Lukashenko: on Belarus’ strong position in the global potash market
“The launch of the Petrikov Mining and Processing Plant strengthens Belarus’ position in the global potash market,” the Head of State said on visiting the facility
“There are enough potash ore reserves here for 100 years to come. It’s a whole century. Potassium is a brand of our country and we are lucky to have so rich reserves of ‘red gold’. The demand for it is huge and is annually growing,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.
According to the President, the world faces a great need in food, “About one billion people are malnourished, half a billion are hungry: there is not enough food. It is produced by our dear land, our soil and no food is possible without fertilisers. Therefore, the demand for fertilisers in general and potash, in particular, is growing worldwide – and the trend will continue. We are ready to help, that's why we are building these giant facilities.”
Aleksandr Lukashenko reminded that Belaruskali is one of the leading players in the world market of potash fertilisers, producing and selling more than 20 percent of its volume. “Most importantly, Belaruskali is the most reliable partner – I’d not be afraid of these words since I’m well aware of the production and exports of potash fertilisers. We have never let down and will not let down our partners – even under the conditions that the collective West creates for us today,” he stressed, adding, “Such giants as China, Brazil, India and many other countries are interested in potash fertilisers from Belarus today. The world is great. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the issue of providing food, and hence fertilisers, has become even more acute on the planet.”
It’s difficult for Belarusians to believe that the problem of hunger is possible in the 21st century, but this is true. Aleksandr Lukashenko explained, “Therefore, with the commissioning of the Petrikov Mining and Processing Plant we are strengthening our position in the global potash market.”
The Head of State thanked all those involved in the construction of the new facility: designers, engineers, builders and miners. It took almost ten years to complete the work. $1,250m was spent – less than originally envisaged by the project. Moreover, only Belarusian companies were involved in the process, while the share of domestic equipment makes almost 90 percent. “I’m really proud of all of you, excellent specialists and professional workmen!” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.
