Executive Committee and the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee, – noted Vladimir Andreichenko.
After the solemn part, a performance was given by the renowned Philharmonic ensemble – the folk dance, music, and song ensemble "Talaka," which for three decades has been an example of the true culture of the Vitebsk region and Belarus as a whole.
Photo by Petr Chimkovsky.