China-built projects completed in Belarus

Chinese-built swimming and soccer facilities in Belarus have been completed and opened to the public, officials from both countries said, describing them as model Belt and Road projects that underscore deep ties and strategic trust between Beijing and Minsk.

The National Football Stadium was finished in June this year and an international standard Swimming Center in October last year. Both projects were designed and constructed by Chinese companies, and received commendations from Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who has cast them as emblematic of cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Vladimir Pertsov, first deputy head of the administration of Belarusian president, said the two facilities were delivered under the personal attention and promotion of the heads of state of China and Belarus.

Pertsov praised participating Chinese entities for overcoming severe disruptions linked to the COVID-19 pandemic and regional conflicts, saying they demonstrated responsibility and professional standards that "fully showcased the strength and caliber of Chinese enterprises".

He made the remarks at a commendation ceremony in November at the Embassy of Belarus in Beijing. As the projects continue operating, he said, Chinese companies' advanced engineering concepts and high construction standards have helped establish iconic architectural landmarks in Belarus, boosted the country's profile in international sports and provided solid support for the development of Belarusian athletics.

The swimming facility is located in Minsk, with the Beijing Institute of Architectural Design responsible for engineering design and full-process project management. The project was built under World Aquatics rules, while accommodating Belarusian engineering practices and specific local requirements.

Pertsov said it is now Belarus's largest, highest-standard and best-equipped natatorium, capable of hosting top-tier international competitions and supporting high-level training for professional athletes, significantly lifting the country's aquatic sports infrastructure.

The National Football Stadium, another flagship Belt and Road project, sits in Minsk's industrial district.

The roof incorporates decorative materials in 1,860 specifications displaying elements of the Belarusian national flag. The pitch is equipped with automatic drainage, pitch heating, ventilation and intelligent irrigation systems designed to provide optimal conditions for players.

At the stadium's inauguration ceremony in June, Lukashenko said the China-assisted venue blends national traditions with advanced engineering technology.

He described it as the Eastern European country's largest and most modern football stadium, meeting "the world's highest standards", a new landmark for Minsk and a symbol of the solid friendship between Belarus and China.

Officials from both sides have emphasized that the football stadium is a key cooperative project personally supported and driven by the two leaders.

During the Second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, they jointly unveiled the project model. Since the project's inception, they said, it has embodied the deep friendship, close cooperation and high mutual trust between the two countries.

Following completion and opening, the stadium quickly became one of Minsk's most popular urban "check-in" landmarks, drawing large numbers of locals and tourists with its imposing exterior and striking visual impact.

renqi@chinadaily.com.cn