"More than two years ago, you entrusted my colleagues and myself with a great task of conducting radical economic reforms under your leadership. You are well aware that we have failed to do many things due to incessant pressure by conservative political circles. I fully realised that, while bearing responsibility for economic reforms ... I would have rather limited levers for influencing the economic situation. However, I hoped that comprehension of our joint responsibility for the country would allow the Cabinet to rally round the President and to pursue the course necessary to stabilise the economy and prevent disaster. To my regret, decisions I did not prepare or categorically disagree with have been adopted all too often recently. The implementation of this agreement (for Belarus to adopt the Russian Rouble) will result in much higher minimum salaries and pensions in Belarus, compared to Russia. I was against this decision, but my protests have not been heard.

"It is also hard to understand the decision to construct a new parliament building. The estimated cost ($500m) is five times larger than federal allocations for culture and art, and constitutes approximately one fifth of the total funds channelled to the social sphere last year. Such a destructive decision was also worked out without my knowledge, and was adopted despite my strongest objections.

"I cannot serve in the government and at the same time be in opposition to it. I cannot be responsible for reforms without having the necessary levers for consistent implementation of an economic policy which I am convinced is correct. Therefore, to my sorrow, I have to reject the post of First Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation. Nevertheless. I assure you that I will firmly support both you and your policy of reforms."