Lukashenka declares 2014 Year of Hospitality

Alyaksandr Lukashenka has, by his presidential edict, declared 2014 to be the Year of Hospitality.

The edict is aimed at developing the tourism industry, creating a modern tourism infrastructure that would capitalize on Belarus` geographical location, natural resources and historic and cultural heritage, and teaching citizens of Belarus to have patriotic pride and respect their Fatherland, according to the presidential press office.

The head of state has tasked the Council of Ministers, the regional executive committees and the Minsk city executive committee with drawing up an action plan to implement the edict.

The edict will help governmental agencies, organizations and citizens to focus their efforts on the development and efficient use of Belarus` tourism potential and on preparations for receiving foreign guests within the framework of various international events, including the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Belarus from the Nazi invaders and the 2014 Ice Hockey World Championship in Minsk, the press office said.

The Year of the Book comes after the Year of Thrift (2013), the Year of the Book (2012), the Year of Enterprise (2011) and the Year of Quality (2010).