9 July, Vitebsk /BELTA/. The budget funding for the international arts festival "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk" in 2010 has been increased by almost Br430 million compared to 2009, reaching Br2.5 billion. This was announced today at a press conference by the Minister of Culture of Belarus, Pavel Latushko, as reported by a BELTA correspondent. The increase in allocated funds is due to the new scenography of the Summer Amphitheatre, the minister explained. He expressed confidence that thanks to the latest technologies, the perception of the festival by both spectators and participants will be more vivid. Pavel Latushko acknowledged that there were serious discussions regarding the program of the current festival at the organizing committee meetings. Nevertheless, the decision was made to maintain traditional approaches. These include the Days of Culture of Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, the city of Moscow, the opening and closing galas of the festival, the pop song performers' competition, the children's music competition, and solo concerts by famous performers. A feature of the current festival is the use of an additional concert venue – Victory Square in the regional centre, which will host two concerts, mainly for a youth audience. The minister announced that today, at the grand opening ceremony of the arts festival, the Order of Francysk Skaryna will be presented to our compatriot Yuri Antonov. The awards of the Union State in the field of literature and art for 2009-2010 will also be presented. "The presentation of Belarusian culture within the framework of the festival is expected to be spectacular," said Pavel Latushko. "Belarusian artists will take part in the opening and closing ceremonies of the festival, the Day of the Union State, and, of course, the Day of Belarusian Culture (which will be dedicated to the memory of Vladimir Muliavin)." This year, Vitebsk is hosting over 5,000 participants and guests from 14 countries, with over 500 media representatives from 11 countries accredited. The Minister of Culture expressed gratitude to the leadership of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee and the City Executive Committee for the excellent preparation for the festival. -0-

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