Karanik to head NAS following Lukashenko’s appointment: science needs to be raised to higher level
Belarusian science needs to be raised to a higher level – as stated by President of Belarus Aleksandr Lukashenko while making personnel decisions today, May 22nd
The Head of State appointed Deputy Prime Minister Vladimir Karanik Chairman of the Presidium of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus. Setting tasks for the new head, Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasised, “We really need (and we should not offend academics and the Academy of Sciences) to raise science as a whole to a higher level. We need young, promising, but at the same time experienced people. Of all the candidates offered to me for consideration, I have chosen you, Vladimir Stepanovich. I know that scientists will appreciate this decision, and this must be taken into account. I am taking this in view.”
The President thanked Vladimir Karanik for accepting the proposal and ‘withstanding the personnel intricacies’. The Belarusian leader emphasised his experience and knowledge, which Mr. Karanik gained during his work as a minister and the Grodno Region Governor.
Aleksandr Lukashenko noted, “Science is an extremely important element for us, we will not be able to progress without science.”
The Belarusian leader added that, during his meeting with the Chinese delegation led by Vice Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China Liu Guozhong, the parties discussed co-operation, which, according to the Chinese side, should be based on serious tasks and innovative contracts, “Differently speaking, giant China – which is actually a global leader – does not think that its and our development should be based on some ordinary, simple matters. Innovative products are needed in order to compete. Otherwise, what is the need in creating something?”
According to the Head of State, Belarusian scientists can do a lot. Addressing Vladimir Karanik, the Belarusian leader noted, “I think that – given your experience, knowledge and strong character – we can do a lot. At the same time, the Academy of Sciences also needs to take a close look at its personnel and development plans. You know them. Therefore, I really hope that you will succeed in this work.”
