Opinions & Interviews

MOGILEV, 1 October (BelTA) – The international forum “Traditional culture as a strategic resource for the society’s sustainable development” is a good platform for creative debates and new ideas, Belarus’ Deputy Culture Minister Vasily Chernik said when speaking at the official opening ceremony of the forum on 12 October, BelTA has learned.

“Traditional culture is an important part of the national culture, a basis of the national identity that strengthens the spiritual bond between the generations and epochs. The forum will become a good platform to discuss the best traditions of the national and world culture, creative discussions and new cultural ideas,” stressed Vasily Chernik.

The country’s experience in preserving and reviving the traditional culture is interesting to the international community. Partaking in the forum are scientists and experts in folklore and traditional culture from 12 countries. “The forum is aimed at developing and strengthening international cultural ties, the exchange of spiritual and cultural values, and also the experience in preserving and updating the intangible cultural heritage. We hope that the forum will elaborate new ideas and approaches in the matters of preserving the cultural heritage, will give rise to new initiatives and projects to develop international cooperation,” noted the deputy minister.

The forum will include an international conference to discuss the song and dance folk heritage, song and dance traditions, the role of cultural and education institutions in the education of the new generation.

The forum will also feature a number of arts and crafts exhibitions, master classes in pottery and willow weaving, a festival of Belarusian music, song and dance, and a wide folklore program.

The forum has been organized by the Belarusian Culture Ministry, Mogilev Oblast Executive Committee and the Mogilev Oblast Center of Folk Art and Cultural and Educational Work.