Lukashenko promises to heed to public opinion in matters of retirement age

MINSK (BelTA) – Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has promised that due regard will be paid to public opinion when decisions concerning the retirement age in Belarus are made. The Belarusian leader made the statement at the government conference held on 20 October to discuss topical aspects of the country's development, BelTA has learned.

In his words, today some people are pushing for a decision on the matter. Alexander Lukashenko believes it is for Belarusians to decide whether they need such a change in the near future.

“I told you during the pre-election period that we will have to raise the retirement age. We need to raise it, but people are against this change. This is why the retirement pensions in our country are so low, and this is why we have such a pension fund,” Alexander Lukashenko stressed.

He believes that, in any case, the matter can be decided “via people”. “We should ask their opinion, try to convince them and get their consent,” the Belarusian leader noted. “We will ask for support. If they agree, we will introduce the change. If not, then not.”