On July 12, Vitebsk /Olga Bogacheva - BELTA/. The international arts festival "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk" strengthens the fraternal relations between Belarus and Russia. This opinion was expressed today to journalists at the opening ceremony of his own star on the Alley of Laureates of the special award of the President of Belarus "Through Art - to Peace and Mutual Understanding" by People's Artist of Russia Lev Leshchenko, BELTA correspondent reports. "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk" is the only festival in the post-Soviet space where artists come with a sincere desire to share their creativity with the audience and communicate within their circle. It is here, through culture, that the integration of Belarus and Russia takes place. The festival contributes to the preservation and strengthening of fraternal relations between our peoples. This is very great," said Lev Leshchenko. The artist also spoke about his warm feelings for Vitebsk: "I have read a lot about the city, Marc Chagall, I know what tragic consequences the war brought: the city was practically destroyed, a huge number of people died. This heroic, stoic spirit is palpable. I really like Vitebsk, its amazing atmosphere, cleanliness, and the cordiality of its people." The singer expressed sincere words of gratitude for the award received. "I am very touched by today's event," the artist emphasized. At the opening ceremony of the star, Lev Leshchenko could not hide his emotions and, together with the children's group "Forum" of the Vitebsk Culture Center, first sang along and then performed one of his hits, "Solov'inaya Roshcha". Despite spending the night on the train and an early start, the artist looked cheerful, which journalists did not fail to notice, asking him to reveal his secret to looking good. "As my friend Vinokur says, you need to close your mouth, eat less, and move more. And before, as we joked, we had such a diet: more flour and sweets and no movement," Lev Leshchenko replied humorously. His future plans were also not overlooked. The artist admitted that he wants to make a юбилей tour this year in three to four capitals, including Minsk. He has recorded a large album "Unreleased Songs". For now, it is only a gift copy, but it may become available to a wide audience, said Lev Leshchenko. -0-

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