An archive photo
MINSK, 16 December (BelTA) – In a new episode of BelTA’s Nation Speaks project, national security expert and official representative of the public association Belaya Rus Aleksandr Tishchenko discussed national security issues that will be addressed at the second session of the VII Belarusian People's Congress.
At the first session of the Congress in April last year, the Military Doctrine and the National Security Concept were adopted. “The second session moves into the practical dimension. If in the previous session we discussed the system of views and principles, now we have a concrete five-year defense plan. This means we clearly assess the situation, understand the circumstances and know what needs to be done,” Aleksandr Tishchenko noted.
The situation at the borders is not becoming easier, he stressed. “Earlier, the threats were hypothetical, but today they are becoming real. There is already a war on our southern borders, while our western and northern neighbors are in a state of military hysteria and preparing for conflict. As the president said, if someone is preparing for something, it means they are counting on it,” the expert emphasized. “The concept and the doctrine were adopted in a timely manner, considering all the risks, challenges, and threats that surround us.”
Everything ultimately comes down to the economy. The history of wars shows that only strong economies prevail, Aleksandr Tishchenko pointed out. “The Soviet Union, which stood up to all of Europe due to its economic strength, is a clear example. Today, we are forced to pay even more attention to our economy due to threats from our neighbors and the West. The first thing they try to destroy through sanctions and pressure is our economy, but the economy is the key to our survival and ability to overcome challenges. Unlike our Western opponents, who seek masters, we seek partners. Sanctions don't stop us: they give us a starting point to move forward,” he said with confidence.
Photos by Andrei Sinyavsky/ BelTA
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