MINSK, 27 February (BelTA) – President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko held a working meeting with Chairman of the Gomel Oblast Executive Committee Vladimir Dvornik on 27 February, the press service of the Belarusian leader told BelTA.
The meeting touched upon the oblast’s development in 2011, fulfillment of presidential instructions, plans and prospects for the future.
The head of state drew attention to agribusiness due to ongoing climate changes. “Gomel Oblast should be adjusted to the climate as far as agricultural crops and agribusiness management as a whole are concerned,” said Alexander Lukashenko.
Vladimir Dvornik informed Alexander Lukashenko about the state of affairs in the oblast agriculture. Gomel Oblast has decided to increase the share of short-rain crops in crop rotation, primarily the share of corn. It has allowed storing sufficient amounts of forage for a stable increase in livestock products.
The development of the Polesie area, primarily the western part of Gomel Oblast and the eastern part of Brest Oblast, was also discussed.
The Gomel Oblast governor said that in 2011 only 2 out of 16 forecast targets were not hit. Home construction and investments were below the year 2010. Yet in 2011 Gomel Oblast attracted three times as much FDI as in 2010 – over $200 million. The investment portfolio for 2012 is believed to be able to increase the figure.
The oblast’s production sector did well. The oblast has a considerable industrial potential. The development of the Petrikovskoye potash salts deposit should give a boost to the development of the region. “It will be a huge industrial breakthrough for Gomel Oblast and good conditions will be created for people,” said Vladimir Dvornik.
Alexander Lukashenko gave instructions to step up efforts to carry out the measures aimed at social and economic development of Gomel Oblast.
