Lukashenko calls to reduce urban-rural gap without erasing village identity

Alexander Lukashenko has tasked the government to minimize differences between urban and rural life, while preserving the identity of rural areas. During a working visit to Vileyka district in Minsk region, the President emphasized the development of key rural settlements — agrotowns and larger villages. He stressed the need for decent infrastructure, housing, jobs, and social facilities in rural areas. Lukashenko also addressed rural trade, stating that villages must be properly served if the state expects anything from them. He promised to consider the interests of retail networks, acknowledging they cannot operate at a loss, but added that if they profit in big cities, they should also serve smaller villages.