On December 8, Vitebsk /Olga Bogacheva - BELTA/. The International Student Slavic Forum in Vitebsk will serve to strengthen the relations between Russia and Belarus. This opinion was expressed today at a press conference dedicated to the opening of the forum by Olga Vasilyeva, Deputy Governor of the Smolensk Region, reports BELTA correspondent. "This forum will become a good starting platform for the implementation of joint projects by the youth of Russia and Belarus, for showcasing their talents, scientific and sports achievements. It will serve to develop and strengthen the relations between our countries," said Olga Vasilyeva. She emphasized that the Union State countries are linked by long-standing close relations in economic, cultural and other spheres, including education, and establishing closer communication among the younger generation can make this process more intensive and effective. "We would like the youth, on whom the future fate of our countries depends, to not only share their achieved results in science, education, and sports during the events of the International Student Slavic Forum today, but also to exchange experiences more closely," concluded the Deputy Governor of the Smolensk Region. She expressed hope that new participants from the regions of Russia and Ukraine will join the forum over time. "Our common history gives us a unique opportunity to move forward together," added Olga Vasilyeva. The I International Student Slavic Forum is held with the aim of strengthening the unity of Slavic peoples, preserving the system of Slavic values, and enhancing cooperation in scientific, educational, cultural, and sports activities. Today, its first official event is taking place at the "Vitebsk" Concert Hall – a large concert-presentation, featuring the management and creative youth of Polotsk State University (PSU), Vitebsk State Technological University (VSTU), Vitebsk State University named after P.M. Masherov, Vitebsk Academy of Veterinary Medicine, Vitebsk State Medical University, Smolensk State University, Smolensk Medical Academy, and Smolensk Academy of Physical Culture, Sports and Tourism. Greetings to the forum participants were also sent by Oles Honchar Dnipro National University (Ukraine), whose representatives could not come to Vitebsk.