Press releases

MINSK, 18 February (BelTA) - Yanka Kupala’s works were recited in Belarusian and French during a soiree held in the run-up to the International Mother Language Day at Belarus’ Permanent Mission to UNESCO in Paris, BelTA learned the Belarusian Embassy in France.

The soiree and an exhibition “My Name is Yanka Kupala” were timed to the 500th anniversary of the Belarusian book printing and the 135th anniversary of the birth of Yanka Kupala. During the event, Belarus’ Ambassador to France, Belarus’ Permanent Representative to UNESCO Pavel Latushko underlined that Yanka Kupala is the prophet of the Belarusian revival, and his art was an important milestone in the development of Belarusian literature. The Ambassador noted the symbolism of holding this evening in the run-up to the International Mother Language Day.

Ambassador Pavel Latushko said that the inclusion of the 500th anniversary of the Belarusian book printing on the UNESCO calendar testifies to the international recognition of Belarus’ great contribution to the world's cultural heritage. In the 21st century, there will not be a more meaningful and symbolic date for the historical and cultural heritage of Belarus than the 500th anniversary of book printing.

French books about Yanka Kupala and Yakub Kolas, kept in the library of the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, were showcased during the event.

Speaking at the event was Yelena Leshkovich, Director of the Yanka Kupala State Literature Museum. She spoke about the activity of the museum and the exposition. Representatives of the Belarusian State Music Academy performed songs to Yanka Kupala’s poems.

The event was organized by Belarus’ Permanent Representative Office at the UNESCO, the Yanka Kupala State Literature Museum and the Belarusian State Music Academy. The event was attended by nearly 80 guests.