MINSK, 12 September (BelTA) – Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko confessed his affection for potatoes during a conversation with Minsk residents on 12 September, BelTA has learned.
The topic arose after the president visited the renovated Loshitsa complex in Minsk, where historic buildings now house cafés, a hotel, and a ceremonial hall.
Inspired by the beauty of this site, a young artist from Minsk, Yevgeniya, created a painting and decided to present it to Aleksandr Lukashenko. He gladly accepted the gift, promising to display it at the Palace of Independence.
In return, the president gave the girl some sweet treats, but didn’t stop there. “I was going to offer you a painting, but I don’t know how to paint,” he joked. “I’ll think of something to give you, like what I give to my colleagues - potatoes.” He then instructed that a large sack of potatoes be delivered to her as a gift.
He asked the young artist whether she liked potatoes. Upon receiving an enthusiastic “yes”, he admitted that he did too. “I’m crazy about them. I sinned yesterday and ate some,” the president said referring to a diet he is trying to follow.
The head of state also shared that Belarusian scientists have developed a new potato variety. “We need to distribute it so people can grow it in their gardens. If someone has a dacha or garden, I can send some over,” he said. “Seed potatoes cannot be given out freely. But for you [referring to the young artist] I’ll send food-grade ones. They’re delicious, especially fried.”
He encouraged everyone else to buy potatoes at the upcoming autumn fairs in the Belarusian capital: “The best potatoes are there. Come and see for yourself - the prices are reasonable.”
As it was previously reported, while talking to Minsk residents, Aleksandr Lukashenko remarked that plenty of potatoes have been grown in Belarus to fully satisfy the population’s demand. “This year’s harvest is good. We will have potatoes,” the president assured.
The same applies to grain, with the total harvest expected to reach around 11 million tonnes. “It is quite a lot. Few countries boast gathering so much grain per capita. It means we will have bread,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.
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