Lukashenko: Slavs must demonstrate their unity, which has always been evident in critical historical moments

July 11, Vitebsk /BelTA correspondent/. The International Arts Festival "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk" has not lost its main core and essence – the art of the fraternal peoples of Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine, who stood at its origins, and one of its main ideas – to build bridges of friendship between people through art and to promote the preservation of national diversity. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko drew attention to this on July 10 at the festival's opening ceremony, BelTA reports.

July 11, Vitebsk /BelTA correspondent/. The International Arts Festival "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk" is gathering guests from all over the world on Belarusian soil for the 23rd time. Alexander Lukashenko noted that over these years, fashion in artistic trends and styles has changed more than once in the world. "Many projects that initially made a loud statement have sunk into oblivion. But our 'Slavianski Bazaar', which began as a modest song contest, has grown into a real creative Olympics, where representatives of various arts demonstrate their achievements," the President noted.

According to the head of state, the source of the festival's strength and energy is Slavic culture – one of the oldest, most distinctive, and richest on Earth, which has absorbed the traditions of the East and West and carefully preserved the intellectual and spiritual heritage of many generations.

"The group of Slavic peoples is the largest in Europe. And no matter how the fate of specific ethnic groups has unfolded, in critical moments of history, the unity of the Slavs has always manifested itself. This is relevant today. And I am sure that we need to strike these chords of the soul and demonstrate this Slavic unity," Alexander Lukashenko emphasized. "Our ancestors did not see themselves separately, did not seek enmity, but valued true friendship above all else. It is no coincidence that even today people say: 'Good brotherhood is dearer than riches'."

"Slavianski Bazaar" is one of those places where we can reaffirm our aspiration to be together. To sacredly cherish the centuries-old bonds that unite us, based on the commonality of historical paths, the proximity of languages and cultures," the Head of State believes.

According to the President, the echoes of that great spiritual community, which inextricably linked the Slavic peoples, are felt in every masterpiece of any of the national cultures. "All the best we have is common. We value and love Yakub Kolas and Bogdanovich, Shevchenko and Gogol, Pushkin and Dostoevsky. We admire the music of Tchaikovsky, Bortniansky, Moniuszko," said the Head of State. "We, Slavs, value and revere talent. And we do not divide people who possess it into our own and others'."

Alexander Lukashenko noted that this is why the festival is so pleased to see representatives from different continents, countries, and peoples. The project has long gone beyond the scope of just a Slavic forum. Every year it expands its artistic and, importantly, geographical boundaries. These days, representatives from 29 countries will perform on the festival stages, and there will be many young talents, premiere projects, and new programmes.

"The cordiality and hospitality inherent in the Slavs largely determine the unique image of the festival and contribute to its growing popularity in the world. It is a celebration for everyone who makes life more beautiful and kinder with their creativity. For everyone who knows how to appreciate beauty, talent, and originality," the Belarusian leader emphasised.-0-

News of Belarus (BELTA)