By Alexander Loikovich
The Ministry is showing interest in outfitting rescuers at a lower cost than it pays for Russian and Western analogues. “Previously, we purchased fire-fighters’ uniforms from other states. However, we plan to shift to Belarusian uniforms,” Azerbaijan’s Minister for Emergency Situations, Kemaleddin Heydarov, informed journalists in Minsk.
During his stay, a comprehensive plan for 2011-2013 was approved, regarding co-operation between the Belarusian and Azerbaijani emergency ministries. According to Mr. Heydarov, the document should create conditions for closer collaboration between our two states. He also appreciates the high level of training for rescuers in Belarus, saying, “This year, the first Azerbaijani alumni will graduate from the Command and Engineering Institute of Belarus’ Emergency Ministry. They are receiving knowledge and skill, which are in great demand in their homeland.”
In turn, Belarus’ Emergency Minister, Enver Bariev, stressed that co-operation in educational and other spheres between the two states’ ministries is unprecedented: in its intensity, efficiency, results and friendly approach.
Over 200 Azerbaijani students are currently studying at the Belarusian Command and Engineering Institute. Belarusian specialists are also helping train staff for Azerbaijan’s Academy of Emergency Situations. A team of Azerbaijani young rescuers is a regular participant of the international camp-fire annually organised in Belarus.
