Opinions & Interviews
Lukashenko views sanctions in sport as sign of weakness, fear
MINSK, 5 August (BelTA) - Restrictions and sanctions in international sport is a sign of weakness and fear of the world establishment, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said at the opening ceremony of the 2nd CIS Games in Minsk, BelTA has learned
"We will deliver top-quality Games. This tournament has a great future. This future is in our hands. No matter how hard the world establishment, embittered and powerless, tries to take it away. I am convinced that they also see us now," the head of state said.
He suggested that these people watch, listen and draw conclusions. "You're trying to remove strong competitors from international sport. You want to take away our sports victories. You are killing the spirit and purpose of the Olympic movement. This is a sign of weakness and your fear. This is an attempt to hide behind the iron curtain from the truth of life. This is recognition of the strength of our deepest values, which are shared by the overwhelming majority of people on the planet, including ordinary Europeans and Americans," Aleksandr Lukashenko said.
"Look. Thousands have gathered here. The broadcast is watched by millions. Everyone will see not only our beautiful Belarus, but also the culture of those 20 countries that are represented by leading athletes. You will see the traditions, our heroic history which is shared by all countries of the CIS. You will see that Belarus has a magnificent enchanting nature. Everyone will see modern arenas, strong athletes, exciting competitions and new records, and most importantly - a great international interest in these Games. More than 2,000 athletes from more than 20 countries of different continents have gathered here. No sanctions, no political intrigues will deprive us of this fest. It's impossible. The world is small, interdependent, interconnected. Only madmen are trying to break these ties," the Belarusian leader stressed.
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