Opinions & Interviews

Belarus’ MPs pass statement on 80th anniversary of Victory in Great Patriotic War

MINSK, 23 April (BelTA) – The National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus has adopted a statement in connection with the 80th anniversary of the Victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945, BelTA has learned.

The parliamentarians addressed the international community in the run-up to the 80th anniversary of the Victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945. “This anniversary is not only a reason to celebrate, but also an important reminder of the value of peace, freedom and human life. The Great Patriotic War was one of the most tragic and heroic periods in world history. It took millions of lives, left deep scars in the hearts of people and changed the future of entire nations. Belarus is a living reminder of those terrible events. Our country was the first to take the crushing blow of the Nazi invaders. Every third resident died at the hands of the occupiers, thousands of population centers were destroyed and burned to the ground. The fascists carried out genocide against the Belarusian people, exterminating them in numerous death camps, experimental laboratories, gas chambers, burning them alive in their homes. They did not spare children, women or the elderly. Every centimeter of Belarusian land is soaked with blood of local residents and defenders of the Fatherland.”

Today, 80 years later, the world is facing new large-scale challenges and threats, including in the field of security. “Conflicts, terrori

sm, economic crises and political disagreements create tensions in international relations, which can lead to irreversible consequences. Attempts to rewrite history, whitewash Nazism, glorify fascists and their accomplices are unacceptable. We, the heirs of the generation of victors, are obliged to defend the historical truth. Preserving the memory of the great feat of the peoples who fought against fascism is the key to preventing the repetition of new large-scale bloody wars and conflicts,” the statement reads.

“The parliaments of all states need to join forces to preserve peace, strengthen international cooperation, maintain dialogue and good-neighborly relations, and find compromises even in the most difficult situations. Peace is not just about not having war, but about living in security and harmony. Having experienced the horrors of war, Belarus has always pushed for and will continue to push for the political and diplomatic solution of conflicts, for strengthening international security and mutually respectful dialogue between states. We believe that only through joint efforts can we overcome global challenges and ensure sustainable development for all peoples. On this significant day, we urge you to remember what unites us - the striving for peace, justice and prosperity. Let the sacred memory of the exceptional feat, courage and heroism of the Soviet people and other nations who fought against fascism inspire us to work for a better future where there is no place for wars and suffering. Let us preserve peace for our children and grandchildren!” the statement concluded.