Golovchenko on NSSD 2040 project: transformation of thinking required
Belarus needs a comprehensive transformation not only of the economy, but also of thinking, based on the use of big data management model, artificial intelligence, neural networks and additive technologies – as stated by Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko during a meeting of the Council of Ministers Presidium, which considered the draft National Strategy for Sustainable Development (NSSD) until 2040
According to the PM, the work on the strategy has been underway since 2023, and a special interdepartmental working group was formed for this purpose. The strategy submitted for consideration will serve as a basis for the socio-economic development programme for the next five years, the concept of which will be considered later, tentatively in April.
“The document defines the direction of the country’s development on a fifteen-year horizon and the points of concentration of resources to achieve the set goals. This document should simultaneously ensure national security of the state, as well as create conditions for sustainable development and achievement of high living standards of the population. From these positions I propose to evaluate this document,” the PM noted.
According to Mr. Golovchenko, the world today is on the path of deglobalisation. He pointed out that there are so-called trade wars, markets are being closed, and protectionism is becoming the dominant strategy. New blocs are being created, which are actively forming new standards and rules, introducing the basis for the development of their own technologies.
“Given the structure of our economy, it is obvious that accelerated development of innovation and the introduction of digital technologies in all areas of the state’s life are key for us. Because it is no longer possible to respond to the global challenges that already exist and those that will arise in the near future with traditional measures. In fact, a comprehensive transformation is required not only of the economy, but also of thinking, based on the use of big data management models, artificial intelligence, neural networks, and additive technologies. Accordingly, a revision of approaches to training for the new economy is also required. In this connection, I would like to hear separately in the report what long-term approaches to the formation of an intellectual economy are laid out in the draft strategy. Are they sufficient to reach the necessary level of competitiveness and ensure sustainable qualitative development?” the Head of Government emphasised.
The PM noted that there are other areas of work on the agenda that are of global importance and require close attention.
“They are not new. These are the questions of demography, ecology and the balance of resources. How will we stabilise the population and ensure sustainable demographic development? What measures will be taken to implement the concept of active longevity and develop the so-called silver economy, oriented towards a certain share of the elderly in society? Target benchmarks in the environmental sphere should be the widespread introduction of the principles of circular economy and the development of targeted infrastructure,” Mr. Golovchenko said.
The PM also noted that the strategy contains indicators that are planned to be achieved by 2040, “The figures are quite ambitious. The GDP, investments and exports should actually double. The share of the digital economy should triple. The share of high-tech derivatives is to rise up to 50 percent, while life expectancy is to increase up to 80 and a half years. I would therefore like to hear how work will be organised to achieve these goals. In your opinion, do you think there are enough resources for this – both human, technological and financial? It is especially important whether the vertical is ready for their implementation and how systematically the regions and government agencies are involved in this work. It is very important that this strategy has become a really working document and a guide to action for everyone”.
