Polotsk will be developed as one of the largest tourist and cultural centers in Belarus

May 25, Minsk /BELTA/. Polotsk will be developed as one of the largest tourist and cultural centers of Belarus. This was stated on May 25 by the head of state Alexander Lukashenko, who participated in events dedicated to the 1150th anniversary of the city, BELTA was informed by the press service of the Belarusian leader. Before the official part, Alexander Lukashenko was briefed on how the socio-economic development tasks for Polotsk and the Vitebsk region are being addressed. Governor Alexander Kosinets reported to the head of state on the fulfillment of forecast indicators, significant growth in net profit of the region's organizations, plans for attracting investment and housing construction, and the completion of spring field work. Throughout the year, the Vitebsk region has seen steady growth in the population's monetary income. The region's leadership plans to soon restore salaries to the level of $500, primarily through increased labor productivity and improved production efficiency. The President was informed about the implementation of measures under the comprehensive program for the development of Polotsk for 2008-2012, according to which many facilities in the city have already been repaired, reconstructed, and built. Of the 37 program measures, 30 will be implemented by the end of 2012. Regarding the remaining seven, the regional leadership has found significant reserves for saving budget funds. At the same time, Alexander Kosinets requested additional funding for some issues. The head of state instructed to study the possibility of providing such support. Alexander Lukashenko visited Polotsk State University. Here he was informed about the fulfillment of the assignment to restore and reconstruct the buildings of the former Jesuit Collegium, which houses this educational institution. A total of nine buildings were transferred. To date, six of them have been commissioned after modernization. "I didn't believe you would restore it, and I regretted that I took it on, but you did a good job," the President said. Currently, the student population of Polotsk State University is about 13.5 thousand people. However, there are problems with providing housing. In this regard, the construction of a new student dormitory for 730 places is planned. Alexander Lukashenko inspected the university premises, familiarized himself with the organization of the educational process, and communicated with students. The head of state also reviewed projects for the restoration and reconstruction of the historical part of Polotsk. In particular, it concerns the development of infrastructure in the territories adjacent to the Monastery of Saint Euphrosyne and the Saint Sophia Cathedral. The President approved the proposed plans. "We must preserve and restore everything," he instructed. During his visit to the university and familiarization with educational literature, the issue of the need to study certain subjects in schools in one of the two state languages, which is periodically discussed in society and educational circles, was also raised. "Why raise issues when they have long been resolved and are being resolved calmly on their own?" the head of state emphasized. Alexander Lukashenko clearly stated his position that everyone should be free to choose which of the state languages to study in. He also noted that he graduated from a Russian-language school. However, this did not prevent him from successfully studying the Belarusian language. Then the head of state attended a concert dedicated to the city's anniversary. "This date is significant not only for the people of Polotsk. It evokes a deep sense of national pride in the heart of every Belarusian. Honoring the glorious pages of the chronicle of one's people is the foundation of patriotism and civic consciousness. Just as roots nourish and give stability to a tree, so does the historical past, respect for the deeds of ancestors elevate and ennoble a person, form and strengthen a nation," Alexander Lukashenko is confident. The President emphasized that Belarusian statehood originates from the land of Polotsk. The city played an outstanding role in history as the spiritual cradle of the people. "It is from here that the light of Orthodox faith, writing, and art spread throughout the Belarusian land," the head of state said. As Alexander Lukashenko noted, having visited Polotsk, he was pleased to see that the city has not stagnated in its development, has not turned into a museum city living only on past glory. "Its aspiration for the future is evident in everything: in new buildings and industrial enterprises, in the plans and moods of people. Life is bustling everywhere here. The economy, social sphere, education, and culture are developing successfully, comfortable conditions are being created for the residents of Polotsk and numerous guests. And at the same time, the rich heritage of past centuries is carefully and wisely preserved," the head of state said. At the same time, the President noted, there are residents of the city who do not fully embrace the plans for the modernization of Polotsk. "I must say to those who directly, openly or secretly try to resist the modernization of the city: modernization is not a modern renovation, we are striving to extract from ancient times everything that we do not see today, so that our nation is proud of what is on the lands of Polotsk," Alexander Lukashenko noted. "For these people, I want to say: I have made a decision - the general plan for the restoration of Polotsk. Polotsk will be a pillar of spirituality and culture for our people." "Therefore, for those who are currently trying to go around the courtyards and collect signatures - do not hurry, parliamentary elections will be soon. Preserve this spirit, you will still need it, and we will turn Polotsk into a true Mecca for a cultured person. The decision has been made," the President emphasized. "I want to believe that thanks to the implementation of the concept for the development of the infrastructure of the historical districts of Polotsk, the beautiful city will be reborn and will become one of the most promising cultural and tourist centers of our country," the head of state added. Speaking about Polotsk, Alexander Lukashenko noted that this city is affectionately called the heart of the Belarusian land. "Every Belarusian must visit this city in order to, by touching the sources of national history, feel pride in themselves and their hardworking and talented people," the President believes. "Here, in the geographical center of Europe, every European must also visit. Wandering through the streets, where for over a thousand years the traditions of the West and East, different faiths and cultures have intertwined, it will be easier to understand: our common past is a step towards a common future." "Belarus is not the backyards of Europe, but a gateway to Euro-Asia, a key to the practical implementation of the idea of integration of integrations. After all, the unification of the potentials of the European and Eurasian unions will create completely new opportunities for the dynamic development and comprehensive cooperation of countries and peoples of the two continents. It is in promoting this idea that we see the most important mission and geopolitical role of our state as a connecting link," the President stated. Alexander Lukashenko once again congratulated the people of Polotsk on their anniversary and wished Polotsk to continue to live, develop, and prosper. -0-