"To avoid getting bogged down in red tape." Lukashenko held a meeting on the implementation of key investment projects abroad

The head of state noted that he regularly visits other countries. One example is a recent extensive business trip during which Alexander Lukashenko visited Russia, China, Indonesia, and Myanmar. At the same time, the Belarusian side is always well received in various regions of the world – in countries of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and others. Such business trips have a positive effect on the economy, as specific and significant agreements on developing cooperation are reached at the level of heads of state.

"The effect of such business trips is considerable. But I am afraid of red tape, so that it all doesn't drown," the Belarusian leader emphasized.

Alexander Lukashenko cited the agreement on the construction of a pulp and cardboard mill in Belarus, reached with Oman, as an example. The implementation of this project is not proceeding actively enough, despite its importance. "This is extremely necessary for us. We are not managing, as I see it from above, to process the timber that is maturing on the stump. Therefore, we need to process this raw material reasonably and without excess. This is our asset," the President said about the importance of this project. "We agreed: we will do this and that. A lot of time has passed. The government reports: we signed a memorandum, we are thinking, we are planning... How long will we plan?"

In this regard, Alexander Lukashenko outlined the reason why he decided to gather responsible persons and hear how important agreements are being implemented: "The main thing is the economy, the foundation. So that they don't drag their feet, so that these business trips, especially at the level of the head of state, are not fleeting and miss the mark. But, besides this, ministers and the prime minister also make corresponding business trips."

The head of state also called the meeting an element of presidential control over the implementation of the most important agreements with foreign countries. Specifically, investment projects, both in Belarus and Belarusian projects abroad.

"In terms of exports, our enterprises performed well at the beginning of this year. During the recent major visit, many kind words were also expressed towards our country and plans were outlined," Alexander Lukashenko noted. "At the same time, it has long been known that simple trade is not enough for successful market development, especially in distant markets. The task is solved through cooperation, moving final production closer to consumers, and creating our own or joint logistics and production facilities on site. The tools to achieve these goals are available, and much has been done in recent months."

The President recalled that an investment component was previously included in the government's action program for developing cooperation with far-arc countries, primarily Africa, for 2026-2030. In addition, an agreement on trade in services and investment with China came into force on January 1 of this year, and in May, a new Presidential Decree was adopted with a clear focus on attracting direct investment.

"One could say that a pool of 60 projects (ideas) worth about $6 billion has been painstakingly developed to attract investors. In June 2026, the Council of Ministers finally approved the strategy for the development of multi-brand service centers for Belarusian equipment and industrial equipment in other countries - the CIS and the far arc. Without this, there's no way forward: no one will buy equipment if it's not clear that it can be repaired, that warranty service can be provided," the head of state noted. "These documents should not lie dormant but should become a guide to action. Moreover, to immediate action, without red tape. Based on my inner feelings, we are still turning around extremely slowly."

"Offer options, there should be no excuses. The main thing is that you hear me and react. Let's solve certain issues on the merits. And another thing: do not promise what you cannot do. You should only do what we can," Alexander Lukashenko addressed the meeting participants.

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