Lukashenka: And What About Matrix?

The dictator has excoriated in Hrodna region.

Aliaksander Lukashenka demanded measures for more effective social and economic development of Hrodna region. The Belarusian leader made the statement at a meeting held in Vaukavysk on 13 August to discuss the social and economic development of Hrodna region, BelTA informs.

The dictator noted that he started his working visit not from a tour of concrete companies, but from a thorough analysis of the social and economic development of Hrodna region and Vaukavysk district.

“I was, first of all, interested in the implementation of the plans that were outlined as A Matrix of Goals for the Vertical Power. This program was worked out last year. We agreed then that we would regularly monitor the process of implementation of the most important targets. I am concerned that such a strong region as Hrodna region failed to meet five out of eight key parameters in H1 2016,” – Lukashenka said.

“Economy performed weaker in general: the gross regional product growth made up 97.5% against the forecasted almost 101% in H1 2016. Labor productivity was also lower than the last year's figures. Hrodna region showed the poorest results among the Belarusian oblasts in FDI attraction. Among the serious faults is a drop in the amount of contract works (by 15%), commissioning of new housing (37% of the annual target), a fall in real wages, an increase in the number of loss-making companies and foreign debts, other issues,” – he said.

Lukashenka stressed that he was ready for a serious discussion of the reasons behind the region's backward performance and failure to implement a set of instructions, and also emphasized the need to work out concrete measures to address the problems in the region.

“The development of agro-industrial complex requires special attention. How is the harvest going in the region, in the district? What is the quality of feed for cattle production? What is being done to diversify agricultural exports?” – he underlined.

The governor added that he would also like to listen to the opinion of representatives of the controlling bodies and ministries on the performance of the local authorities and their cooperation with the nationwide structures.

“The assessment and proposals should be worth consideration, – Lukashenka said. – We have gathered here in order not to punish each other, not to escalate the situation, but to meet the challenges of the present moment.”