MINSK, 30 October (BelTA) – Further optimization of the Belarusian army should be aimed at improving the quality state of the armed forces. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko made the statement during the conference for Belarusian army officers on 30 October, BelTA has learned.
Alexander Lukashenko pointed out that the Belarusian army has been greatly reduced since Belarus gained independence. The army's strength has been gradually reduced from 250,000 to 65,000 people without any shocks. “We have reached our optimal number. It is an answer to those, who come up with terrible proposals for reforming the economy these days. It was just like that back then,” noted the head of state.
Alexander Lukashenko continued by saying that the optimization process should go on. “I would like the composition of all kinds of managerial and support agencies to be revised once again. The revision should be used to reinforce combat elements. Events in Ukraine have demonstrated the importance of combat elements capable of carrying out their missions promptly,” said the President. He went on saying that structural changes have to be implemented while the numbers have to be preserved.
The head of state remarked it is necessary to get rid of vehicles and property, which are no longer fit for military purposes. However, it has to be done wisely, at a profit. Apart from that, it is necessary to continue optimizing army spending and reducing the stock of disused armaments and materiel.
“Let me remind you that military spending has to be thoroughly calculated. We cannot afford spending as much money on defense as, for instance, Russia does. We don't need that. We don't have that kind of money and will never have,” said the President. Alexander Lukashenko stressed that the Defense Ministry should persistently follow the policy of quality changes in the army and personnel training.
