Opinions & Interviews

Expert: Belarus effectively uses cultural heritage for tourism, education, science

An archive photo

MINSK, 16 April (BelTA) – Belarus is committed to using its cultural heritage effectively for tourism, education, and scientific purposes, Secretary-General of the National Commission of the Republic of Belarus for UNESCO Natalya Schasnovich said during the international roundtable session “Preservation and promotion of cultural heritage in the Commonwealth of Independent States” dedicated to the 35th anniversary of the CIS, BelTA has learned.

“When it comes to heritage protection, our country is a reliable partner on the international stage. Belarus has ratified nearly every UNESCO convention relating to culture. We rightly take pride in the World Heritage sites located on our territory and under state protection. Belarus strives to use them effectively for tourism, education, and scientific purposes, as well as to support the economic and social development of the region. Efforts to preserve living heritage, traditions, crafts, and our cultural code, passed down from generation to generation, enjoy strong state support,” she noted.

Natalya Schasnovich emphasized that representatives of CIS member states’ base organizations in the fields of music, art, cinema, museum work, and tourism have gathered for the first time to exchange experience, discuss current trends and best practices, and identify paths for further cooperation. “All our countries have truly unique historical and cultural wealth and priceless intangible living heritage. All of this has been shaped over centuries and today forms the foundation that unites our peoples. Close cooperation in culture and tourism is underway within the CIS, with regular international arts festivals, exhibitions, film and theatre festivals. Cooperation is also realized through direct contacts between cultural institutions, theatres, museums, and creative groups,” the expert added.

“Belarus hosts projects in which representatives of CIS countries actively participate: the Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk, the Festival of National Cultures in Grodno, and the Kupala Night Festival (Alexandria Gathers Friends). The International Film Festival Listapad is held annually,” Natalya Schasnovich said.

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