Deputy Head for Science at the Economic Research Institute of the Belarusian Economy Ministry Natalya Berchenko revealed experts' proposals concerning the regional development strategy during a seminar on 4 March, BelTA has learned.

According to Natalya Berchenko, the existing regional development problems stem from the small scale and poor effectiveness of the economic activity and its territorial distribution. “The Economy Ministry suggests a way to solve the current problems in the conditions of limited resources. This is a balanced development strategy. Its centerpiece is an active area-specific policy which provides for determining new centers of economic growth and their even distribution, increasing competitiveness and effectiveness of the economic activity with the help of targeted investments into major local industries, and improving living standards,” she said.

In addition to targeted investments, the main tools to implement the strategy include interaction and cooperation between the branches of power and involvement of the key groups of regional communities.

According to Natalya Berchenko, in order to ensure sustainable development of backward districts, the focus should be placed on diversification of the economy with the help of local resources, their deep processing and systemic use. Other important aspects include good transport infrastructure, advanced communications, new social standards, broader use of flexible employment, services, and promotion of local brands.

The Economy Ministry with support of the Minsk Oblast Executive Committee has organized the seminar “Development of Regions of the Republic of Belarus: Approaches for 2021-2025” on 4 March. Taking part in the event are representatives of government authorities, the Council of the Republic, the National Assembly, and various executive committees. The aim of the seminar is to discuss approaches to regional development in the next five-year period, put forward proposals regarding the system of program and forecast documents, indicators of regional development, and possible practical decisions to foster regional development taking into account major industries and potential of every district.