MINSK, 12 August (BelTA) – Belarus is ready to provide more aid to Russia in fighting fires, said President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko as he met with Rustam Minnikhanov, President of the Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation, on 12 August.
“I would like to assure you personally and our friends in your republic that we will do our best to help in this complicated situation. We are ready to do what we can to also help other regions of Russia that have been affected by the abnormal weather,” said the Belarusian head of state.
Alexander Lukashenko advised against seeking any political reasons in Belarus’ aid to Russia. “There is no politics. Don’t raise the hype in mass media. What politics are you talking about when villages are ablaze?” said the President. He remarked that people in Russia recognize that “Belarusian guys are working effectively and honestly”. “We will never consider Russia a foreign country. Our misfortunes are shared,” said the Belarusian head of state.
The President also said that the situation in Belarus is not exactly good. The country’s south has been badly affected by the drought. However, Belarus is experienced in handling such situations. Every kilometer is under control. The country has chosen to fight fires vigorously. Two weeks before up to 500 fire hazards were registered but they lasted for several minutes only. All villages in forest areas have been preserved. “We do what we can to stand up to the elements,” said Alexander Lukashenko.
According to Alexander Lukashenko, agriculture is the most affected industry. He remarked that despite the lower gross grain yield the country will harvest sufficient amounts and there are reserves.
“We will survive the onslaught. If there are any reserves, we will surely help you due to our special relations. We would like you, our Russia, to know that we will never stay indifferent,” said Alexander Lukashenko. He added that if necessary, forces from Belarus’ western part may be recruited to send new aid to Russia. He also reminded that the country has certain experience of fighting peat fires. The President instructed the Prime Minister of Belarus to contact the Moscow Oblast Governor and the Moscow Mayor to talk about what should be done in the present situation. A careful approach is required, said Alexander Lukashenko.
The Belarusian head of state underlined once again that Belarus is ready to help Russia relying on the existing experience. “We will try to help you. If you need Belarusian food, you can have it,” he said.
In turn, the President of Tatarstan remarked that the drought has badly affected Tatarstan, resulting in fires. He said that this year’s grain yield will be considerably smaller. He also said that Belarus shows understanding. “I believe that together we will handle it,” said Rustam Minnikhanov.
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