Belarus March, 2008

………… and yet another visit to Belarus.

I had a mind full of good intentions, places to go and people to see but other events were to overtake those plans.

As always met at the airport by Sergey and on this occasion Gregory, Raman and a wonderfully talented translator, Marguerite. After the scheduled telephone call home to say that I had arrived safely the discussions began and continued for most of the week.

Belarus was quite mild this year as normally when Easter is early there is snow on the ground and the temperatures can be as low as -30C

Team Belarus, now also known by the company name “Zagrai Belarus” were eager to revisit the land which they hoped to develop and also the tract of land which would be the reserve to protect the fauna and flora including the European Wolf, bison, lynx, wild boar etc.

Unfortunately it was not convenient to be in the company of some of my friends in particular Anna and Ludmila, directors of the Art and Music School No2 and the School for Diagnostics and Development but maybe the next time.

The following are the events which did take place most related to our forest project.

1. Revisit of the land being measured for suitability for development and wildlife conservation. Maps and aerial photographs now required.
2. Television interview with the media company in Mozyr – the interview was later broadcast nationally. Offer from the media company to promote our project.
3. Meeting with the Chairman of Chernoybl Regions and Television Controller who offered his help and advice for future developments.
4. Quick visit to the Ecological Centre.
5. Travel to Minsk for discussions with the very wise and experienced Mr. Vladimir Shchasny Chairman of the Belarusian National Commission to UNESCO. Reciprocal greetings passed between our National Commissions and also the regards of Dame Mary Peters extended.
6. Meeting with the Mayor of Narowlya to finalise a more concrete time scale for the official papers to be completed.
7. During the week Sergey appeared to be sitting in the Pentagon surrounded by many mobiles and receiving calls from not only Belarus but Russia and Ukraine.

I did however manage to get some time to myself or rather with several friends who I was delighted to see again.

My statements have now become very hackneyed as I overindulge in the joys of Belarus but it is always a pleasure to feel the warmth of Belarusian welcomes, hospitality and friendship. Now home with much work to do to help to bring this project to fruition.