Polotsk Regional Executive Committee

The official was asked why the ministry was introducing such a format of work and what exactly the council of geologists would decide on. “This is the first organizational meeting - a new form of work for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection within the framework of the tasks set for the geological industry by the head of state. We have established an organizational structure that includes specialists with experience in mining as well as scholars,” he explained.

The issues for the council to discuss are the work done in 2024 and the tasks for 2025. “We are currently working on the program for 2026-2030,” Viktor Galanov added.

Oil search and exploration is one of these tasks. In Soviet times, these works were carried out for some time, but they were later suspended. The Pripyat Trough is considered to be the main treasure trove of oil raw materials in the country today. “There are 97 fields explored there. only 62 of them are used. It is too early to say that there is an alternative to the Pripyat Trough in Belarus,”  the deputy minister said.

In his words, among the wells explored back in Soviet times there are a number of those that are economically inexpedient to develop because of the difficulties of water-bearing nature. “It is still premature to talk about commercial oil production from them, but thanks to such events as today's, we will discuss these issues together with the specialists of Belorusneft, look for ways and solutions. Perhaps, some of these wells will be put into development,” Viktor Galanov said.