Lukashenko outlined authorities-people social contract focusing on fair prices, rising incomes and increasing jobs
The increase in the number of jobs and incomes of the population should become a key marker for the Government when implementing the goals set for 2023 – as noted by the President of Belarus, Aleksandr Lukashenko, at today’s meeting of the Council of Ministers on the results of the economy in 2022 and the solution of urgent tasks of socio-economic development this year
The President reminded the meeting participants that, in two and a half years, they will have to report to the people on how the five-year programme has been implemented, “If it is failed, no ordinary worker will need excuses about difficult times and draconian sanctions. Therefore, an increase in the number of jobs and incomes of the population should become a key marker for the Government in the implementation of the goals set for this year.”
The Head of State noted that, in December, a real wage growth (100.6 percent) was achieved, and the dynamics preserved in early 2023 (101.6 percent). “Actually, this is not the merit of qualitative changes in the economy: this is a consequence of the price policy adjustments. The payment of traditional corporate bonuses at the end of the year has also contributed to the statistics. We need to think about where to take reserves so that wage growth does not stop," Aleksandr Lukashenko set the task, adding that special attention should be paid to the fight against inflation, “Prices are the number one issue for people. Such a rise – that was registered last autumn – should never happen again. You might use whatever means you want – monetary, regulatory, administrative — to maintain the agreed margin of 7 percent. This figure should be a red line, and it should be understood by businesses, manufacturers and trade. Otherwise, the most severe measures will be taken. We will not allow lawlessness. Prices should be fair.”
At the same time, a wide range of products on sale available to people at stores is an equally important condition, and the Belarusian leader emphasised, “There should be enough food, medicines, goods for everyday and household needs, and so on. The priority is to be given to domestic manufacturers.”
In this regard, the Ministry of Anti-Monopoly Regulation and Trade, the Agriculture Ministry, Belgospishcheprom and local authorities should ensure uninterrupted supplies of goods, including food, to the domestic market – while exporting the surplus. The Head of State directed to work with subordinate organisations in terms of cost revision and reduction.
“If you put things in order here, you will work successfully even under the most stringent regulation. People will understand us, and they will be happy. You should always remember that all social obligations dealing with the improvement of Belarusians’ standard of living must be fulfilled unconditionally. This is a social contract between the authorities and the people," Aleksandr Lukashenko summed up.
