MINSK, 10 February (BelTA) - Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko suggested setting up centers of attraction for all religions in the country as he met with representatives of religious denominations in Minsk on 10 February, BelTA learned.
“There’s one more topic that has been on my mind lately and that I live by when I think about our religious development, interfaith development. You know that this year we are finishing the restoration of our Orthodox shrine - Zhirovichi Monastery, churches, communities. I would like it to be a beautiful center of Orthodoxy. In this regard, I propose to set up appropriate centers for all denominations. Think about it and make proposals please,” In this regard, I suggest setting up appropriate centers for the denominations that we have in Belarus,” Aleksandr Lukashenko noted.
According to him, these should be spacious and accessible places for believers . The president assured that the state will lend a helping hand to other denominations in the same way it helps the Orthodox Church. “We will definitely help,” he stated.
“You see, there are many temples. But there should be the most important one that will attract people not only from Belarus, not only the neighboring countries but also from far abroad. So think about it and make suggestions. Together with the society, our people (I think they will support such an idea) will set up such centers of attraction for believers, no matter what denomination they belong to. You are all equally dear to the state and to me. I will do everything to ensure that you live in peace and harmony, as you do today, so that you do not look awry at each other,” the head of state emphasized.
Aleksandr Lukashenko admitted that he is proud for the inter-confessional peace in Belarus. “There is no such peace in any other country. We should cement it with these centers. This is the idea I have. If any leader of a religious denomination thinks otherwise, please tell us. We will take note of your decision and proposals,” the president added.
Summing up the meeting, the head of state once again recalled his proposal to create religious centers in Belarus. “Not necessarily in Minsk. Out of Minsk is a better option. Some denominations already have their representative offices in Minsk. Those denominations that don't have them should think about it and we will help build them. The centers that I mentioned are a good idea where people can come freely, without elbowing each other. Think about it. I am not saying that the state will undertake all the expenses. But we are ready to play the main role and help create such centers in the next five years,” Aleksandr Lukashenko noted.
He said he intends to visit Zhirovichi in the summer and see the results of the restoration of the Holy Dormition Zhirovichi Monastery. “The Catholic Church, Muslims, Jews and others are welcome to follow suit. We will mobilize society and people. So think about this proposal, it would be a good result of our conversation,” the Belarusian leader summarized.
