New Belarus needs adequate tax system, equal conditions for state and private companies, and capital amnesty, Cichanoŭskaja says

February 23, BPN. New Belarus needs an adequate tax system, equal conditions for public and private companies, and amnesty of capital, said Belarusian democratic leader Sviatlana Cichanoŭskaja at Belarus Business Harbour in Baltics economic forum in Vilnius.

The forum was organized by the Association of Belarusian Business Abroad (ABBA) in partnership with the European Humanities University (EHU).

“We’ve heard many times in Belarus that a strong-handed regime is the foundation of the state. But I believe that the foundation of the state and stable economy is the people’s initiative. Initiative that is encouraged, and not repressed. That is supported, and not killed by endless restrictions, inspections and even unjustified criminal liabilities,” Cichanoŭskaja said.

She noted that small and medium-sized businesses should be able to legalize their capital without fear of prosecution in new Belarus.

“Because we understand that many honest businesses did not want to support the illegitimate regime. Businesses will not be suffocated by extensive taxes,” she added.

Admitting the future challenges, Cichanoŭskaja listed the factors that would help overcome them: the lifting of sanctions, the expansion of the private sector due to economic reforms, the return of talented Belarusians from abroad, the evaluation of public enterprises and major management changes at some of them.

She emphasized that the EU would provide a €3 billion economic assistance package meant to support the reforms in new Belarus. According to Cichanoŭskaja, other democratic countries (US, Canada, UK) and international organizations will also allocate additional funds.

“And I ask entrepreneurs to believe in the future. The future where you can freely grow your business, raise your children in safety, and live a life full of respect, not fear,” Cichanoŭskaja said.