The Rosyevs found their new home in Pechy. The couple works, raises two children, and has started their own business. We spoke with the head of the family about why they chose Belarus, what surprised Boris, and what plans they have for the future.

• Juma, why did you decide to move specifically to Belarus?

– If we talk about our connection with Belarus, perhaps we should start from afar. My wife Gultach and I studied at the same school, she was a year younger than me. In our circle there were many friends from Russian-speaking families. We talked, became friends, adopted some traditions, and gradually the Russian language became our means of communication. When the question of moving to another country arose, we wanted to make a correct and thoughtful choice. I personally visited China, the UAE, Turkey, Russia, so I could compare different countries. In the end, we came to the conclusion that we are closer in mentality to a Russian-speaking country – Juma told us. – After the pandemic and the coronavirus, I decided to visit Belarus simply out of curiosity. I stopped in Minsk and stayed here for about a week. During this time I tried to figure out various practical matters: I asked about renting housing, the possibility of buying real estate, a car, commercial premises. One important factor for us was that in Belarus you can drive a car with a driver's license obtained in Turkmenistan. Gradually we realized that Belarus suits us, and we made the decision to move with our whole family here.

• Why was the choice made specifically on Pechy?

– Borisov had known us for a little while already. Before, we would come here to visit acquaintances. But we finally settled down after visiting Pechy. We really liked the location of the microdistrict, the nature, the large amount of greenery. Many things here were unfamiliar to us. For example, a squirrel in a tree near the house is a true exotic! There are few cars here, but it is calm. At the same time, convenient and accessible transport. For a family this is very important.

• What do you like most about Belarus today, especially Boris?

– Belarus is very nice to us. We try to travel around the country as a family. We love the ski resort in Logoysk, Minsk, we visited the Nesvizh and Lidl castles, the zoo, the open-air railway technology museum in Baranovich. Sometimes we go to stand-up comedy in Minsk. Boris likes to walk along the ecotrope. Often we stay at stadiums, go to football matches.

But above all, I would like to note that we saw respectful treatment toward representatives of different confessions. Orthodox Christians, Catholics, Muslims – everyone has the opportunity to freely practice their faith.

• If we compare Belarus and Turkmenistan, what differences did you notice first in everyday life?

– We like the Belarusian 5/2 work schedule, when two days a week can be devoted to family and rest. We like the great variety of dairy and meat products – there really is

We were met very warmly. Neighbors and colleagues offered advice. They suggested where to go on weekends, where to take the car for service, how to handle utility issues. Recently they replaced the windows and doors in our apartment. While removing construction waste and old fixtures to the stairwell, we met the neighbors and asked if their work might cause trouble if it runs long and drilling becomes necessary. They apologized for the noise, but they responded understandingly, which was very pleasant.

Do you recommend moving here?