The "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk" Arts Festival serves a noble purpose – strengthening peace and mutual understanding between peoples. This was stated by the President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, on July 13 at the grand opening ceremony of the XXVI International Arts Festival "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk", as reported by a BELTA correspondent.
The "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk" Arts Festival serves a noble purpose – strengthening peace and mutual understanding between peoples. This was stated by the President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, on July 13 at the grand opening ceremony of the XXVI International Arts Festival "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk", as reported by a BELTA correspondent.
"This is a truly landmark event in the life of our country, our Slavic peoples, which vividly reflects the events of recent history. We recall the times when age-old foundations were crumbling in the post-Soviet space and people had no time for art. It was then that we tried to unite all creative forces for a common cause – spiritual revival and the continuation of the best traditions," said Alexander Lukashenko. "Our festival has taken on this high mission. It has become a true symbol of unity for millions of people of goodwill, because it serves a noble purpose – strengthening peace and mutual understanding between peoples, preserving cultural diversity, and supporting talent."
The President noted that with the acquisition of wide fame, the consolidating role of the Vitebsk forum has increased even more. "It fully contributes to constructive interstate dialogue. Any foreign guest who has visited our festival returns to their country as an envoy of peace," noted Alexander Lukashenko.
The Head of State emphasized that the high international status of the festival obliges Belarus in many ways. "It is a kind of mirror of our country's policy in the socio-humanitarian sphere. Therefore, such a variety of art forms and genres is presented here. The level of concerts, exhibitions, and performances, creative meetings is consistently high," stated the Belarusian leader. "An atmosphere of creative freedom and goodwill always prevails here, and objective and impartial judging is guaranteed. Every contestant has the opportunity to showcase their talent and demonstrate the cultural features of their native region, their people."
Alexander Lukashenko is confident that the current festival, held under the motto "Stars over Belarus," will bring many discoveries and serve as an excellent launchpad for young performers. "Slavianski Bazaar" is renowned for its good traditions. One of them is to honour artists whose creative and public activities contribute to strengthening friendship and cooperation between states," the President noted.
This year, the special award "Through Art – to Peace and Mutual Understanding" has been presented to the remarkable singer, People's Artist of Georgia and Russia, Tamara Gverdtsiteli. And for the first time within the opening ceremony, the Grand Prix will be awarded to the winner of the International Children's Music Competition. "I sincerely congratulate the laureates. When renowned idols and very young talents meet on such stages, it is very touching, it is very symbolic. We are witnessing the continuity of bright traditions of stage mastery," stated the head of state. "May this celebration always remain a benchmark of genuine culture, a life-giving source of joy and inspiration."