MINSK, March 8 (BelTA) — Every year the government takes new steps to increase the social status of mothers and families, President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko said at the National Academic Grand Opera and Ballet Theatre on March 8. The head of state underscored that the strong government policy aimed at protecting motherhood and childhood brings good results. Year after year the birthrate increases in Belarus. Last year more than 90,000 children were born. “It is the most important and tangible achievement of our women, for which you deserve our immense respect and gratitude. Without you there would be no nation,” said Alexander Lukashenko. In Belarus measures have been taken to increase maternity benefits, childhood allowances, financial support for young and large families, with homes built for them and an industry of quality baby food developed. The head of state mentioned the active role of women in many areas. In many things women are ahead of men. “Our women are often more successful and goal-oriented in secondary and higher education than men. They are more inclined to follow a healthy lifestyle. It is the vivid testimony of the progress of the society, its intellectual development,” said the President. Alexander Lukashenko underscored, Belarus has no gender inequality, oppression of women, and infringement of their civil rights. Contrariwise, the influence of women in state administration and adoption of the most important political decisions is expanding. At the renewed stage of the Opera and Ballet Theatre the President conferred an Order of Mother on four mothers of large families. Alexander Lukashenko expressed deep respect and sincere gratitude to all Belarusian women, “for their labour which makes our country a beautiful and pleasant home, for understanding and the readiness to overcome emerging hardships, for trust and support which inspire men to reach noble goals”. “The warmth of mother’s love and care, family happiness, children’s smiles — all of that comes from you,” the President told women.

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