Opinion: Constructive dialogue is the only way towards real changes

The regional forum dedicated to the new amendments to the Belarusian Constitution brought together government officials, representatives of political parties, elders' councils, and the youth council, university rectors, MPs of all levels, heads of enterprises and organizations, and active participants of the previous regional discussions.

“The amendments, announced by the head of state, should solidify the rule of the people and social justice as priorities and set down future criteria for the state policy,” Gennady Solovei stressed.

According to the governor, the forum gives everyone an opportunity to express their views and is a great way to find new ideas, exchange opinions, and discuss matters of the development of Belarus and Gomel Oblast and ways to address them. “This constructive dialogue – in contrast to street protests – is the only way to bring about real changes. Our involvement, awareness of the responsibility for our decisions, and objectivity influence the course of the region's and country's development,” he believes.

Despite the current processes in the world economy, Belarus and Gomel Oblast remain intent on improving people's living standards and meeting the economic and social development targets, Gennady Solovei noted.

“Gomel Oblast is one of Belarus' economically, scientifically, and culturally developed regions. It is the country's largest industrial hub and is home to more than 200 large and medium-sized enterprises. It is responsible for all oil and gas extraction in Belarus and the production of almost all forage and grain harvesters and mineral phosphorous fertilizers, over 95% of steel, and about half of motor gasoline and diesel fuel,” the governor said.

According to him, Gomel Oblast accounts for about 13% of the country's total export, placing third after the capital and Minsk Oblast. “We are steadily and successfully carrying out work to improve the people's living standards: produce and sell goods, attract new investment, develop the labor market and the social sphere. This is possible thanks to a well-balanced economic strategy, achievements in foreign trade, and, most importantly, local residents' efforts. Our nation has achieved a lot in recent years, but the time sets new requirements,” Gennady Solovei remarked.

The participants of the forum put forward proposals that had been actively discussed during the previous regional discussions. Representatives of Gomel Oblast will present their ideas and views about the economy, education, healthcare, youth policy, and local self-governance at the Belarusian People's Congress.