In Belarus, all polling stations where voting for the country's presidential election was taking place closed at 8:00 PM, according to a BELTA correspondent.

Initiative, investment, and innovation will be the key drivers of the Vitebsk region's economic development in the coming five-year period. This was stated at the solemn ceremony of awarding the honorary title "Person of the Year of Vitebsk Region" by the Chairman of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee, member of the Council of the Republic, Alexander Kosinets, as reported by a BELTA correspondent. In 2010, the industrial production growth rate was 117% compared to the 2009 level, and 618 thousand square meters of housing were built. However, more challenging tasks are set for 2011. In particular, the growth rate of industrial production is planned at 120%, and the output of innovative products should account for 21% of the total volume. Sales profitability in industry should be 15%, and in the agro-industrial complex - at least 10%. The region's success depends on the work of every resident - labor productivity needs to be doubled to achieve the set results, said Alexander Kosinets. At the same time, labor motivation will be strengthened. For example, the regional executive committee is already considering the possibility of awarding the honorary title "Person of the Year of Vitebsk Region" with cars next year.