Volozhin Region
Executive Committee

Belarus has achieved one of Europe’s and the world’s lowest infant mortality rates, Dmitry Lazar, Deputy Head of the Directorate for Medical Care Provision – Head of the Department of Medical Care for Mothers and Children at the Healthcare Ministry, told BelTA’s Nation Speaks project.

“The maternal mortality rate currently does not exceed 1.5 cases per 100,000 live births. In 1993, that figure stood at 20.4. This represents a dramatic improvement from 1993, when the rate was 20.4. Such progress positions Belarus among leading nations like Israel, Poland, and Finland. Furthermore, we also maintain one of the lowest infant mortality rates globally. The 2024 rate of 2.9 per 1,000 live births comes in below the global average of 3 per 1,000. We have kept it below the global average for many years already,” the healthcare official said.

He explained that each case of maternal or infant death is reviewed by treatment control councils at both the regional and national levels. “Problems are always identified and resolved immediately. We monitor severe cases daily; I personally track every case when a child gets in intensive care in critical condition, and a team is dispatched there immediately. We work closely with the regions. The healthcare system has a multi-tier structure: The National Research and Treatment Center Mother and Child serves as the fourth, top tier. The third tier consists of regional healthcare facilities, while the first tier comprises district hospitals. A system of inter-district centers constitutes the second tier, creating a comprehensive network. In Minsk Oblast, for example, these centers are in Soligorsk, Molodechno, and Borisov. By concentrating top-notch equipment and highly qualified specialists at these centers, we ensure that critically ill patients are directed to the appropriate facility and receive the care they need.” 

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Tomahawks will not resolve the conflict in Ukraine but will only escalate the situation to a nuclear war, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said at a meeting to discuss the situation in the world and Belarus-USA relations in Minsk on 14 October, BelTA has learned. 

"Tomahawks will not solve the problem. They will escalate the situation to a nuclear war. Perhaps Donald Trump understands this better than anyone, as he is in no hurry to hand over this lethal weapon for deep strikes into Russian territory, as President Zelensky is counting on,” the Belarusian leader said.

Previously, Russian President Vladimir Putin also commented on the potential delivery of Tomahawks to Ukraine. According to him, Russia's response to this step, should it be taken, would be to strengthen its air defense system. The Russian leader made the corresponding statement during a press conference following his visit to Tajikistan.

According to The Wall Street Journal, U.S. President Donald Trump stated at a meeting with Vladimir Zelensky in late September that he is open to lifting restrictions on Kiev’s use of American-made long-range weapons to strike inside Russia. However, the White House leader did not commit. Axios reported that during that meeting, Vladimir Zelensky specifically requested Tomahawk missiles, which the United States had previously refused to supply to Ukraine. 

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Belarus’ profitability of sold goods, works and services amounted to 8.4% in January-August 2025, return on sales – 6.9%, BelTA learned from the National Statistical Committee of Belarus.

As of 1 September 2025, accounts receivable amounted to Br96.9 billion, including overdue – Br10.8 billion, or 11.2% of total accounts receivable.

Accounts payable amounted to Br115.4 billion, including Br12.4 billion overdue, or 10.8% of the total accounts payable.

Data on financial performance of organizations are given without banks, non-bank credit and financial institutions, the Development Bank, insurance organizations, budget organizations, and small organizations without departmental subordination.

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Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko commented on the West’s ongoing sanctions policy, despite the changed rhetoric of the U.S. leadership as he convened a meeting to discuss the situation in the world and Belarus-USA relations, BelTA has learned. 

“It should be taken into account that currently sanctions against Belarus imposed by the United States and its allies, especially the European Union, remain in force. Yes, we have learned to live and work under this sanction pressure, though it is not without difficulties. However, they do exist, harming us and diverting our attention from addressing many issues,” the head of state said. “Unfortunately, the U.S. administration continues to pursue a policy of promoting certain pseudo-democratic values. We see this as well. In words, they seem to have moved away from this approach. However, in practice, nothing has changed.”

Aleksandr Lukashenko recalled that earlier U.S. President Donald Trump and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had announced an end to funding for various NGOs and other “dirty deals”. “But we recently learned that this is not the case, as the funding has been resumed. Well, it is up to the United States to decide how they spend their money. Our task is to prioritize our own interests,” the Belarusian leader emphasized.

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There is a significant opportunity for a breakthrough in relations between Belarus and the United States, while Belarus is equally open to rebuilding relations with Western Europe, Belarusian KGB Chairman Ivan Tertel told journalists following the meeting with the head of state to discuss the global situation and relations with the United States, BelTA reports.

“We have every chance of achieving a breakthrough in relations with the United States. Belarus also remains open to forging closer ties with Western Europe. I believe we will hear good news on this front soon,” he informed.

Ivan Tertel emphasized that Belarus is committed to dialogue and the search for mutually acceptable solutions that respect national interests. “We have developed our proposals and our negotiating position, and we have already reached a consensus with the American side on a number of issues,” he said. “However, our partners must understand that there are national interests we will always consider and pursue, the same way as the Americans do. This is a practical, rational approach to the negotiation process, one that takes into account exclusively our national interests.”

“There are certain issues that still require discussion. When we reach an understanding that our positions have moved closer, we are always ready to meet and to discuss sensitive issues. This dialogue is ongoing; we are engaged in it, discussing various aspects every day,” the KGB chief noted.

He explained that the head of state is deeply involved in this agenda, working on it practically every day. It is also important that U.S. President Donald Trump, who has done much for the peace process in the Middle East, has a profound understanding of the issue and is deeply involved in the Ukraine agenda. “I am convinced that this will ultimately serve as a very important step toward resolving this conflict,” said Ivan Tertel. 

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Oman is allocating a land plot for Belarus’ tourism cluster, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said as he announced new appointments and emphasized the emerging markets and opportunities in the context of growing ties with Oman, BelTA has learned.

“They are allocating a land plot to us so that we can create our own large tourism cluster there. So that people can fly not only to Türkiye and the UAE. It is literally an hour [the flight duration is about an hour longer than to the UAE] – and you are there, by the ocean. So, please, come, work, the door is open. But we must move forward!” the head of state said.

“My job is to open doors – now enter and work. We were hesitant before, did not really know about the opportunities in Oman. They are happy to welcome us. They are willing to provide us access to ports, plants for us to make potash fertilizers, produce new ones there, sell them. Countless opportunities are emerging!” Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized.

He added that the Omani side is keen to implement large-scale projects in Belarus as well. One of them is the construction of a pulp and paper mill, a memorandum on which was signed following the talks in Minsk between the Belarusian president and the Sultan of Oman on 6 October. “That is nearly two billion in investments. They trust us and are eager to build it here,” the president noted.

It was previously reported that the project was estimated at around $1.4 billion in total investments. The annual production capacity is projected at around 800,000 tonnes.

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Omani tourists will be offered package tours to Belarus based on Belavia's Minsk-Salalah charter flights, BelTA learned from the National Tourism Agency following a meeting with a delegation of representatives from the tourism sector of the Sultanate of Oman, held at the Belarusian Sports and Tourism Ministry.

The parties discussed the prospects of launching regular Oman Air flights on the Muscat-Minsk route in 2026, which would significantly simplify logistics and increase the accessibility of Belarus for Omani travelers. Omani tourists have shown particular interest in hunting tourism and fishing, as well as the evening cultural life in Belarusian cities. Representatives of the Omani tourism business expressed confidence that Belarus can offer a unique experience for lovers of active recreation and cultural entertainment.

Representatives of Omani tour operators presented their ideas for concepts of family tours to Belarus, emphasizing opportunities for nature recreation and offers for children's holidays during the summer season, when extremely high temperatures are prevalent in the Sultanate of Oman.

“Belarus, with its picturesque landscapes, clean air, and developed infrastructure for children's recreation, could be an excellent alternative for Omani families wishing to spend the summer in comfortable conditions,” the National Tourism Agency said.

The expected duration of the tours is 4-6 days, and 4-5 star category hotels are planned for accommodation to ensure a high level of comfort. According to the visiting delegation, the corridor between the prince's and princess's chambers in the Nesvizh Castle inspired them to develop tourist offers for newlyweds in Belarus.

Representatives of the National Union of Tourist Organizations also took part in the meeting. According to the union, sales of tours to Oman with departure from Minsk opened on 24 July. Belavia's flight program to Salalah will run from 23 October until the end of May 2026.

“Belarusian nature, climate, picturesque landscapes, and developed infrastructure - all of this can attract tourists from hot Oman to our country. Belarus has many forests, water bodies, exotic marshes, glacial lakes, and the entire country is permeated with river arteries. The largest part of the relic forest, Belovezhskaya Pushcha, is located on our territory. Overall, all regions of the country are of interest from a landscape and natural point of view,” representatives of the tourism business believe.

Tour operators propose forming city tours based on the rich cultural life of the capital and other cities. Minsk and Minsk Oblast have a sufficient number of attractions - from medieval castles and monuments of sacral architecture to the rich architectural heritage of the Soviet era. No other city in the Eurasian part of the continent has such a pronounced connection through time.

“All this is very important to convey to Omani tourists while promoting the unique Belarusian tourism product in the Sultanate,” the National Union of Tourist Organizations said.

On 8-11 October, Belarus hosted a delegation of representatives from the tourism sector of the Sultanate of Oman as part of a familiarization tour organized by the Tourism Department of the Belarusian Sports and Tourism Ministry and the National Tourism Agency. This visit is an important step in developing Belarusian-Omani cooperation in the tourism sector, aimed at attracting foreign tourists and strengthening Belarus' image as an attractive tourist destination.

During the intensive program, the Omani visitors became familiar with the most significant historical and cultural landmarks of Belarus and also assessed the level of service and infrastructure offered by Belarusian hotels and organizations.

The tour program included visits to gems of Belarusian architecture, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List: Mir Castle and Nesvizh Castle. These sites are vivid examples of rich history and architectural craftsmanship, reflecting different eras and styles.

The guests also visited the Dudutki museum of ancient folk crafts and technologies, the Bolshoi Theater of Belarus, took a sightseeing tour of Minsk, and visited the National Scientific and Practical Center of Sports.

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Press Secretary of the Belarusian president Natalya Eismont shared some details of Aleksandr Lukashenko’s international contacts on the sidelines of the CIS summit in Tajikistan on the air of the First News TV Channel, BelTA has learned.

In the run-up to the main event of the summit in Dushanbe, an informal dinner of CIS leaders was held behind closed doors. “For now I cannot share any specific details, as that is the nature of the informal, closed-door discussions,” the press secretary said when asked to shed light on the talks. She explained that at such events presidents communicate one‑on‑one, but also within a larger group. “They had a lengthy discussion, in a very trusting and positive atmosphere. That I can say for sure,” she added.

The leaders’ dialogue continued on the main day of the summit. Before its official start, President Aleksandr Lukashenko of Belarus and President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan held a conversation. “Our president and the president of Tajikistan discussed the full range of issues related to Belarus-Tajikistan relations,” Natalya Eismont noted.

“Communication also continued today with all other presidents and with the prime minister of Armenia. As is usual, at major international platforms, everyone uses this time to talk and engage constructively,” the press secretary explained.

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The defense ministries of Belarus and Cuba have agreed to intensify cooperation, the press service of the Belarusian Defense Ministry told BelTA.

At the conclusion of the official visit, the Cuban delegation, led by Chief of the General Staff – First Deputy Minister of the Cuban Revolutionary Armed Forces Roberto Legra Sotolongo, toured a Belarusian Air Force and Air Defense Forces command post and weapons arsenal. The delegation also visited the Brest Hero Fortress Memorial Complex.

“Following the visit, the defense chiefs of both countries agreed to intensify cooperation across all the areas of mutual interest,” the press service of the Belarusian Defense Ministry informed.

In this context, Pavel Muraveiko, Chief of the General Staff and First Deputy Defense Minister of Belarus, set a task to arrange and conduct a series of practical bilateral events in the near future. “Belarus is committed not only to fulfilling our agreed-upon plans but also to exploring new, promising areas of cooperation,” Pavel Muraveiko noted. 

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Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko has arrived in Dushanbe. In Tajikistan’s capital city the Belarusian leader will take part in a session of the CIS Heads of State Council on 10 October, BelTA has learned.

Tajikistan Prime Minister Kokhir Rasulzoda, Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maxim Ryzhenkov, Ambassador of Belarus to Tajikistan Viktor Denisenko, and other officials welcomed Aleksandr Lukashenko at the Dushanbe airport.

Apart from that, children wearing national costumes greeted Aleksandr Lukashenko not only in their native tongue but also in Belarusian. The participation of an honor guard company in the welcome ceremony added to the solemnity of the event. The airport itself was decorated with floral installations in the shape of the flags of the countries that will be represented at the CIS Heads of State Council session.

BelTA reported earlier that about 20 items will be offered for consideration of the CIS heads of state. In view of the organization’s 35th anniversary that is due in 2026 plans have been made to consider a series of initiatives aimed at reinforcing the organization’s international positioning, in particular, initiatives on creating the CIS Plus format and on granting the CIS observer status to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Aleksandr Lukashenko was previously quoted as saying that Belarus welcomes the initiative to launch the CIS Plus format as a new platform of multilateral cooperation of the Commonwealth of Independent States with international partners. The Belarusian leader made the relevant statement in Minsk on 30 September at a meeting with heads of the government delegations, which were taking part in sessions of the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council and the CIS Heads of Government Council.

The agenda of the Dushanbe session of the CIS Heads of State Council also includes matters concerning energy security, cooperation in defense, in border security, and in fight against transboundary crime.

Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maxim Ryzhenkov talked to reporters about peculiarities and the significance of the upcoming summit. According to the official, the event is significant not only as a negotiating venue for likeminded individuals, for those, who lead the CIS states, build their independence in similar conditions, and therefore organizes cooperation within the framework of this international organization in a range of cooperation avenues. On the sidelines of the summit the heads of state will have opportunities for bilateral meetings and for discussing relations between countries.

The minister of foreign affairs pointed out that the Commonwealth of Independent States was founded nearly 35 years ago and since then has acquired traits of a serious international organization. Nevertheless, the organization keeps developing and a number of facts confirm it. In particular, the expansion of opportunities for new participants and the status of other states under the Commonwealth of Independent States will be discussed during the forthcoming summit.

“Decisions on more serious international positioning of the CIS will be made. Cooperation with other regional organizations will be discussed as well as giving the observer status to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization,” Maxim Ryzhenkov stressed.

Apart from that, a regular session of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Commonwealth of Independent States is scheduled to take place in Dushanbe on 9 October. Key items concerning the enhancement of multilateral interaction within the framework of the Commonwealth are on the session’s agenda.

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