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"Minsk-2006" Basketball Players Became the Champions of Belarus

Mon May 14 21:00:00 2012 GMT

The "Minsk-2006" have again become the winners of the national championship in basketball.

According to the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent, in the final tournament involving teams Quartet, which was held in Minsk, the team of Andrey Krivonos first beat "Minsk-2006-2" (87:76), and then in the game for "gold" they overpowered "Grodno-93" - 97:74.

The most useful in duels were Justin Knox and Alexander Kudryavtsev.

In the match for third place of the "Minsk-2006-2" were stronger than the Vitebsk "Rubon" - 85:74.

BSU Lyceum Students Earned a Diploma at the Prestigious Physicists’ Tournament in Austria

Wed May 9 21:00:00 2012 GMT

Lyceum students of Belarusian State University won the diploma of the third degree at the Austrian Young Physicists’ Tournament which was held in the ancient town of Leoben in Styria federal land.

As it was reported to the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent in the press service of the Belarusian State University, the team consisted of tenth-formers Artem BOURY, Stanislav LATUSHKO, Alexey MAKAREVICH, Pavel USTICHENKO and Darya STEPANENKO. The schoolchildren were trained by students of the Faculty of Radio Physics and Computer Technologies Ivan SYULZHIN, Stanislav KRASULIN and Andrey KLISHIN, student of the Department of Physics.

The tournament was attended by 13 teams of schoolchildren from Austria, Belarus, Iran, Russia, Slovakia and Turkey. This annual event is held in English.

Austrian Young Physicists’ Tournament is a team competition of senior pupils in their ability to solve complicated problems, present and defend their results in scientific discussions. The organizer of the tournament is the Research Forum of Young Physicists (AYPT). The judges of the championship are professors, deans and lecturers of leading European universities. To make these intelligent competitions more interesting and important, foreign teams are annually invited to the national Austrian tournament.

BSU will collaborate with the University of Brasilia

Sun May 6 21:00:00 2012 GMT

An agreement on cultural, scientific and academic cooperation between Belarusian State University and the University of the Brazilian capital - the city of Brasilia has been signed by the rectors of both universities – Prof. Sergei Ablameyko and Prof. Jose Geraldo de Sosa, Jr.

As it was reported to the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent in the press service of the Belarusian State University, the document provides for the exchange of students and teachers, participation in conferences and symposia of mutual interest, as well as the development of joint research programs. The agreement was signed to expand the export of educational services with the assistance of the Embassy of Belarus in the Federative Republic of Brazil.

The University of Brasilia was founded in 1962. It is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Brazil funded by the government. Currently, the University has more than 30 thousand students and postgraduates. The teaching staff consists of 1,757 people, administrative staff - about 2,500. Tuition is free for both Brazilians and foreigners.

Brasilia was built (1957-1960) by order of President Juscelino Kubitschek of Brazil specifically as the capital. It was built in the central part of the country. The master plan was made by Architect Lucio Costa who used the ideas of Charles Le Corbusier, French architect of Swiss origin, a pioneer of modernism, a representative of International Style architecture. The main architect of the administrative and public buildings was Oscar Niemeyer.

Internet portal of the Minsk City Executive Committee received an award of the International Specialized Exhibition "TIBO-2012" (photo)

Wed Apr 25 21:00:00 2012 GMT

Web-portal of the Minsk City Executive Committee (www.minsk.gov.by) has been named the best online resource at the International Specialized Exhibition "TIBO-2012" in nomination "The city, regional and district executive committees".

"The developer of the site is the Information Technology Center of the Minsk City Executive Committee”, Sergei Hilman, Head of the Main Department of Ideological Work of the Minsk City Executive Committee, told the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent. According to S. Hilman, the assessment of sites was based on the following criteria: content, structure and navigation features, visual design, functionality, interactivity.

It will be recalled that this year the competition for the best Belarusian Internet site was carried out by 15 categories. The number of applications reached a record figure - more than 550 (as against 407 in 2011). Since 2003 the competition has attracted 4.8 thousand Belarusian Internet resources.

The award of the International Specialized Exhibition "TIBO-2012" is a professional prize which is annually awarded to networking works created in the Belarusian sector of the Internet for significant socio-cultural, technological and artistic achievements in the field of information, culture, art and education.

Belarus has obtained the right to host the European championship in boxing in 2013

Fri Apr 20 21:00:00 2012 GMT

European Boxing Championships 2013 will be held at "Minsk-Arena". Tentative dates for the European Championships 2013 in Minsk: from May 17 to May 26. This decision was taken at the meeting of the Executive Committee of the European Confederation of Boxing in Trabzon, Turkey, on 19 April. In voting for the right to take the continental forum Belarus took the lead over Holland. Serbia was also interested in hosting the tournament but before the vote it withdrew its candidacy. According to the Belarusian Boxing Federation, a qualitative presentation of the application for the future tournament prepared by the Belarusian side, perfect conditions for holding competitions and receiving guests and participants of the European championship played a decisive role in choosing Minsk for hosting the tournament.

Railwaymen of Belarus, Poland, Russia and Ukraine have agreed on interaction in the organization of transport to ensure the European Football Championship Euro-2012

Tue Apr 17 21:00:00 2012 GMT

A Memorandum of Understanding on interaction of railway administrations and carriers of Belarus, Poland, Russia and Ukraine in the organization of transport to ensure the European Football Championship Euro-2012 has been signed in Warsaw.

As reported to the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent in the press center of the Belarusian Railways, the document was signed by First Deputy Head of the Belarusian Railways Vladimir Mikhailyuk, General Director of the JSC "Federal Passenger Company" Mikhail Akulov, Head of the Chief Passenger Management of the State Administration of Railway Transport of Ukraine Alexander Ivanko, Chairman of the Board of JSC "PKP Intercity" Janusz Malinowski.

Participation of the Belarusian Railways in the organization of passenger transportation is accounted for by the participation of the Russian national team in the matches of the European Football Championship which will be held in Poland.

According to the Memorandum, the parties have agreed to organize additional trains to transport fans between the towns of Belarus, Poland, Russia and Ukraine during the tournament, organize interaction on the optimization of customs and border procedures, and provide quality passenger service. All trains will meet international standards of passenger traffic.

To organize the transportation of passengers to the European Championship the JSC тАЬRussian RailwaysтАЭ, the JSC "Federal Passenger Company", the Belarusian Railways and JSC "PKP Intercity" have agreed that in the days of matches involving the national team of Russia there will be 7 pairs of additional passenger trains: one train Moscow - Wroclaw / Warsaw, two trains Moscow - Warsaw and four trains Moscow - Terespol for transfer service. Besides they are going to add cars to the scheduled trains.

The Ark with Great Christian Holy Things to Be Brought to Minsk

Sun Apr 15 21:00:00 2012 GMT

The Ark with the holy things of the Greek monastery Simonopetra from Mount Athos is to be brought to Minsk for the faithful to worship on April 29.

As it was reported to the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent in the Minsk diocese of the Belarusian Orthodox Church, among the relics there will be particle of the precious Holy Cross, relics of Saint Barbara and the equal to the apostles Mary Magdalene.

By decision of the Synod of the Belarusian Exarchate the Ark will be in Minsk till May 5 - in the church of St Mary Magdalene (St. Kiseleva, 42), where access to the holy things will be open around the clock.

In addition to Minsk the inhabitants of Bobruisk, Mogilev, Vitebsk, Grodno will also be able to worship the relics till May 13.

As it is known, Holy Cross is the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified. It is one of the instruments of Passion (suffering) of Christ and belongs to the main Christian relics. Throughout its history, the tree of the Holy Cross was divided into particles of different sizes, which can now be found in many churches and monasteries in the world.

Memorial composition to be installed at the entrance to "Oktyabrskaya" metro station by 11 April

Wed Mar 28 21:00:00 2012 GMT

Memorial sign "River of Memory" will be installed at the entrance to the "Oktyabrskaya" metro station by 11 April. Work on the composition is almost complete. ‘The main idea of the composition is not only to recall the sad events of April 11, 2011, but also leave a message to future generations that they should value every moment of life’, Sculptor Konstantin Selikhanov, author of the composition, told the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent. The composition is made in the form of a bronze plate which is imprinted with 15 waves (according to the number of those killed during the Minsk metro tragedy). On the crests of the waves there are the names of the dead. The sign is 2 m 30 cm high. The plate to be installed in a small recess at the entrance to the metro station will be framed with two bright marble walls.

Youth IT-Incubator Is Set Up In the Capital

Tue Mar 20 21:00:00 2012 GMT

A youth IT-incubator which is meant to combine high-tech enterprises founded by entrepreneurs under the age of 31 has been set up in the capital.

This was reported to the "Minsk-News" Agency correspondent by the project's organizers - representatives of the Communal Unitary Enterprise "Youth Social Service".

According to experts, on the areas of the Youth Social Service there are currently five specialized companies working in the field of IT-technologies. 12 new jobs have been created. It is also expected that during 2012-2013 on the basis of the Youth Social Service they will create a tourist, female, construction and industrial incubators, as well as an incubator for international students.

As a small business incubator (SBI), the Communal Unitary Enterprise "Youth Social Service" was registered in 2009. The main objective of the enterprise is to develop and support youth business initiatives at their initial stage. Currently the SBI has about 50 companies created by young people.

Minskers to Represent Belarus at the World Cup of Sport Dancing in Wheelchairs

Thu Mar 15 21:00:00 2012 GMT

A major international tournament on sport dancing in wheelchairs will be held April 6-8 in Holland. The competition will gather professionals from more than 20 countries, Valery Kolomiets, Chairman of the public association "Belarusian Fund for Athletes with Disabilities" told the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent. Belarus will be represented by four pairs. Three of them are from Minsk. They are: multiple winners of world and European championships Veronica MAKHORTOVA and Artyom LUNTSEVICH, Anna SIROTYUK and Igor KULESHOV, as well as similar rank tournament debutants Darya KULESH and Michael ZHIGALOV. The duo from Mogilev - masters of international class, Irina MOZHAROVA and Konstantin SHEYDA will join them. All the dancers are students of the dance center created under the public association "Belarusian Fund for Athletes with Disabilities".

Minsk Waterpark to Yield in Its Size Only to That in Berlin

Wed Mar 14 21:00:00 2012 GMT

They have opened lines of credit for the purchase of equipment for the water park of Minsk. This was announced by the Chairman of Minsk City Executive Committee Nikolai Ladutko at a press-conference in the City Hall.

"In its size our water park will yield only to that in Berlin, but ticket prices will be cheaper than those in Poland" - he said. – "We believe that once the construction is financed from the budget, the cost of the tickets must be loyal and reasonable".

Nikolai Ladutko noted that the construction of the water park will be carried out in due time.

"President-hotel" Will Receive Its First Guests in the Second Half of this Year

Tue Mar 13 21:00:00 2012 GMT

"President-hotel", the construction of which is to be soon completed on the corner of Kirov and Engels streets in the capital will receive its first guests in the second half of this year. Now they are carrying on assembling and finishing work in the new complex, Nikolai ZHURAVSKY, Director of the republican unitary enterprise "Hotel "Minsk" the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent. After their completion, they will begin to install and commission equipment and furniture.

The new hotel will consist of two buildings (11 and 9 floors), 154 rooms, including VIP-room of 500 square meters with a private sauna. The hotel will house three restaurants, five bars, three banquet halls. To arrange major events, there will also be an amphitheater for 600 people. There will also be SPA-center, two swimming pools (10 and 25 m), Turkish bath, a billiard-room, a three-level underground parking.

Foreign students will have extra incentive to choose BSUIR

Mon Mar 5 21:00:00 2012 GMT

Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radio Electronics is interested in admitting foreign nationals.

In 2011 the university earnings from the export of educational services made up 713 thousand dollars, which was 30% more than in 2010. This was announced by the BSUIR Rector Mikhail Batura at the sitting of the Sovietsky District Administration dedicated to the results of socio-economic development in 2011 and projections for the current year.

Today, the University has over 400 foreign students – nationals from neighbouring and distant countries (mostly from Turkmenistan and Nigeria). The language barrier is not a serious obstacle as training in two specialties is arranged in English. In 2012/2013 academic year foreign students will be offered five specialties.

In the days of the Ice Hockey World Championship - 2014 in Minsk there will be about 20 thousand visitors

Tue Feb 28 21:00:00 2012 GMT

In the days of the Ice Hockey World Championship - 2014 in Minsk there will be about 20 thousand visitors. This was announced at a press conference by Alexey Prokopovich, Head of the Department of Physical Culture, Sport and Tourism of Minsk City Executive Committee held on February 28^th.

"I am confident that we will hold the Ice Hockey World Championship at the highest level. To study the experience of other countries we have visited several similar tournaments where we observed the organization of events within the arenas, as well as the way they worked with the guests who came from other states to international forums. Getting ready for the World Championship-2014 we first proceeded from the probable number of guests of the tournament. According to our forecast of guests at the Championship, there will be around 20 thousand people. Hence we are planning to provide accommodation to this number of people" - said Alexey Prokopovich.

The Department of Consumer and Hotel Services of Minsk City Executive Committee has prepared a schematic map of hotels and halls of residence, including sports camps, sanatoria and health resort centers, which are located not far away from the city boundaries. "In accordance with this map we have estimated how many people can be accommodated there. The estimation was made with regard to the type of accommodation, beginning from the halls of residence and ending with 4-star hotels. The next step is connected with the set of services we can provide the World Championship guests with including meals, information services in the form of Wireless Internet service, "- said the Head of the Department of Physical Culture, Sport and Tourism of Minsk City Executive Committee.

Speaking of catering, Alexey Prokopovich said that it will be possible to have meals not only in hotels, but also inside the arenas. "Furthermore, we assume that near each arena there will be a traditional camp for fans. Those who won’t get into the arena, will be able to watch the games live on big screens. These screens will be installed not only near the "Minsk-Arena" and "Chizhovka Arena" complexes, but in some important parts of the city’s center, which are always overcrowded - near the Palace of Sports, the Palace of the Republic, the National Library. Meals will be supplied by different catering establishments, including both Belarusian and foreign cuisine. Now we are working on a schematic map on which we will indicate catering establishments to be located in areas of public events that will take place during the World Championship".

Another important task connected with the Ice Hockey World Championship-2014 is the preparation of transport infrastructure, including meeting visitors at the airport, railway and bus stations. It is also necessary to be ready to receive guests who will be arriving in their own cars. "We need to thoroughly plan the work of the transport infrastructure, taking into account that new road junctions will be built and that there will be an electric train reaching the main arena. The map will also contain the routes of trolley buses, buses, fixed-route taxis, one can use to get to arenas from the hotels and the city center", - said Alexey Prokopovich.

Excursions to be offered to the guests of the World Championship will also be reflected on a special map-scheme. "The way how our visitors will spend their leisure-time is also very important. We are going to develop pedestrian and transport routes for excursions to be guided by experts speaking foreign languages. The Department of Culture of Minsk City Executive Committee will be in charge of the organization of cultural and entertaining activities. This will include folklore and theatrical presentations in crowded parts of the capital. Theaters and cinemas will also be at the service of the guests. We will have all necessary information about the participants in the presentations and the time they will be held. After all these maps are brought together, we will obtain a unique scenario of the Championship that will give our guests a clear picture of the services and events they will be offered. I do not think that such details are foreseen in all the countries that host world championships. Our goal is that every visitor must be fully informed both about the program of the Championship itself, and our capital,"- said Alexey Prokopovich.

He also recalled that recently Belarus Ice Hockey Federation had held a competition to choose an official travel agency for the Ice Hockey World Championship- 2014. The choice was made in favour of "TsentrKurort." In the next few days there will be a competition to choose the best ticket agency.

"At present we are preparing a presentation of the Ice Hockey World Championship-2014 which we would like to present at the time of the next world championships in Helsinki and Stockholm to be held on May 4-20. Our presentation materials will include everything I have just said at the press conference. We are going to Rene Fasel, President of the International Ice Hockey Federation, about the progress we have made in the preparation for the World Championship,"- said Alexei Prokopovich.

In 2013, the "Minsk-Arena" will be the venue of the Cycle Track World Championship which will involve athletes from about 50 countries. According to Alexei Prokopovich, the city authorities consider that this tournament will become a kind of rehearsal for the reception and accommodation of sports delegations numbering around five thousand people. "Of course, the number of fans to attend the Cycle Track World Championship won’t be as large as that at the Ice Hockey World Championship. This tournament might be of great interest to the residents of nearby countries where cycling is cultivated on the track, Lithuania and Poland in particular. But as for us, we will have a good opportunity to find the best way for receiving delegations of athletes and accommodating them in our hotels. We will have a chance to see the quality of the services our hotels are going to offer."- added Alexey Prokopovich.

The Ice Hockey World Championship is to be held in Minsk from May 9 to May 25, 2014.

Responding to a question about what losses may be incurred by Minsk, if the World Cup of Hockey 2014 for political reasons, will be moved to another country, Head of Physical Education, Sport and Tourism of the Minsk city executive committee ensured that no losses will be: "No damages will not be as all activities associated with construction and renovation of facilities built into the master plan of the city. And those adjustments that we make in connection with the reception of the World Hockey Championship, they are insignificant. in transportation often hear talk about the costs that The whole country is working on the championship in 2014. But these talks are baseless, because the whole financial part involved in accordance with the general plan of the city. What should be done, it will be done. Another thing is that for all of us should be the goal. This applies to any person, and the capital and the country. We have this goal - in 2014. To him we need a qualitative approach, including the infrastructure of the city".

According to him, now Minsk is ready to accommodate 20 thousand people, and about five thousand is a reserve.

The volume of profit, which may be obtained from the World Cup of hockey, Alexei Prokopovich call failed "this profit can not count, not a question of my competence. In the Belarusian Ice Hockey Federation created an organization that together with its partner International Ice Hockey Federation by" Infront "preparing the World Cup. It will address issues of advertising and distribution revenue. So this they need to ask. As for the money that gets the city from the reception, then this statistic we tamp, place where guests, impregnated, sell them a large number of services. Then it will be seen how much we spend and how much got it. But I just want to tell you that these championships are never at a loss for the right to conduct their struggle in all countries".

Hockey World Championship prepares to Minsk from 9 to May 25, 2014.

BSU and Fukushima University Signed an Agreement on Academic Exchanges

Mon Feb 27 21:00:00 2012 GMT

Belarusian State University and the University of the Japanese City of Fukushima have signed an agreement on academic exchanges.

As it was reported to the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent in the press service of the Belarusian State University, the agreement provides for joint educational and research programs and projects, exchanges of students and teachers, educational, methodical and scientific literature, organization of joint seminars and conferences.

Fukushima is a Japanese city and administrative center of Fukushima Prefecture. The population is about 300 thousand people.

Sergei KORNEEV of Minsk named the best boxer in Belarus in 2011

Mon Feb 20 21:00:00 2012 GMT

Sergei Korneev has been named the best boxer of the country in 2011. According to the information provided to the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent in the Belarusian Federation of boxing, the 23-year-old Minsker won bronze at the World Championships in Baku, and won the license for the London Olympics in 2012.

Citizens of Minsk - Konstantin Makhan'kov and Sergei Pytalev have been named as best coaches in Belarus in 2011. It is under the guidance of these coaches that Sergei Korneev has his training.

BSU, "LOTIS TII" Enterprise and Tokyo Instruments, Inc. Company to sign an agreement on cooperation in education, science and technology

Sun Feb 19 21:00:00 2012 GMT

An agreement on cooperation in the sphere of education, science and technology between the Belarusian State University, the joint Belarusian-Japanese enterprise "LOTIS TII", and Tokyo Instruments, Inc. Company will be signed this Tuesday in Minsk.

As reported to the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent in the press service of the Belarusian State University, the aim of the agreement is to develop collaborative research and training of specialists in the field of nanoscale systems, nanomaterials, nano-and biotechnology.

"LOTIS TII" Enterprise and Tokyo Instruments, Inc. Company are known for their joint development of modern scientific equipment. For example, one of them - a unique spectral-analytical complex allowing to carry out the Raman spectral and luminescent analysis of nano-and micron-sized structures - BSU acquired last year.

Training of highly skilled specialists and research in the field of nanomaterials, nano-and biotechnology will be coordinated by the Training and Research Center on Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology which has recently been established at BSU.

Skaters from 52 countries to take part in the World Junior Skating Championships

Sun Feb 19 21:00:00 2012 GMT

209 skaters from 52 countries are to come to our capital to participate in the World Junior Skating Championships. The competition among the young skaters will be held from February 27 to March 4 in the multifunctional cultural and sports complex "Minsk-Arena". As "Minsk-News" agency reports, this was declared today by Nikolai Ananiev, Head of the "Minsk-Arena" Complex, at the operative meeting in the Minsk City Executive Committee. The organizer of the competition is the public association "Skating Union of Belarus”. A figure skating tournament will take place on a planet scale in our country for the first time.

Skaters are to start arriving in Minsk on February 24. "Technical inspectors have already arrived in the capital. - said Nikolai Ananiev. - All services are ready for the championship, which will be held at the highest level." Tickets to the colorful spectacle were on sale one month before the championship.

Olga GOVORTSOVA of Minsk won the tennis tournament in the U.S.

Tue Feb 14 21:00:00 2012 GMT

Olga Govortsova of Minsk won singles tennis tournament with a prize fund of 100 thousand dollars in Midland (USA).

As it was reported to the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent in the Belarusian Tennis Federation, in the finals the Belarusian’s opponent was Magdalena Rybarikova of Slovakia. The match was very persistent, but still Govortsova was best - 6:3, 6:7 (6), 7-6 (5).

By December 2012 "Chizhovka Arena" to be iced over

Tue Jan 31 21:00:00 2012 GMT

It is planned that by December 2012 the cultural and entertainment and sports complex "Chizhovka Arena" will have been iced over, and by July 2013 they are going to complete the finishing work and landscaping.

The Chairman of Minsk City Executive Committee Nikolai Ladutsko set the builders this task at a meeting that was held today at the construction site of the project, "Minsk-news" Agency reports.

During the current month they plan to hold tenders for purchasing the necessary materials and equipment, as well as continue brickwork, steel erection, installation of monolithic slabs and the construction of electrical and heating systems.

It’s worth recalling that the cultural and recreational and sports complex will seat 8 thousand spectators. In 2014 the Ice Hockey World Championship matches will be held in the arena. Later, the arena will be used for holding home matches by one of the clubs of the capital. According to the complex design there will be two arenas: a large one for holding matches and a small one for training.

The capital's Lyceum and gymnasia students were a success at the International Mathematical Olympiad in Kazakhstan

Sun Jan 29 21:00:00 2012 GMT

Ilya ADAMKIN and Maria MANKIEVICH, students of the 11th form of Belarusian State University Lyceum, became the silver medalists in mathematics at the VIII International Zhautykov Olympiad in mathematics, physics and computer science. The Olympiad was held in the southern capital of Kazakhstan Almaty.

Besides, as it was reported to "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent in the press center of the Belarusian State University, "bronze" in mathematics was got by the eleventh-former Roman NADVODNYUK and the tenth-former DOVGYALO Elizabeth. The eleventh-former Yevgueny BEZRUKOV got a bronze medal in physics. As for team competition, this time Lyceum students did not participate. At the Olympiad Belarus was also represented by students of Gymnasium № 29, who won "silver" and "bronze" in physics and "bronze" in mathematics.

In total, participation in the Olympiad was taken by 343 students from Kazakhstan, Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Romania, Bulgaria, Indonesia, India, Mongolia, Afghanistan and Nigeria.

The International Zhautykov Olympiad was held in honor of the Kazakh academician and eminent mathematician Orymbek Zhautykov. That was a joint project of the Kazakhstan National Scientific and Practical Center "Daryn" and the Republican Specialized Physics and Mathematics Secondary Boarding School named after O. Zhautykov for gifted children. Intellectual competition is a continuation of the traditions of the Olympiads held at the time of the Soviet Union.

Darya Domracheva from Minsk won the race with mass start during the Biathlon World Cup in Antholz, Italy

Sun Jan 22 21:00:00 2012 GMT

At the stage of the Biathlon World Cup in Antholz, Italy, Darya Domracheva from Minsk won the race with mass start at 12.5 km, the "Minsk-news" agency reports. At the first shooting range our athlete missed two targets, but at the other three ranges she shot very accurately. As a result, she was 25.2 seconds ahead of Anastasia Kuzmina, representative of Slovakia, who became second, and 32.1 seconds ahead of Magdalena Neuner from Germany.

Note that the day before the quartet of Belarusian women was second in the relay race. Well, our biathletes were only 2.5 seconds down on the French.

Round-table discussion of the prospects for the development of the Institute for German Studies on the BSU basis in Minsk

Fri Jan 20 21:00:00 2012 GMT

The development of the Institute for German Studies (IGS), which in 2011 began its work at the Belarusian State University, and the plan of its activities for the near future were discussed in the capital at the roundtable.

The discussion was attended by representatives of the Institute, BSU leadership and German partners, including the German Academic Exchange Service, the Goethe Institute in Minsk, German Economic Club and the Delegation of German Economy in Belarus.

As it was reported to the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent in the press service of the Belarusian State University, it is planned that the IGS will work as a center of education, contributing to the development of study and research on German topics, skills training in accordance with German standards. In particular, together with German organizations of jobs fair and with the Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) they intend to organize summer school. It is to be arranged together with German lecturers - Courses for regional geographic topics. In addition, at the BSU there will be established German-training programs (on the basis of its faculties, as well as through distance learning in Germany with a short course lectures by German specialists). Organization of thematic study tours to Germany is also planned.

One of the important functions of the Institute for German Studies will be the development and strengthening of contacts with German partners, including their participation in joint meetings, events and festivals.

Scientist of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus got a prestigious international award

Sun Jan 8 21:00:00 2012 GMT

The scientific school founder in the area of heat pipes in Belarus, Head of the Laboratory of Porous Media of the Institute of Heat and Mass Transfer named after A.V Lykov of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) of Belarus, Doctor of Technical Sciences, Professor Leonard Vasiliev has been awarded George Grover’s Gold Medal.

As the "Minsk-News" agency reports the news was provided by the NAS press center. The award will be presented to the scientist at the 16th International Conference on Heat Pipes to be held in May in the French city of Lyon.

Leonard Vasiliev is the author of 14 monographs, including three collective monographs in English, of about 600 articles and papers, 218 patents, 12 international patents. Leonard Leonidovich is the BSSR State Prize winner, as well as the winner of the USSR Council of Ministers Prize, the Prize named after Academician A.V. Lykov, awarded by the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, the winner of the award of the outstanding Indian scientist A. Ramachandran, the winner of other awards for outstanding contributions to the development of science and technology of heat pipes.

Reference: The permanent scientific Committee on organization and holding of international conferences on Heat Pipes (Committee on International Heat Pipe Conferences) instituted Grover’s Medal to scientists who have made significant contributions to the two-phase heat transfer devices (heat pipes), and their manufacturing methods. The medal is named after the physicist George Grover, who initiated research in the field of heat pipes in the 60s of last century.

By the way, the first conference of the world’s leading experts in this field took place in 1973 in Stuttgart, Germany, and is held in different countries every two years.

In Minsk in 2011 the National list of historical and cultural heritage of the Republic of Belarus included 92 amenities

Wed Jan 4 21:00:00 2012 GMT

92 sites entered in the National list of historical and cultural heritage of the Republic of Belarus in Minsk in 2011. This information was provided to BelTA correspondent by Vitalina Rudikova, Head of the Department of Culture of Minsk City Executive Committee.

According to Vitalina Rudikova there is developed legislation which defines the procedures and activities in the field of historical and cultural heritage preservation. In Minsk in the near future they are going to adopt a regional program for the protection of historical and cultural heritage of the capital for 2012-2015.

Today 293 immovable objects of Minsk are on the National list of historical and cultural heritage of the Republic. This includes both individual buildings and structures, and systems - the historic center of Minsk (163 objects), buildings in K. Marx, Lenin, Kirov, Myasnikov streets, old wooden houses in North Lane, the National Technical University campus, Loshitsa estate and park facilities (ruins of chapel and a mill). Thus, together with the complexes the list of historical and cultural values of the capital includes 538 monuments of architecture, history, art and archeology, of which 143 dwelling houses are monuments of architecture, and apartment owners are also required to comply with the legislation.

Tangible heritage sites - monuments of architecture and urban design, history, archeology and art - are all around us in our everyday life. These are dwelling houses and office buildings, monuments, parks and cemetery landscapes, parks, churches, health care buildings, industrial facilities, bridges, mosaics and stained glass, tombs of famous people, hotels, areas related to the events of the First and Second World Wars, residential apartments, botanical gardens, theaters, museums, burial mounds of X-XI centuries and the archaeological layer in the historic center, the monument in Victory Square and the "Minsk - Hero City" obelisk. Monuments must be maintained in good condition, restored and rebuilt if necessary. The duty to protect sites of historical and cultural heritage is entrusted to their owners, who under the law must keep records, prepare security obligations and passports. Security commitments have been signed for almost all the historical and cultural values of the city, accounting documents (passports) are designed for 60% of these objects. In 2011 there were 12 cases in Minsk when protocols on administrative violations in the field of historical and cultural values were drawn.

In Minsk, at the intersection of Pobediteley avenue and Narochanskaya street the foundation stone was laid at the base of a multi-functional complex

Tue Dec 20 21:00:00 2011 GMT

Today in the capital there has been a ceremony of laying the foundation stone to mark the construction of a multifunctional complex at the intersection of Pobediteley avenue and Narochanskaya street. The ceremony was attended by Chairman of Minsk City Executive Committee Nikolai Ladutko.

This construction project marks the beginning of an active development of Lebyazhiy dwelling area, which promises to be one of the best in the capital, Nikolai Ladutko said in an interview with the "Moscow-news" Agency correspondent. The new complex will consist of a 35-storey hotel, a 6-storey building housing offices and a medical center, and residential buildings, located as a cascade on both sides of the Hotel.

In the underground level there will be a parking for 600 cars. The building of this impressive facility is scheduled for a bit more than two years. Its commissioning is scheduled for the end of the year of 2013.

- The complex is significant in scale and architecture. It will be modern even in 50 years, because both by its appearance and functional filling it can be called the project of XXII century - says Nikolay Ladutko.

NABTA Ballet troupe went on tour in Germany and Austria

Wed Dec 14 21:00:00 2011 GMT

A ballet troupe of the National Academic Bolshoi Theatre of Opera and Ballet of the Republic of Belarus (NABTA) began their tour in Germany and Austria, which will last until mid-February.

Ballet dancers of Minsk will present their performances of "Swan Lake" and "The Nutcracker" in Vienna, Cologne, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg, Berlin, Leipzig, Potsdam and other cities, the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent was told at NABTA. For the first time in its history, while touring all ballet performances will also be held at the theater.

"Swan Lake" is a four-act ballet, Libretto by Vladimir Begichev, the music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

The plot is based on folk motifs, including an old German legend that tells about the beautiful princess Odette, transformed into a swan by curse of the evil sorcerer - Knight Rothbart. The premiere was held on March 4, 1877 at the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow.

"The Nutcracker" is a two-act ballet by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky to a libretto by Marius Petipa for the fairy tale by Ernst Theodor Amadeus Hoffmann "Nutcracker and the Mouse King." The premiere was held on December 6, 1892 at the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg.

Darya Domracheva of Minsk won the individual 15-kilometer race at the biathlon World Cup meet in Sweden

Thu Dec 1 21:00:00 2011 GMT

At the biathlon World Cup meet in Ostersund, Sweden, Darya Domracheva of Minsk won the women’s 15-kilometer individual race, the "Minsk-news" agency reports. In the four rounds of the shooting range the athlete of Minsk missed two targets (1-1-0-0). The nearest pursuer Anna Maria Nilson of Sweden lost Domracheva 1 minute 8 seconds. In the third stage of the podium there was Germany’s Magdalena Neuner.

On December 3 Darya will compete in 7.5 km. sprint-distance, and on December 4 - in the pursuit race (10 km).

The ballet troupe of the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre of Belarus completed the Spanish tour

Tue Nov 29 21:00:00 2011 GMT

The ballet troupe of the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre of Belarus have finished their tour of Spain.

As the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent was told in the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre of Belarus, the skill of Belarusian artists was applauded by the audience of Zaragoza, Terrace and Pamplona who saw the ballets "La Sylphide" and "Swan Lake". The main parties were danced by Olga Gaiko, Lyudmila Kudryavtseva, Marina Vezhnovets, Igor Artamonov, Oleg Eromkin, Anton Kravchenko, Constantine Geronik, Igor Onoshko.

On December 13 they will begin a tour in Germany and Austria, which will last until mid-February. "Swan Lake" and "The Nutcracker" will be presented during the tour.

It is for the first time in the history of the theater that, while touring, ballet performances in full will also be held at the Theatre in Minsk.

City art gallery of works by Leonid Shchemelev launches new project "Healing art"

Tue Nov 29 21:00:00 2011 GMT

An exhibition of works by the 20-year-old artist Paul Raschinsky starts on 2 December in the capital, in the City Art Gallery of works by Leonid Shchemelev.

At birth, Paul was diagnosed with "cerebral palsy", but he never wanted to fall behind his peers. As a child, he gathered construction toys by his feet, and now he draws the same way. There are over 200 works, made in gouache and pencil, in the collection of the Minsk painter. Among the favorite topics there are unusual flowers, animals, fairy-tale characters. Besides his pictures are rich in bright colors and optimism.

As the gallery director Tatiana Bembel told the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent, this exhibition launches a new project - "Healing art". Its goal is to support those who need help and for various reasons are cut off from ordinary life.

Minsk icon painter is working on an icon for the Orthodox Church in San Francisco

Tue Nov 29 21:00:00 2011 GMT

Olga Chernyak, icon painter from Minsk, is working over the next icon for the Orthodox Cathedral in San Francisco that is on the Pacific Coast of the USA. The icon was ordered by the archpriest Peter Perekrestov, and the icon-painter was blessed for work the Metropolitan of Minsk and Slutsk, Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus.

Earlier Olga Chernyak made for the American church icons "Cathedral of the Holy Martyrs of the Chinese" (among the parishioners of the Church of San Francisco there are many Orthodox Hans) and St. Luke (Voyno-Yasenetsky).

The plot of the new icon ("Descent into Hell") tells of how, after the crucifixion, Jesus Christ descended into hell and brought to the underworld preach the gospel, freed the souls that were imprisoned there and led out of hell all the Old Testament saints, as well as Adam and Eve.

- It is based on the icon of the XV century, housed at the State Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, - said Olga Igorevna to the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent. – A list which is a little shorter than the original, should be kept at the altar of the San Francisco church, and only on special celebrations it will be brought on to the lectern (used in worship rectangular table with a sloping top).

However, to see how the new work coming out now from under the hand of Olga Chernyak will look like, Minsk dwellers do not have to go overseas. Olga had already painted a similar icon for St. Peter and Paul temple of our capital.

In 1981 Olga Chernyak graduated from the Department of architectural ceramics of Belarusian Theatre and Art Institute. She is a member of the Artists' Union of Belarus. She has been working in the sphere of Iconography since 1991. Her works can be found in the temples of the Belarusian capital, as well as in the temples of Europe, USA, Canada and Israel.

Olga Chernyak’s workshop is located in the parish of Minsk "All the Afflicted," namesake of the Cathedral in San Francisco.

Minsk chess player Anastasia Zezyulkina - twice world champion among girls

Mon Nov 28 21:00:00 2011 GMT

Anastasia Zezyulkina from Minsk became the world chess champion among girls under 16 in the world championship held in Caldas Novas, Brazil.

Of the nine matches the pupil of Minsk Children and Youth Olympic Reserve Sports School for Chess and Checkers № 11 scored 7 victories. One game ended in a draw, one time she suffered a defeat. All in all she gained 7.5 points and took first place.

According to the "Minsk-News" agency correspondent, Presidential Sports Club scholarship holder Anastasia Zezyulkina has become the winner of the championship for girls under 16 for the second consecutive year. Last year she won a similar tournament in Greece.

Team of the Department of Applied Mathematics and Informatics of BSU won bronze in the semi-final of the ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest, held in St. Petersburg Russia

Mon Nov 28 21:00:00 2011 GMT

The team of the Department of Applied Mathematics and Informatics of Belarusian State University won the bronze medal in the semi-final of the ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest.

The competition, held in St. Petersburg, was attended by more than two hundred higher educational institution teams from Russia, Belarus, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.

According to the information given to the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent in the press service of the Belarusian State University, the three bronze medalists were third-year students Dmitry Bogdanov, Yuri Pisrchik and Sergei Sobol. For 5 hours the Minskers managed to do 8 tasks of the 11 proposed. Now they will compete among hundreds of teams from the world's best universities in the finals to be held in the spring of 2012 in Warsaw.

It was also reminded in the press service that another three teams of BSU successfully performed in the semi-finals and won 13, 15 and 21st place, entering the pool of potential finalists. However, the rules of the competition allow only one University team to participate in the finals.

By the way, it is for the first time that one more university team - the team of the Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radio Electronics got in the finals of the championship.

Visitors to the capital's movie theatre "Belarus" can see the photo exhibition "Ecology of Belarus through the eyes of the traveler"

Sun Oct 23 21:00:00 2011 GMT

In the capital's movie theatre "Belarus" there is a ten-day exhibition "Ecology of Belarus through the eyes of the traveler."

As reported to the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent by the organizers of the project, the object of attention of the authors of works presented here are urban landscapes, life of forest dwellers, pre-dawn moments and, of course, man.

The exhibition, which has been developed in the movie theater "Belarus" numbers over two dozen pictures. They are the works which became the winners of the thematic republican competition arranged by the TV Travel Channel and "Cosmos TV" Company.

Selection of the jury was not easy. Belarusian photographers - amateurs and professionals - have filed to contest more than 700 applications. On the website of the digital gallery nearly 8 thousand people voted for these works.

Among the exhibits there are also pictures taken in Minsk. Some of them were included in the nomination "Cry for Help". By using photography, the authors have tried to raise environmental problems that are urgent for the capital.

A Delegation from the University of the Sultanate of Oman visited BSU

Sun Oct 16 21:00:00 2011 GMT

A delegation of the University named after the Sultan Qaboos (Sultanate of Oman) headed by the Rector of the University Al-Baimani Ali bin Saud visited the Belarusian State University.

As reported to the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent in the press service of the Belarusian State University, the parties held talks on strengthening cooperation in the framework of the current Memorandum of Understanding between the two universities.

Among the participants in the talks there were: the Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at Belarusian State University Vladimir Clunia, the deans of the Faculty of Law and the Faculty of Physics Victor ANISHCHIK and Sergei BALASHENKO, the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Chemistry Tatyana SAVITSKAYA and the Head of the BSU International Cooperation Department Vadim REZNIKOV.

Note: Oman is a country in Southwest Asia, south-east of the Arabian Peninsula. Its territory is 309 thousand square kilometers, population - 3.2 million people. About 80% of the population of Oman are Arabs. The country’s capital is the city of Muscat.

The economy of Oman is based on oil exports. The authorities of the Sultanate are planning to diversify its economy - to develop gas production, metallurgic industry and tourism.

Colleagues from Belarus and Germany have been invited to the 2nd Day of Young Scientists which is taking place in Minsk

Wed Oct 5 21:00:00 2011 GMT

Today the 2nd Day of Young Scientists is held in Minsk at the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) of Belarus. It is organized by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the National Academy of Sciences. The theme to be discussed by young researchers is energy resources, environment.

According to the information given to the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent in the press service of the National Academy of Sciences, at the Forum which is also attended by their senior domestic and German colleagues Belarusian post-graduates and young scientists can present their researches and participate in interdisciplinary discussions.

A day earlier, in the capital the Youth Innovation Forum NAS – 2011 took place. The Forum was held to select the best projects for the participation of young scientists of the Academy of Sciences in the category "Best Youth Innovation Project" of the annual National Competition of innovative projects, as well as in the events of the Belarusian Innovation Week, including the II International Youth Scientific Conference and the Youth Innovation Forum "Science and Business - 2011".

The Academic Innovation Forum, for the participation in which 44 projects were recommended is aimed at young scientists of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus who are under 35 and who have innovative designs and unique ideas and who do promising scientific research.

Note: the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus is the highest state scientific organization of the Republic of Belarus which organizes, conducts and coordinates basic and applied research and development in various fields of natural, engineering, social sciences, humanities and arts.

Sergey Korneev from Minsk got at least a bronze medal of the World Championship for Boxing

Wed Oct 5 21:00:00 2011 GMT

At the World Championship for Boxing which is being held in Baku Sergey Korneev from Minsk reached the semifinal, winning at least a bronze medal and the Olympic license.

As the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent reports, in the quarter-final the pupil of Sergei Pytalev defeated Choaba Bolodinatsa from Algeria ahead of schedule. Sergey’s next opponent will be the highly-experienced Ukrainian boxer Alexander Usik.

The fight is to take place on October 7.

Lyubov Cherkashina and Melitina Stanyuta from Minsk won medals at the World Cup series in Rhythmic Gymnastics

Sun Sep 11 21:00:00 2011 GMT

At the regular World Cup series in Rhythmic Gymnastics that was held in Tashkent, Minsk graces won four medals. As the "Minsk-News" Agency correspondent reports, Lyubov Cherkashina rose to the third step of the podium three times: in the exercises with hoop and ball, as well as in all-round competitions. Melitina Stanyuta ranked third in the exercise with clubs.

The competitions in Tashkent have become the final international competitions before the World Cup – 2011 to be held September 19-25 in Montpellier, France. Licenses to the Olympics in London will be awarded in the main tournament of the year.

Capital crew won medals at the stage of European Powerboat Championship

Sun Sep 11 21:00:00 2011 GMT

At the final stage of the European Powerboat Championship, which took place in the waters of the reservoir "Drozdy", the crew from the capital "Minsk-DOSAAF" took third place.

As the "Minsk-News" Agency correspondent recalls, the team of Artem Soloviev, Boris Bondar and brothers Nikolai and Alexander Seryakinyh for 6 hours made 123 rounds of range in junior class boats (up to 60 liters.) It was about 246 miles (more than 320 km). Each of the pilots spent 1.5 hours on the track.

Another capital team, "OSVOD-Velez," was the fourth in the junior class (81 rounds).

All in all 24 crews took part in the competition. 7 of them didn’t manage to reach the finish.

JSC "MAZ" will present its technology at the 11th International Specialized Exhibition "Commercial Motor Transport ComTrans 2011" in Moscow

Sun Sep 11 21:00:00 2011 GMT

JSC "Minsk Automobile Plant" will take part in the 11-th International Specialized Exhibition "Commercial Motor Transport ComTrans 2011", which will be held from 13 to 17 September in the International Exhibition Centre "Crocus Expo" in Moscow.

According to the information provided to the "Minsk-News" Agency correspondent in the JSC "MAZ" press center, the metropolitan enterprise is going to present its new machines – artic with front layout of the engine MAZ-6440PA, artic MAZ-5440B9, high-sided truck MAZ-4371W1, dump truck MAZ- 6501W6 and bus MAZ 241.

ComTrans exhibition is one of the most significant events in the world of commercial vehicles. It is chosen by the world's leading manufacturers of trucks, passenger, trailers and special vehicles to present their latest developments.

It should be noted that JSC "MAZ" is constantly working to expand its lineup. Now they are completing the development of a full line of vehicles of Euro-4. Thus, in Moscow they are going to present an artic equipped with a new engine YMZ-651.10 of ecological standard Euro-4. Since the end of 2011 consumers will also be offered MAZ vehicles equipped with engines "Cummins". The two vehicles to be exhibited (high-sided truck -4371W1 MAZ and dump truck MAZ-6501W6), as well as a bus MAZ 241 are equipped with these engines.

A new stage in the development of the Minsk Automobile Plant was the creation of a car bonnet with the layout of the MAZ-6440PA. This model has an organic combination of not only domestic advanced technologies but also international automobile industry.

A broad variety of MAZ vehicles is accounted for by broad geography of supplies - more than 50 countries. In addition to the traditional foreign markets, where there is strong growth in sales of MAZ, such as Russia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Uzbekistan, Moldova, Georgia, the plant strengthens its positions in markets abroad.

Today there are 7 successful assembly plants: in Latvia, Lithuania, Serbia, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Vietnam and Iran. The construction of a plant to produce up to 5,000 units of MAZ trucks a year is carried on in Venezuela.

A broad variety of lineup of MAZ vehicles, a significant improvement in their quality and good servicing have led to an increase in sales volume by 150% over the same period last year.

National team of Holland is in training on the "Minsk-Arena" speed skating stadium

Mon Aug 29 21:00:00 2011 GMT

The Dutch national team in speed skating are having a preseason training on the "Minsk-Arena" speed skating stadium, the "Minsk-News" gency correspondent reports. The team of 8 athletes has trainings two times a day: on the ice in the morning and on bikes or in the gym in the afternoon. According to its coaches the team members are satisfied with the quality of the ice, the conditions offered for training, accommodation and meals. The training will continue till August 31.

Among the national team members there are also the team leaders – Sven Kramer and Irene Wust who are Vancouver Olympic champions, multiple world and European champions.

Festival of Puppet Theatre from Poland will be held in Minsk

Mon Aug 29 21:00:00 2011 GMT

A Festival of the Polish puppet theatre and animated films for adults will be held in Minsk from 1 to 8 September. The main venue for the meeting will be the Belarusian State Puppet Theatre.

The program includes performances of "Toporland" and "Second Room", which will be presented by the actors’ association "Union Impossible Theatre".

In addition to the Belarusian capital the Polish guests will also visit Grodno, Brest, Mogilev, and some district towns.

The project was prepared with the support of the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage of Poland.

According to the information provided to the "Minsk-News" Agency correspondent in the puppet theatre, the Festival participants will also bring CDs with recordings of other performances.

Eight athletes from Minsk set out for the World Championship in Track and Field Athletics in Daegu, Republic of Korea

Wed Aug 24 21:00:00 2011 GMT

At the World Championship in Track and Field Athletics which will take place in the South Korean city of Daegu, the national team of Belarus will be represented by 8 althetes from Minsk, the "Minsk-news" Agency reports.

The participants in the competitions will include Yury Shayunov - hammer throw, Andrey Mikhnevich, Natalia Mikhnevich and Nadezhda Ostapchuk - shot-put, Veronica Shutkova long jump, Marina Arzamasova - race in 800 meters, - the relay 4 to 100 m - Yulia Balykina and Yelena Danyluk -Nevmerzhitskaya - 4x100 meters relay.

The World Championship starts on August 27, the finals will be held on September 4. Television in Belarus will conduct channel "Lad".

French retailer Carrefour may come to Minsk

Tue Aug 23 21:00:00 2011 GMT

As the "Minsk-news" Agency reports, today Deputy Chairman of Minsk City Executive Committee Alexander Borisenko met with Mr. Guy Maki, partner of the foreign company. The sides held talks on the prospects of opening branches of retail chain Carrefour in the capital.

- Several hundreds of investment projects, including the participation of foreign capital are being realized in Minsk - said Alexander Borisenko. - We are ready to discuss the proposals initiated by your company, to provide all possible assistance in terms of establishing business and partnership relations with our country.

To familiarize himself with the possibilities of work on the Belarusian market, during his visit to our country Guy Maki visited a number of shopping malls and processing plants of the capital. In his view, the opening of Carrefour stores will not only increase trade in the domestic market but will also facilitate the realization of Belarusian products abroad, because it will be pushed through the branches of French companies in other countries.

There are stores under the brand names owned by Carrefour in France, Spain, Latin America and the Middle East. The principle of the network: 80% of the sale of domestic products and 20% of imports.

BSU and Seoul University Goryeo agreed to exchange students

Sun Aug 14 21:00:00 2011 GMT

Academician Sergei Ablameyko, Rector of the Belarusian State University, met with Professor Kim Jin Kyu, Vice-director of the Russian Language Institute at Seoul University Goryeo (Republic of Korea).

According to the information given to the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent at the press service of the Belarusian State University, during the meeting the parties discussed practical implementation of the Memorandum of Cooperation between the Belarusian State University and the University of Goryeo which is one of the leading universities in the Republic of Korea and which is within the top one hundred universities in the world. The University of Goryeo was founded in 1905 as the country's first higher educational institution of the European type. In 1979, the university-based institute was established, which is one of the major centers of Russian studies in the Republic of Korea.

The parties reached an agreement about an exchange of students and staff in the field of "Russian Philology" and "Korean Philology", including the study of the Russian Language by Korean students of Russian Language at the Philological Faculty of the BSU. In addition, Kim Jin-kyu showed great interest in developing cooperation in the field of Russian-Korean Youth Association, which he heads.

The BSU is the only institution in our country, where the Korean language is studied. The course is offered at the Faculty of International Relations within the major "Linguistics and Cultural Studies" wherein 2009 the Center for Korean Studies was also formed.

Belarusian State University Lyceum team to travel to Tehran for a tournament for young physicists

Tue Jul 19 21:00:00 2011 GMT

Belarusian State University Lyceum team to travel to Tehran for a tournament for young physicists

A team of eleventh-formers of the Belarusian State University Lyceum who took the first place at the national tournament for young physicists will represent Belarus at the XXIV International Competition of young physicists. The tournament is to be held from 22 to 31 July in Tehran, the capital of Iran.

According to the information given to the “Minsk-news” agency correspondent at the Belarusian State University press service participation in the tournament will be taken by teams from 25 countries, including Great Britain, Germany, France, China, Mexico, Nigeria, Brazil, Singapore and others.

Every year, this International Tournament which is also known as the Physics World Cup, gathers in the ranks of the audience and the jury leading physicists and professors of European Universities. These competitions are among the most prestigious international school tournaments. Participating in them, students act as scientists, they acquire skills in doing research and conducting a scientific discussion.

By the way, in Belarus, a tournament movement has been developing for more than 18 years and students of the Belarusian State University Lyceum have been its active participants.

At the beginning of March, this year, there was held the 19th Republican tournament in which the two teams of the Belarusian State University Lyceum took 1st and 2nd places. The team of tenth-formers of the Belarusian State University Lyceum that won the 2nd place, received an invitation from the Association “Austrian Tournament for Young Physicists - Research Forum of Young Scientists” to participate in the Open Championship in Austria, which took place in the city of Leoben (the federal province of Styria of the Alpine Republic). According to the results of the competition, the team that represented Belarus won the third degree diploma.

Belarusian State Academy of Arts admits students with a new speciality

Mon Jul 11 21:00:00 2011 GMT

Belarusian State Academy of Arts has started to admit students with a new speciality - "Art Critic (Movie-TV- Dramaturgy)", qualification - "Film and TV Critic. Scriptwriter. Editor."

As it has been informed to the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent by the methodologist of the Training Department of the Academy Julia Savitch, this year in this speciality they are going to admit 10 people as full-time students and 8 people - to study by correspondence. Next academic year the number of first-year students of the Academy will make up 335 people as compared with 279 people this year. In 2011 255 people graduated from the Academy, 13 of them received their diplomas with honours (11 - full-time students and 2 - external students).

Belarusian State Academy of Arts is preparing artists for the theater, fine and decorative arts, specialists for the cinematography and T.V., as well as specialists to be employed in different areas of design. The Academy was founded in 1945 as the Belarusian Theatre Institute. Now its structure consists of four departments: theatrical department, department of arts, design and decorative arts and an advanced training course.

Minsk Medical University begins training of Pharmacists

Mon Jul 11 21:00:00 2011 GMT

From the new academic year Belarusian State Medical University (BSMU) starts training of pharmacists.

Information that there will be "Pharmacy" speciality at the University was provided to the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent at the University selection committee.

University graduates will work in the sphere of production, storage and sale of drugs. Until now, pharmacists of higher qualification could be trained only at Vitebsk State Medical University. Today the labor market of the country is still in need of these specialists.

New specialities to this year school-leavers will also be offered by other universities of the capital. For example, at the Faculty of the Environmental Monitoring of the International State Ecological University named after A.D. Sakharov there will be introduced a new speciality: "Nature Protection Activity" whose graduates will be given a qualification of "Ecologist. Engineer for the Protection of Environment". It is introduced in place of the speciality "Environmental Monitoring. Management and Audit". The duties of its specialists will include an assessment of environmental impacts, design in the sphere of nature protection, as well as execution of various kinds of ecological expertise.

Belarusian State Pedagogical University named after M. Tank also offers its applicants a few new specialities. At the faculty of the Belarusian and Russian Philology, formed in 2010, there will be three of them: "Belarusian Language and Literature. English", "Belarusian Language and Literature. German", "Belarusian Language and Literature. Russian Language and Literature". "Applied Psychology" is introduced at the Faculty of Psychology. It will train teachers and psychologists.

Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radioelectronics, invites school-leavers to take up "Laser Information and Measurement Systems" speciality at the Department of Telecommunications. Its graduates will have an opportunity to become engineers in medical, aviation and aerospace sectors.

As it is known, the centralized testing in Belarus is over and higher educational institutions continue to receive documents from applicants who wish to become their students.

International Checkers Tournament ended in the capital

Mon Jul 11 21:00:00 2011 GMT

The International Checkers Tournament - 100 "Minsk-2011" held in the Republican Center of Olympic Preparation for Chess and Checkers has ended.

The competition involved more than 40 well-known draught-players from Belarus, Russia, Lithuania and Germany. According to the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent, our city was represented by International Grand Masters Yevgueny Vatutin and Irina Pashkiewich, International Master Olga Fedorovich., Masters of Sports Dariya Fedorovich and Vladislav Valyuk, and a number of young athletes - students of Minsk Sports School № 11 and the School of the Republican Center of Olympic Reserve.

They played according to the Swiss system of 9 rounds. The tournament was won by Yevgueny Vatutin, who gained 14 points of 18 possible. The same result was achieved by International Master Ivan Kostionov from Russia- he gained second place. Third place was also gained by a guest from Russia -International Grand Master Andrew Kalmakov (13 points).

Yury Timonovich, talented ten-year-old second class draught-player from Minsk, didn't get lost at the prestigious tournament either. Being a pupil of the Minsk coach, International Grand Master Sergey Nosevich, he ranked high - 26^th place.

27th European Championship in Rhythmic Gymnastics in Minsk

Thu May 26 21:00:00 2011 GMT

The 27^th European Championship in rhythmic gymnastics will be held in Minsk on May 27 - 29 at "Minsk-Arena". On May 27 and 28 it begins at 10.00, and on Sunday, May 29 - at 11.00.

"Spectators will in no way regret that they have come to the 27^th European Championship in rhythmic gymnastics. All the world's strongest gymnasts are to be here. They begin their preparation for the London Olympics and are earning ranking points. So, welcome to the Championship! I assure you: you will never regret that you have decided to attend it. And the girls will undoubtedly be very pleased if the house is full. They appreciate emotional support. If the stands are full of people, they will be sure that they will be able to do their utmost,"- says head coach of Belarus Irina Leparskaya.

The head coach of Belarus didn’t bring herself to make any forecasts for the European Championship, but noted that "each of the gymnasts is dreaming of nothing but victory only".

Among the guests of the European Championship there will be the recent stars: Alina Kabaeva (now the Russian State Duma Deputy), Irina Chashchina, Anna Bessonova and Olga Kapranova. And the last three will participate in a traditional show of stars of world gymnastics, which will crown the tournament on the evening of May 29.

Winners of the French-language Theatres Festival will go to France

Tue May 3 21:00:00 2011 GMT

On May 6-7 a festival of French-language amateur theatres will be held at the Minsk State Palace of Children and Youth. Among the participants in the celebration of Melpomene there will be 19 companies from Minsk, Orsha, Molodechno, Grodno and other cities and towns of Belarus.

Such an event is held in our city for the 18th time, the organizers of the project informed the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent. Amateur actors and actresses are going to present performances made on the basis of works by classical and modern French authors. There will also be presented performances based on folk tales and poetry books. Two winners will be awarded a trip to France.

The VIII International Ice Hockey Tournament in memory of Minsk Dynamo keeper Vladimir Semenov starts in Minsk

Thu Apr 21 21:00:00 2011 GMT

In memory of the Minsk Dynamo keeper Vladimir Semenov the VIII International Ice Hockey Tournament for boys born in 1988-99 is to be held at "Minsk-Arena". This information was received by the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent at the Department of Physical Culture, Sport and Tourism of the Minsk City Executive Committee.

Among the participants in the tournament there will be "Younost" (Minsk), two teams of the Specialized Olympic Reserve Sports School for Children and Youth (Minsk), "Kryliya Sovetov" (Russia), "Yastreby" (Russia) and "Sokol" (Ukraine).

The tournament starts today at 9.00. The teams are to compete during three game days. The winner and the prize winners will receive medals and diplomas. Special prizes will also be awarded to the best ice hockey players.

On April 21, 2011 an exhibition of Japanese royal porcelain of XVII-XX centuries opened in the capital

Wed Apr 20 21:00:00 2011 GMT

As it has been reported to the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent by Galina Ladisova, Director of the Museum, the exposition consists of over 60 items: vases, dishes, plates, tea sets, small sculptural forms. Among the exhibits there will be products made by artists from Arita, Kutani and Satsuma - the main Japanese centers where porcelain products are manufactured. Until the XIX century, these items were not available for the general population of the Land of the Rising Sun who gave preference to low-cost ceramic ware. They were produced for export.

Large monumental vases, dishes and bowls were mainly designed for the decoration of the state rooms of European palaces. For this reason, in Japan itself such products are rare today.

The exhibition "Japanese Royal Porcelain of XVII-XX Centuries" has been arranged in support of the sister city of Minsk - Sendai, affected by the earthquake and tsunami, and it will last until the end of May. Part of the money to be earned in the course of the exhibition will be transferred to the charity account of the city of Sendai.

Families of those killed in the Minsk metro to get monetary compensation

Tue Apr 12 21:00:00 2011 GMT

The families of those who died as a result of the terrorist action which took place at "Oktyabrskaya" metro station last Monday, are to get monetary compensation. This was announced today by Chairman of Minsk City Executive Committee Nikolai Ladutko during his visit to "Oktyabrskaya" metro station.

- Each family of the victims will receive a ten-thousand-dollar compensation- he said. - The size of sums of money to be paid to the injured has also been determined, he added.

According to N. Ladutko, the dead will be buried on 13-14 April. The funds for the funeral will be allocated from the city budget.

- The city budget is fully ready for it, - said N. Ladutko. - We have a reserve fund, which is designed for any emergencies. We have the funds that are necessary for burying the dead, and the funds will be used in the right way.

In connection with the tragedy in the Minsk metro April 13 is announced a Day of Mourning

Sun Apr 10 21:00:00 2011 GMT

In connection with the tragedy that occurred in the Minsk metro on April 11, 2011, April 13 is announced a Day of Mourning. This decision was made by the in Minsk City Executive Committee.

In connection with the tragic events that occurred at "Oktyabrskaya" metro station on 11 April 2011, the Minsk City Executive Committee has opened accounts for charitable donations in Banking Affiliate 539 of JSC "Belinvestbank", code 739:

№	Account Number	Account Currency	Currency Code
1.	3642740104035	Belarussian ruble	974
2.	3642740104064	Russian ruble	643
3.	3642740104048	USD	840
4.	3642740104051	Euro	978

Beneficiary - Minsk City Executive Committee, UNP 100621571

Telephone of Belinvestbank Reference Service: 146

Armenian Culture Day to be held in Linguistic University in Minsk

Tue Apr 5 21:00:00 2011 GMT

As the "Minsk-news" agency correspondent was told at the Minsk Cultural and Educational Center " Hayastan ", "Erebuni" folk group will present their big solo program "In the World of Armenian Dance" in the auditorium of Minsk State Linguistic University. The folk group, directed by Ruzana Avanesyan consists of Minskers performing folk dances and songs of this ancient Transcaucasian country. The folk group is a repeated participant in the Festival of national cultures in Grodno.

In the foyer of the University there will be an exhibition ""Armenia, the Cradle of Christian Civilization" by Minsk photographer Anna Atoyan-Herman.

Capitals of Belarus, Austria and Slovakia to build friendship through their theatres

Tue Apr 5 21:00:00 2011 GMT

According to the information given to the “Minsk-news” agency correspondent at the press service of the theatre, in the Austrian capital, Vladimir Gridushko held talks with the Director of the Vienna State Opera, Dominique Meyer. The talks resulted in reaching an agreement to begin mutually beneficial cooperation, which will provide for creative internships, exchange of soloists, participation in music competitions and festivals, an active exchange of information on the most important artistic events in the lives of the two theaters.

In the capital of Slovakia, Vladimir Gridiushko met with the Director-General of the Slovak National Theatre Andrew Shotom and the Artistic Director of Opera Peter Dvorsky.

The parties confirmed their intention to implement creative ideas, stipulated by the Memorandum signed in September last year, to develop bilateral cooperation in the field of musical art, theatrical staging activities, to jointly organize and carry out international creative actions and tours.

Third Electric Train for "Urban Lines" delivered to Belarus

Sun Apr 3 21:00:00 2011 GMT

The third electric train has been delivered to Belarus within the realization of the "Urban Lines" project. Like the previous two multiple-unit trains, it was delivered from Switzerland by truck tractors. At Baranovichi locomotive shed the cars were placed on platform chassis. Electric and train-stop equipment and trolleys are being currently installed. It is expected that at the beginning of the next week the third Swiss electric train will be delivered to the Minsk railway car shed where its specialists will set up the systems of diagnostics and safety, check up the electric equipment and carry out all other necessary procedures.

As the "Minsk News" agency correspondent was informed at the Belarusian Railway press center, two electric trains within the realization of the "Urban Lines" project are being run in now. They are to cover 2.5 thousand kilometers without passengers on board.

With the beginning of the summer time train schedule they will start trial operation en route "Minsk-Passazhirsky – Belarus (Zaslavl)" with passengers on board. It is planned that the regular train service on the "Urban Lines" route will be opened by the end of the third quarter 2011, after finishing all technical and organizational procedures, the development of necessary standards and norms as well as the reconstruction of the railway infrastructure.

At the first stage the new electric trains will run en route Minsk-Zhdanovichi-Zaslavl. In perspective the "Urban Lines" will connect the capital with its other satellite towns.

Youth Theatre to Present a French Comedy at the Minor Hall of the Palace of the Republic

Sun Apr 3 21:00:00 2011 GMT

The first night of the comedy "Don’t Dress for Dinner" is to be held at the Minor hall of the Palace of the Republic on April 7. The production of the play by the well-known French playwright Marc Camoletti "Don’t Dress for Dinner" has been prepared by the Belarusian State Youth Theatre. A fun story about a confusing tangle of life of quite a wealthy family has been popular on many stages.

In his production Mikhail Kovalchik involved Serhei Sharangovich, Raisa Sidorchik, Anastasiya Solovyova and other actors and actresses of the company.

As the "Minsk News" agency correspondent was informed at the theatre, the fascinating plot hides an intrigue which is revealed at its finale.

Tue Mar 8 22:00:00 2011 GMT

Delegation of Minsk City Executive Committee to take part in Belarusian-Latvian Investment Forum

Tue Feb 22 22:00:00 2011 GMT

A delegation of the Minsk City Executive Committee has been invited to the Belarusian-Latvian Investment Forum to be held in Riga on March 4-6, said Tatyana Kravchenko, Acting Chairman of the Economy Committee of the Minsk City Executive Committee.

Over 40 Belarusian companies have expressed their wish to participate in the Forum. Tatyana Kravchenko said that at the Forum they would continue the dialogue that was initiated during the Investment Forum "Minsk – Riga", which was held in the Belarusian capital on February 16-19.

"There were round tables, meetings at the ambassadorial level, Presidents of Chambers of Commerce of both countries. Both sides showed their mutual interest", reported the head of the Economy Committee. "Moreover, as components from EU countries are used in Belarusian products and technology, our companies are interested in establishing joint ventures in the territory of Latvia. This would entail a significant reduction in production costs. Customs duties could be avoided too. The Minsk Automobile Plant has started joint assembling of trucks in Latvia, and the effect is huge. A similar proposal has been received by "Belkommunmash» and the Minsk Tractor Plant", she added.

In the foreign trade of Minsk Latvia takes 8th place for exports. In 2010 exports grew by 15 times and reached 124 million dollars (in 2009 it was only 8 million). The Baltic Republic gets machinery and petroleum products that are shipped from the Belarusian capital. As for imports (mostly seafood) they grew by 3% and made up about $ 35 million.

Minsk project of public transport modernization has won the competition of the International Union of Public Transport

Sun Feb 20 22:00:00 2011 GMT

The project of the modernization of public transport in the capital of Belarus, submitted by the Minsk City administration has been selected for an award of the winner of the competition of the International Union of Public Transport (IUPT) for Eastern Europe and Eurasia. This is stated in the letter received by the Minsk City Executive Committee from IUPT Secretary General Hans Rath. It is one of the projects that were submitted for the competition by 60 union member companies, Acting Chairman of the Economy Committee of the Minsk City Executive Committee Tatyana Kravchenko said at an operational meeting in the Minsk City Executive Committee today. The prize will be handed over to the delegation of Belarus at the IUPT World Congress to be held in Dubai on April 10-14. According to Tatyana Kravchenko, Mr Hans Rath requests the Chairman of the Minsk City Executive Committee to lead the Belarusian delegation. The proposal has been supported by the RPO "Belarusian Union of Transport Workers", which in its turn proposes that the delegation should also include managers of the State Institution "Metropolitan Transport and Communications", State Enterprise "Minsktrans", Minsk subway, as well as companies producing passenger vehicles - MAZ and Belkommunmash . "In recent years much has been done for the development of public transport by the authorities of the capital. Over the past five-year period about 80% of the rolling stock has been updated", the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent cited the words of Leontii Papenok, General Director of the "Minsktrans" State Enterprise. According to Leontii Papenok, in 2010 157 buses, 50 trolleybuses and 6 trams were purchased. At present the average age of public transport is from 3.5 to 4.5 years. This year the enterprise is also going to purchase 110 buses, 50 trolleybuses and 97 trams. In addition, this year they are going to complete the introduction of the navigation system of control over the movement of public transport. They are also working on the introduction of public land transport e-ticketing. Currently they are looking for a suitable option to pay a single passage through an electronic card and for this they are trying to create the necessary infrastructure. This system was planned to be introduced in 2012, however, the Chairman of the Minsk City Executive Committee set a task of expediting the process.

Today the Economic Forum "Minsk - Riga-2011" begins its work in the Minsk City Hall

Wed Feb 16 22:00:00 2011 GMT

As it has been informed to the “Minsk-news” Agency correspondent at the press service of the Minsk City Executive Committee, the Forum is held during the visit of the Latvian delegation headed by the Deputy Chairman of the Riga City Council Andris Ameriks to Minsk.

The Forum is organized by the Minsk City Executive Committee in conjunction with the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia and the Minsk Branch of the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce. It is planned that the Forum will be attended by leaders of the Riga City Council, Riga Free Port, as well as representatives of business circles of the Baltic republic.

As is known, the visit of the Latvian delegation will last till February 19. During their stay in the Belarusian capital the guests are going to have some business meetings and get acquainted with the machine-building enterprises of the republic.

National costumes from China are on display in the historical museum in Minsk

Tue Feb 15 22:00:00 2011 GMT

An exhibition of national costumes of China has been opened in the National History Museum of the Republic of Belarus. Opening the exposition, which is a collection of 30 costumes, Counsellor of the Embassy of China in Belarus Van Santszyuy noted that citizens of Minsk would have an opportunity to see examples of traditional men’s and women’s clothing from different ethnic groups of China.

At the opening ceremony there was a concert given by Chinese students studying at the Academy of Music of the Republic of Belarus.

At the Biathlon World Cup in the United States Darya Domracheva from Minsk ranked third in the 12.5 km race

Sun Feb 13 22:00:00 2011 GMT

At the Biathlon World Cup in Fort Kent (USA) Darya Domracheva from Minsk took third place in the 12.5 km mass start, the "Minsk-news" agency reports. In four shooting ranges the Minsk biathlonist had a single penalty and lost to the winner - Magdalena Neuner of Germany - almost 29 seconds.

Another biathlonist from Minsk, Nadezhda Scardino, finished 27th, with four penalties.

Belarusian Railway introduces online system for selling travel documents

Mon Feb 7 22:00:00 2011 GMT

Buying train tickets without leaving their home or office will soon become possible for Belarusian citizens, including residents of Minsk.

As reported to the "Minsk-news' Agency correspondent in the press center of the Belarusian Railways, from February 10 they will start selling travel documents on line with the help of bank cards and online banking. During the first phase the service will be available only to card holders of JSC "Belarusbank".

In real time on the site www.poezd.rw.by passengers will be able to find the latest information on timetables, fares, availability of seats in cars and, most importantly, be able to buy tickets for international or intra-routes.

Paying for a ticket by plastic card with the help of the Internet-banking ", a passenger will receive a unique 14-digit order code according to which they will be able to get travel documents at the railway ticket offices just on the eve of the departure or at any convenient time.

It will be possible to buy tickets via the Internet within a period of 45 days and not later than one hour before the departure of the train from the station of embarkation.

Three residents of Minsk won the international tournament on Thai boxing in Slovakia

Mon Feb 7 22:00:00 2011 GMT

Three Minskers became winners at the large international tournament on Thai boxing Ring of Honor that was held in the Slovak town of Nitra.

The repeated world champion Aleksei Ignashov beat on points the Czech Roman Kleybla, taking revenge for the defeat in 2009. Genghis Allazov defeated the five-time world champion Rudolf Duritsu from Slovakia. And, in the first round the Minsker sent his rival knockdown.

According to Aleksei Samoseiko, representative of the Belarusian Federation of Thai Boxing and Kickboxing, these fights were of rating character, the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent reports.

Vitaly Ahramenko won on points over the Slovak Tomas Kohout and will participate in the 1/4 Grand Prix Final Ring of Honor. His opponent will be known at the end of the week.

From June 1, "Belavia" starts regular flights between Minsk – Helsinki – Minsk

Sun Feb 6 22:00:00 2011 GMT

From June 1, this year the National Airline "Belavia" begins regular flights between Minsk – Helsinki – Minsk. The new air line will be operated by aircraft CRJ-100/200, allowing transportation of up to 50 business and economy class passengers.

As reported to the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent, flights between Belarus and Finland will be operated three times a week: Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays. Tickets for direct flights Minsk – Helsinki – Minsk are already on sale at air traffic agencies and on the website of Belavia.

At the airport in Minsk the new air-route will be connected with the airline "Belavia" routes to Yekaterinburg, Yerevan, Moscow and Tbilisi, which will attract new transit flows through Minsk. Possibility of organizing transit traffic through Helsinki to the airports in Scandinavia, Southeast Asia, North America is being also considered now.

After the opening of this flight the air-route network of the National Airline "Belavia" in the summer season will cover 37 cities of 22 countries of Eurasia.

Musical "Golubaya Cameya" to start on a tour of Belarus

Sun Feb 6 22:00:00 2011 GMT

The musical "Golubaya Cameya", which was premiered at the Belarusian State Academic Musical Theatre, is to be shown in the regional centers of our country as well as at the International Festival of Arts "Slavianski Bazaar" in Vitebsk.

Minskers are the third to stage the musical by the famous composer Kim Breitburg. For the present, in a slightly different version, it is on in Ufa and Krasnoyarsk.

According to the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent, Kim Breitburg said at a press conference that they would start preparing "Golubaya Cameya" for the Muscovites.

International Plastic Arts Festival "Kufar-Plastilin" starts in Minsk

Sun Feb 6 22:00:00 2011 GMT

International Plastic Arts Festival "Kufar-Plastilin" dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the Belarusian State University will be launched in Minsk on February 7.

As reported to the "Minsk-news" Agency correspondent at the Cultural Department of the Belarusian State University, during a week viewers will be able to tour an interactive exhibition of contemporary visual arts (photography, painting, sculpture, design) that will be held in the lobby of the main University building, as well as see performances in the choreographic drama genre staged by leading theater companies from Belarus, Armenia, Turkey and Germany.

The organizers of the event will focus on the popular contemporary trend of nonverbal art forms because they are of universal character and understood by all.

Performances will be held on February 11 and 13 in the capital's club "Broadway." Over two evenings admirers of theatrical art will be offered four performances with coffee discussions during intermissions: "Dreams in Dreams" of the Yerevan Theatre "Migros"; "Pain of Love" of the Anatolian Academic Association; "Esenin’s Wife. A. Duncan’s Last Dance" of the New Berlin Thematic Dance Theater; "Travel Notes" of the Studio Theatre of Modern Choreography from Vitebsk.

Number of hotel beds in the capital to increase by 2.5 times

Thu Feb 3 22:00:00 2011 GMT

By 2014 the number of hotel beds in Minsk is planned to be increased by 2.5 times. This was informed today at a press conference by the Deputy Chairman of Minsk City Executive Committee Vladimir Koltovich, the "Minsk-news" Agency reports.

According to Vladimir Koltovich, for the construction of new hotels they have identified 60 sites and on 7 of which the construction work is under way.

At present there are 28 hotels in the capital. The total number of rooms makes up 3.200. They can accommodate 5.600 guests. 11 metropolitan hotels are certified as 2 - 5 stars hotels.

Mon Jan 17 22:00:00 2011 GMT