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Lukashenko okays Polotsk development plan

25.05.2012
MINSK, 25 May (BelTA) – President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko has approved the general development plan of Polotsk. The Belarusian leader said this on 25 May during a concert celebrating the 1150th anniversary of the town, BelTA has learnt. Alexander Lukashenko said that he was happy to see that Polotsk has not turned into a museum city stuck in the past and complacent about its past glory. “Everything here says the town is thirsting for modernity. I can see it in new buildings and industrial enterprises, plans and moods of people. The life is pulsing through this town. Economy, social services, education and culture are making progress; the town is becoming more comfortable for residents and visitors. However, it cherishes and protects the rich heritage of the past centuries,” the head of state said. At the same time, the President noted that some residents are not in favor of the modernization plans of the town. “Here is what I want to say to people who openly or secretly oppose the modernization efforts: modernization is not a changeover; we are trying to uncover and show to the whole world the best Polotsk has,” Alexander Lukashenko said. “I want to say the following things to these people: I have made a decision and approved the general renovation plan of Polotsk. Polotsk will live on as a citadel of the spirit and culture of our people,” the head of state said. “People who go from house to house collecting signatures – please, quench your passions. The parliamentary election is coming soon. Keep this spirit, you will need it. Polotsk will turn into a real Mecca for cultural people. The decision has been made,” the President added. During a visit to Polotsk State University, Alexander Lukashenko was informed about a project to restore and renovate the historical part of Polotsk. This project envisages infrastructure development of the areas adjoining the St Euphrosyne Convent and the Holy Wisdom Cathedral. The head of state gave the go-ahead to the plans. “We need to preserve and restore everything,” he said. “I want to believe that after the infrastructure development concept is materialized, the beautiful town will get a new life and become one of the most promising cultural and tourist destinations of our country,” the President emphasized.

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