Although Europe has become the new epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic, Belarus is the only country in the continent that gives a damn about it.
The authorities in Belarus have directed the people to continue their daily routines unaffected by the coronavirus.
It is weird. But Belarus is weird from various aspects too as it has taken an entirely distinct response towards the coronavirus compared to its neighbor countries like Ukraine and Russia.
Indeed, Ukraine is about to impose an emergency, while Russia has already closed the schools and colleges. Besides, the mass gatherings and huge crowds are banned in Russia, with all the international flights are suspended.
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On the other hand, if you visit Belarus, you will find it as if nothing has happened to the world. For instance, the borders are open, and the people are going to work. There is hardly any panic in Belarus regarding the coronavirus.
“Don’t be afriad”
Belarussian President Alexandar Lukashenko says, “The country doesn’t require to take any preventive measures against the spread of the coronavirus.”
During his meeting with the Chinese ambassador in the capital, Minsk, he reiterated not to worry as such “incidences are of routine matters.”
Strangely, Belarus has not even closed the cinemas or theatres, nor have they banned the congregations or gatherings.
Besides, it is the only country left in the world not to cancel its football matches, as its premiership is continued unabated. These matches are being broadcasted live to the neighboring Russia whose audience craves it.
Tractors will combat the virus
President Lukashenko said, “Tractor will combat the coronavirus,” and the statement has been the talk of the country, particularly on social media.
He was alluding to the harvest and plowing into the fields with undivided devotion. Although he does not drink himself, he urges people to drink it besides washing hands with it.
I am a non-drinker, but at this time I jokingly say that you should not just wash your hands with vodka, but probably also poison this virus with it [from within]. In terms of pure alcohol, [one should consume] 40-50 grams per day. But not at work!” he warned
However, many Belarussians are apprehensive about whatever is happening around the world.
Many youngsters are taking sick leaves in order to self-isolate themselves.
Various universities and colleges have changed their times, keeping the students’ concern who want to avoid traveling during the rush hours.
Even the people are taking to the streets at Minsk less frequently, and they realize the elderly are more vulnerable.
However, the President of Belarus does not believe the world should take the coronavirus as seriously. He insists that tension and mental pressure are more lethal than the virus. He also directed the security agency of the country to have an eye over those who are creating unfounded fears and rumors.
Coronavirus cases in Belarus
As many as 86 people have been tested positive for the virus in the country, with two reported deaths, which were officially confirmed.
In many ways, Belarus is a weird country. It is the only European country where the death penalty has not been abolished, and now the only European country that does not bother about the coronavirus.
More interesting is the fact that an opposition leader who is known for his anti-government posture agreed with the president on this.
The opposition leader wrote on his Facebook that the president is right in his stance about the coronavirus as if any extreme measure like isolations, or lockdown could lead to economic disruption.
He also said that “The world has been disrupted by this virus, but Belarus is the only country in the world where the government is more concerned about their safety than making popular decisions.”
